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Can you fit 33 inch tires on a stock Silverado?

Yes, it is possible to fit 33-inch tires on a stock Silverado, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. The stock suspension and wheel well clearance on a Silverado may not be able to accommodate 33-inch tires without modifications.


Factors to Consider


When installing larger tires on a Silverado, you'll need to evaluate a few key factors:



  • Wheel Well Clearance: The stock Silverado wheel wells may not have enough clearance to fit 33-inch tires without rubbing. This can cause damage to the tires and suspension components.

  • Suspension Lift: To properly fit 33-inch tires, you may need to install a suspension lift kit to provide additional clearance and prevent rubbing.

  • Gearing and Speedometer Calibration: Larger tires will affect your Silverado's gearing and speedometer accuracy. You may need to recalibrate the speedometer or install a gear change to maintain proper performance.

  • Fender Modifications: Depending on the specific tire and wheel combination, you may need to modify the fenders to prevent rubbing during full suspension travel.


It's important to carefully research and plan any tire and suspension modifications to ensure they are compatible with your Silverado and meet all legal requirements in your area.


Installation Process


If you decide to install 33-inch tires on your stock Silverado, the process typically involves the following steps:



  1. Measure the available wheel well clearance and determine the maximum tire size that can be accommodated without modifications.

  2. Install a suspension lift kit, if necessary, to provide additional clearance for the larger tires.

  3. Choose a tire and wheel combination that fits within the available space and meets your performance and aesthetic requirements.

  4. Carefully install the new tires and wheels, ensuring proper alignment and torque specifications.

  5. Recalibrate the speedometer and odometer to account for the larger tire size.

  6. Test the vehicle's handling and performance to ensure the modifications are safe and effective.


Remember, modifying your Silverado's suspension and tires can have a significant impact on its handling, braking, and overall performance. It's essential to consult with a professional mechanic or off-road specialist to ensure the modifications are done safely and correctly.

How big of tires can I fit on my Chevy 1500 Silverado?


On a stock suspension, you can generally fit up to a 33-inch tire, with sizes like 285/70R17 being a common maximum without rubbing. With a leveling kit, you can typically fit larger tires, such as 305/55R20 (which converts to about 33.2′′33.2 double prime33.2′′ tall), while a lift kit will allow for even bigger sizes. 
Stock suspension

  • 33-inch tires: Many owners can fit up to 33-inch diameter tires, such as a 285/70R17, without any modifications. 
  • Minor modifications: A small tire is less likely to rub than a wider one, so be sure to check for clearance when turning and over bumps. 

With a leveling kit
  • Wider wheels: If you add a leveling kit, you can typically fit larger tires, often around 33 inches or slightly taller, with wider wheels like a 9-inch with a zero offset.
  • Tire size example: A common setup is a 305/55R20 tire, which is about 33.2′′33.2 double prime33.2′′ in diameter. 

With a lift kit
  • Larger tires: A lift kit allows for bigger tires, with sizes up to 35 inches being possible with a 6-inch lift. 
  • Tire size examples: Depending on the lift size, you can fit a 33-inch tire on a 10-inch wide wheel or a 35-inch tire with a 6-inch lift. 

Other factors to consider
  • Tire width: Wider tires are more likely to rub, so be sure to check for clearance and avoid going too wide with your setup. 
  • Wheel offset: The offset of your wheels can also affect the fitment of your tires. A lower offset will push the wheels out farther, which can cause them to rub more easily. 
  • Vehicle year and trim: The specific year and trim level of your Silverado will affect the maximum tire size you can fit. Consult your owner's manual or a tire professional for the most accurate information. 



Will 33 inch tires fit on a stock Silverado?


Yeah. Stock is basically 33s anyways.



How much lift do I need for 33 inch tires in Silverado?


A 2 to 4-inch leveling kit is typically sufficient for 33-inch tires on a Silverado, but a full 4-inch suspension lift provides more clearance and is recommended for wider tires or those with a negative wheel offset to avoid rubbing. Some models may fit 33-inch tires with no lift if they are stock, while others might need minor trimming, especially if using wide wheels with a negative offset. 
Recommended lift sizes for 33-inch tires 

  • 2 to 4-inch leveling kit: This is the most common setup for 33-inch tires on newer Silverados, especially with stock-width or slightly wider wheels. A 2-inch level can work well, but a 2.5 or 3-inch level is often a safer bet to minimize rubbing. 
  • 4 to 6-inch suspension lift: A taller lift is ideal for 33-inch tires, especially if they are wide or if you are using wheels with a negative offset. This provides the most clearance for off-roading and daily driving without rubbing, and it also makes fitting even larger tires (like 35s) easier in the future. 

Factors to consider
  • Wheel offset: Wheels with a negative offset will push the tires further out, increasing the likelihood of rubbing. A leveling kit alone may not be enough to clear wide wheels with a negative offset, and you may need a lift or trimming to avoid rubbing. 
  • Tire width: Narrower 33-inch tires are more likely to fit with a smaller lift or leveling kit. Wider tires, such as 12.50-inch wide tires, are more likely to cause rubbing and may require a taller lift or modifications. 
  • Model year and trim: Some Silverado models come with 33-inch tires from the factory and may not need a lift. For example, some 2021+ 1500s have 33-inch tires stock and may only need a 2-inch level, while older models may require more modification. 
  • Modifications: You may need to perform minor modifications to fit 33-inch tires, such as trimming the plastic fender liner or adjusting the bumper to avoid rubbing. 



Will 33x12.5 fit stock silverado 1500?


No, 33x12.5 tires will likely not fit a stock Silverado 1500 without some rubbing, especially at full steering lock. While a stock, newer body-style Silverado has more room due to rounded wheel wells, a lift or leveling kit is generally required for a proper fit to prevent rubbing on the upper control arm and body.
 
What to expect with a stock suspension

  • Rubbing: You will likely experience light rubbing against the upper control arm at full lock, and possibly against the body or fender liner with a wider 12.5-inch tire. 
  • Body style matters: Newer Silverado models (2019+) have more clearance than older, squared-off wheel wells. 
  • Wheel offset: The wheel's offset plays a significant role. A more aggressive offset (negative) can increase the likelihood of rubbing. 

Solutions to fit 33x12.5 tires
  • Install a leveling kit: A 2-inch to 2.5-inch leveling kit is a common and effective solution to create enough clearance and prevent rubbing. 
  • Add a lift kit: A lift kit will provide more clearance and is the best option for preventing rubbing. 
  • Consider smaller tires: If you don't want to modify your suspension, consider 33x10.5 tires instead, as they will have a much lower chance of rubbing on a stock suspension. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.