Jeep CJ-5 biggest tire size: stock and lifted
The biggest tire owners run on a Jeep CJ-5 at every lift height, with the trimming it takes, the wheel specs you need and the lift kits that get you there.
In a Jeep-CJ.com thread on stock CJs, members (one running a '79 CJ-5) put 31-inch tires as the safe maximum: one says '31's without rubbing,' and another says 32s rub the rear wheel wells. A little trimming can make 32s fit, but there isn't much to trim ahead of the rear wheels, and most doubt 33s will fit. Old springs sag, so 31s may be the practical limit. Wide tires may need wheels with less backspacing to clear the springs and fenders at full lock.
Biggest Jeep CJ-5 tire at every lift
| LIFT | BIGGEST TIRE | WHAT IT TAKES |
|---|---|---|
| Stock | 31x10.50R15 | Owners call 31 in the practical ceiling and 30x9.50s a known-good fit; one long-time owner ran 32x11.50s on stock springs with minor rubbing. Test-fit, since actual diameters vary |
| 2.5 in | 32–33 in | A 2.5 in spring lift plus 3/4 in shackles runs 32s without trouble; 33s fit until the suspension stuffs. Narrow-track CJs need the steering stops reset or the tires hit the leaf springs |
| 4 in | 33x12.50R15 | Usually with flares and trimmed rear wheel openings; 33–35s generally mean cutting the rear openings and revisiting the bump stops |
Jeep CJ-5 wheel and tire specs
| Factory tire sizes | 225/75R15 (1980, P-metric equivalent) |
|---|---|
| Bolt pattern | 5x139.7 (5x5.5") |
| Center bore | 108 mm |
| Lug thread | 1/2"-20 |
Fitment comes from owners and specialists; wheel width, offset, trimming and bump stops change what fits. Check clearance at full lock and full flex before you buy. Some links are affiliate links.