Ranger Raptor: 37-Inch Tires - The Ultimate Guide

Alright guys, let's talk about something that gets a lot of Ranger Raptor owners, like really excited: 37-inch tires. If you're looking to take your already awesome Ford Ranger Raptor to the next level of off-road capability and serious head-turning appeal, then you've probably already considered this upgrade. But before you jump in, there's a bunch of stuff you gotta know. This article will break down everything you need to know about fitting 37-inch tires on your Ranger Raptor, from the benefits and the challenges to the specific modifications you might need, and even some recommendations to help you make the best decision for your truck. So, buckle up, because we're about to get tire deep into this!

Why 37-Inch Tires? The Awesome Advantages

So, why bother with such a massive tire upgrade? Well, the advantages are pretty compelling, especially if you're into serious off-roading. First off, 37-inch tires dramatically increase ground clearance. This is probably the biggest and most immediate benefit. More ground clearance means you can clear larger obstacles, like rocks, logs, and deep ruts, without getting hung up or bottoming out. This opens up a whole new world of trails and adventures that were previously off-limits with the stock tire size. Think of it like this: your Raptor is already a beast, but with 37s, it becomes a monster truck that's ready to dominate any terrain you throw at it.

Secondly, larger tires improve approach, break-over, and departure angles. These angles are crucial for off-road performance because they determine how easily your truck can navigate steep inclines, crest hills, and descend challenging descents without scraping the front or rear bumpers. With 37s, these angles improve significantly, making your Raptor even more capable of tackling extreme off-road situations. You will feel safer and more confident going over obstacles.

Thirdly, 37-inch tires provide a larger contact patch. This means more rubber is on the ground, which translates to increased grip and improved traction, especially in loose or uneven terrain. More grip equals better acceleration, braking, and overall control. This is huge when you're crawling over rocks, navigating muddy trails, or tackling challenging inclines where every bit of traction counts.

Finally, let's not forget the look. Let's be honest, 37-inch tires make the Ranger Raptor look incredibly aggressive and impressive. It's a visual upgrade that instantly transforms the truck's appearance, giving it a more imposing and capable stance. This is a head-turner, and your Raptor will definitely stand out from the crowd. So, while the performance benefits are significant, there's no denying that 37s add a serious dose of visual appeal that many Raptor owners crave.

The Realities: Challenges and Considerations

Now, before you rush out and buy a set of 37s, let's talk about the other side of the coin. Fitting these massive tires isn't as simple as swapping out the old ones. There are several challenges and considerations you need to be aware of. It's not always a straightforward process, and if you're not prepared, it can lead to some headaches and potentially damage your truck.

Firstly, clearance issues. The stock Ranger Raptor wasn't designed for tires this big, and they will likely rub against the wheel wells, especially during suspension compression or when turning. This means you'll almost certainly need to perform modifications like a lift kit and potentially other adjustments to create enough space for the tires to move freely.

Secondly, performance impacts. While larger tires provide benefits off-road, they can also affect on-road performance. The increased rolling resistance of 37s can lead to reduced acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and potentially affect braking performance. The engine will have to work harder to turn the larger tires, and the truck might feel a bit sluggish compared to the stock setup. This can be compensated with re-gearing.

Thirdly, steering and suspension modifications. The increased weight and size of 37s put extra stress on the steering system and suspension components. You may need to upgrade the ball joints, tie rods, and other suspension parts to handle the added load and ensure the truck's durability and handling characteristics aren't compromised.

Fourthly, re-gearing your axles. This is a critical consideration if you want to maintain your truck's original performance. The stock gearing is designed for the stock tire size, and when you install larger tires, the effective gear ratio changes. This makes the engine work harder, reduces power, and can negatively impact acceleration and fuel economy. Re-gearing involves replacing the gears in your axles to restore the original gear ratio, which will help regain the truck's performance.

Fifthly, tire choice and wheel selection. Not all 37-inch tires are created equal. The weight, tread pattern, and construction of the tire will affect on-road and off-road performance. Choosing the right tires for your driving style and the terrain you frequent is crucial. You'll also need to consider the wheel size, offset, and backspacing to ensure proper fitment and avoid rubbing issues.

Finally, cost. This upgrade isn't cheap. The cost of the tires themselves is just the beginning. You'll also need to factor in the cost of the lift kit, installation, any necessary modifications, and potentially re-gearing. It's a significant investment, so you need to carefully consider your budget and the long-term benefits before committing to this upgrade.

Modifications You'll Likely Need

So, what exactly do you need to do to fit 37-inch tires on your Ranger Raptor? Here's a rundown of the most common modifications:

• Lift Kit: This is almost a must. A lift kit raises the truck's ride height, providing the necessary clearance for the larger tires. There are various lift kit options available, including leveling kits, suspension lift kits, and coilover kits. The lift height needed will depend on the tire size and the level of off-roading you plan to do. A minimum of a 2-inch lift is usually needed, but some owners go with 3-4 inches for added clearance.
• Wheel Spacers or Wheels with the Correct Offset: To further improve clearance, you might need wheel spacers or wheels with the correct offset. These move the wheels outward, away from the suspension components and wheel wells. This helps to prevent rubbing and allows the tires to articulate more freely.
• Fender Trimming or Modifications: Even with a lift kit and wheel spacers, you might need to trim or modify the fenders to eliminate any rubbing issues. This often involves trimming the plastic fender flares or, in some cases, modifying the metal fenders. This ensures the tires don't rub against the fenders during suspension compression or turning.
• Re-gearing: As mentioned earlier, re-gearing is highly recommended to restore the truck's performance and compensate for the larger tires. This involves changing the gear ratio in the front and rear axles to match the new tire size. The specific gear ratio you need will depend on your tire size and driving style. Consult with a qualified mechanic to determine the best gear ratio for your setup.
• Bumpers Modification: In some extreme cases, you may have to upgrade your bumpers or remove them for better clearances.
• Steering and Suspension Upgrades: To handle the added stress from the larger tires, you might want to upgrade the ball joints, tie rods, and other suspension components. This will improve the truck's durability, handling, and overall performance. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty components designed for off-road use.

Tire Recommendations for Your Raptor

Choosing the right 37-inch tires can be overwhelming, so here are a few popular and well-regarded options for your Ranger Raptor:

• BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2: These are a classic choice, known for their excellent all-around performance. They offer a good balance of on-road comfort, off-road traction, and durability. They're a great choice if you're looking for a versatile tire that can handle a variety of terrains.
• Falken Wildpeak AT3W: Another excellent all-terrain option, the Wildpeak AT3W offers outstanding value and performance. They provide excellent traction in various conditions, including snow and mud. They are also known for their long tread life and quiet on-road ride.
• Nitto Ridge Grappler: If you're looking for a more aggressive look and performance, the Ridge Grappler is a great choice. These hybrid tires combine the benefits of an all-terrain tire with the aggressive styling of a mud-terrain tire. They offer excellent off-road traction and a distinctive appearance. They also provide a comfortable and quiet on-road ride.
• Toyo Open Country M/T: For those who prioritize off-road performance, the Open Country M/T is a top-tier mud-terrain tire. They offer aggressive tread patterns, excellent grip, and exceptional durability in mud, rocks, and other challenging terrains. Keep in mind that mud-terrain tires tend to be noisier on the road and may compromise fuel economy. It's a trade-off that is worth it for the performance.
• Goodyear Wrangler MT/R with Kevlar: These tires are built tough, with Kevlar-reinforced sidewalls for extra puncture resistance. They offer excellent traction in mud and rocks and are known for their durability. The MT/R is a great choice if you're looking for a tire that can withstand the rigors of serious off-roading.

Making the Decision: Is It Right for You?

So, after all this information, is fitting 37-inch tires the right upgrade for your Ranger Raptor? Here's a quick summary to help you decide:

Consider it if: You are very serious about off-roading, you want a more aggressive look, you're willing to invest in the necessary modifications and you understand the potential performance trade-offs.

Maybe reconsider if: Your budget is limited, you primarily use your truck on the road, you're not comfortable with modifications, or you're concerned about the potential impact on fuel economy and on-road performance.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your driving style and the terrain you'll be tackling, and then make the decision that's right for you. If you're ready to take your Ranger Raptor to the next level of off-road capability and style, then 37-inch tires can be an amazing upgrade. Just make sure you do your research, plan accordingly, and have fun enjoying your bad-ass Ranger Raptor! Good luck and happy trails, guys!