Bigger Rims On Rx300

[TunedRX300]

Anyone has changed RX300 rims to 17" or 18", tires to 235/45/17 or 245/40/18? I am thinking of getting lighter and bigger rims but want to make sure they will fit.

I tried to lift the spare tire and wheel, must be 40-45 lbs just by feel. I know spare rim is steel but those 4 alloy rims are not that much better...so much dead weight that RX300 needs to pull.

[wwest]

Immediately upon purchase I upgraded my 01 AWD RX to 17x8 wheels and michelin cross terrain tires. Installed 1.5" wheel spacers all around so the rear suspension no longer interferes with wide® tire and I can, and have, used snowchains safely, on the REAR ONLY!

[TunedRX300]

Nice, I probably won't go for 8, just 7 or 7.5 is fine. Do you mind to tell me the maker of those rims you bought? Thanks

[wwest]

RH

[TunedRX300]

Thanks, I will get 245/55/18 and 5Zigen lightweight 18x7.5 rims (18.5 lbs). They should not rub in the back.

[wwest]

Should not rub in the back.....

Best check first, very tight clearance even with OEM.

[TunedRX300]

Thanks. I will buy two and if they rub in the back, I will use them in the front and order 235 tires for the rear.

[wwest]

NO!

There is a CAUTION warning in your owners manual regarding having greater roadbed traction in the front vs the rear. With FWD or front torque biased AWD (like the RX) it can be extremely hazardous to have more grip in the front than in the rear.

That's why NO tire shop will install studs only on the front and now the rear, liability simply too great.