5.2” backspace with Lifts. Does it rub?

[mx5red]

I’ve been reading a lot on here and looks like almost all aftermarket lifts recommend around 4.5” of backspace in order not to rub on the aftermarket control arms. Stock Mopar arms have a bend to accommodate backspace, that’s why Mopar and AEV (who still utilize stock control arms) are ok with stock (6.2”) or AEV (5.7”) wheels.

still, plenty of people rock AEV or other 5-5.2” backspace wheels.

so is there really not much rubbing on control arms with say 5.2” backspace, and an aftermarket lift?
I really like a couple wheels with that backspace, but am also planning ahead on lift and would go with something besides Mopar arms. So I don’t want to order wheels that will rub on a later lift.

Was thinking either Quadratec machined Hard Rock (5.2”), or going full bore like a Fuel Rebel (4.5”) or Teraflex Nomad (4.75”).
I’d rather have less poke than that though Plus I love the Hard Rocks the most!

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[mx5red]

Bump

 

[Gremlinsteve]

I have 5.2 bs wheels on my jt using a 35/12.50/17 tire
No rubbing at all

 

[Gremlinsteve]

Another pic

 

[mx5red]

@Clayton Off Road do you think a 5.2” backspace will rub with some 35s or 37s on Rubicon axles?
I know you’ve recommended 5” or less but wondering if you’ve heard specifically of rubbing with 5.2”.
Thanks

 

[Aberk]

My AEV Pintlers (5.77" BS) rub on the lower control arms of my 3.5 Clayton Overland lift with 37x12.5 R17 Nitto Ridge Grapplers. I think a 35 with 5.2" would clear, but 37 may still rub.

 

[rob_o]

I have 3.96 or -20 8.5" wide wheels with 40x13.5 R17 and have zero rubbing lock to lock with a 4.5" inch lift

I wouldn't go less than 4.75

 

[Clayton Off Road]

@Clayton Off Road do you think a 5.2” backspace will rub with some 35s or 37s on Rubicon axles?
I know you’ve recommended 5” or less but wondering if you’ve heard specifically of rubbing with 5.2”.
Thanks

Most likely not, but if there was any rubbing it would probably be very minimal!

 

[Renegade]

@Clayton Off Road do you think a 5.2” backspace will rub with some 35s or 37s on Rubicon axles?
I know you’ve recommended 5” or less but wondering if you’ve heard specifically of rubbing with 5.2”.
Thanks

I have 5.2" backspacing (+11 offset) Quadratec Recon wheels and 37" ridge Grapplers. I've just recently switched to Clayton lower front arms (from crappy Rough Country adjustable arms), and do have very slight rubbing at full lock. That said, it is so minor that I'm not concerned with it. The Clayton Overland Plus arms are excellent!

 

[mx5red]

Thanks everybody!
I think that answered my question.

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