two sets of wheels?

[Gecko123]

I have a 2006 4runner, Limited, so the wheels are 18". Currently I have Michelin Latitude tours on all 5 wheels (includes spare). Where I live we may get the occasional snow fall. I like my Latitudes as they are very quite but for snow, they are not the best.

Anyway, my question is, if I plan to get a set of wheels for snow tires.
1. Would you recommend a set of 5 wheels (one for the spare as well). Do people normally replace the spare as well?
2. Can I put 16 or 17", I assume I can as the SR5 are smaller wheel sizes
3. Where's the best place to buy stock wheels. Or wheels that look stock (nothing flashy)

Any other ideas?

What do you guys do for those who have an extra set of wheels for snow tires
thanks

 

[JMST4R]

I have a 2006 4runner, Limited, so the wheels are 18". Currently I have Michelin Latitude tours on all 5 wheels (includes spare). Where I live we may get the occasional snow fall. I like my Latitudes as they are very quite but for snow, they are not the best.

Anyway, my question is, if I plan to get a set of wheels for snow tires.
1. Would you recommend a set of 5 wheels (one for the spare as well). Do people normally replace the spare as well?
2. Can I put 16 or 17", I assume I can as the SR5 are smaller wheel sizes
3. Where's the best place to buy stock wheels. Or wheels that look stock (nothing flashy)

Any other ideas?

What do you guys do for those who have an extra set of wheels for snow tires
thanks

I'll help you out here, buddy. First off, your 18's are a pain. Tires are WAYYY more expensive for them, and it can even be tricky to find decent traction tires in a size that you can use, so here's what you do:
1. Don't replace your spare. Yeah, it'll be a different size, and yadda yadda yadda, but it's sole purpose is to get you to a tire shop nearby where it can be fixed. Most new cars have those 'donut' spares, which can only be driven for like 50 miles, at a max of 45mph. You'll be much safer to go much further and faster, even on a mismatched spare. Even in inclement weather, as long as you've got 3 good ones, and 4WD, you'll be fine to get around, even through the snow.
2. You've got a limited, so you've got the bigger brakes than the SR5. This said, you can't put on anything smaller than a 17". If you really want to stay stock(ish), find a set of used Sport wheels (which are 17's to also fit the same brakes you have), or even a set of 17" FJ wheels. Though the wheels are only an inch smaller than what you have now, your tire choices will be far greater, and less expensive with smaller wheels. There are a million tire threads on here, so look into those for what you may want. I know my next set will be BFG All-Terrain T/A's, as they're cheap, quiet, 60k warranty, work excellent in the snow/mud (my brother has them on his Titan), and you can buy them anywhere (Costco, Tire Rack, America's, etc).
3. For stock wheels, try a recycler near you if you can find one. There is also a used parts forum on here, as well as the multiple FJ forums, as well as the ever-so-popular eBay. If you're fine with aftermarket, look online at what you want, and then order locally, as they'll usually price match and mount tires for cheap too.

Personally, I would love an extra set of winter wheels and tires, but I don't want to spend the cash on that just yet. For you though, it makes sense, because I know your Limited wheels with tires don't work well in the snow. The good news is, you can keep your wheels and tires for the summer, and make everything last a really long time.

 

[Gecko123]

I'll help you out here, buddy. First off, your 18's are a pain. Tires are WAYYY more expensive for them, and it can even be tricky to find decent traction tires in a size that you can use, so here's what you do:
1. Don't replace your spare. Yeah, it'll be a different size, and yadda yadda yadda, but it's sole purpose is to get you to a tire shop nearby where it can be fixed. Most new cars have those 'donut' spares, which can only be driven for like 50 miles, at a max of 45mph. You'll be much safer to go much further and faster, even on a mismatched spare. Even in inclement weather, as long as you've got 3 good ones, and 4WD, you'll be fine to get around, even through the snow.
2. You've got a limited, so you've got the bigger brakes than the SR5. This said, you can't put on anything smaller than a 17". If you really want to stay stock(ish), find a set of used Sport wheels (which are 17's to also fit the same brakes you have), or even a set of 17" FJ wheels. Though the wheels are only an inch smaller than what you have now, your tire choices will be far greater, and less expensive with smaller wheels. There are a million tire threads on here, so look into those for what you may want. I know my next set will be BFG All-Terrain T/A's, as they're cheap, quiet, 60k warranty, work excellent in the snow/mud (my brother has them on his Titan), and you can buy them anywhere (Costco, Tire Rack, America's, etc).
3. For stock wheels, try a recycler near you if you can find one. There is also a used parts forum on here, as well as the multiple FJ forums, as well as the ever-so-popular eBay. If you're fine with aftermarket, look online at what you want, and then order locally, as they'll usually price match and mount tires for cheap too.

Personally, I would love an extra set of winter wheels and tires, but I don't want to spend the cash on that just yet. For you though, it makes sense, because I know your Limited wheels with tires don't work well in the snow. The good news is, you can keep your wheels and tires for the summer, and make everything last a really long time.

Thanks. I will check into that option.

 

[Gecko123]

I'll help you out here, buddy. First off, your 18's are a pain. Tires are WAYYY more expensive for them, and it can even be tricky to find decent traction tires in a size that you can use, so here's what you do:
1. Don't replace your spare. Yeah, it'll be a different size, and yadda yadda yadda, but it's sole purpose is to get you to a tire shop nearby where it can be fixed. Most new cars have those 'donut' spares, which can only be driven for like 50 miles, at a max of 45mph. You'll be much safer to go much further and faster, even on a mismatched spare. Even in inclement weather, as long as you've got 3 good ones, and 4WD, you'll be fine to get around, even through the snow.
2. You've got a limited, so you've got the bigger brakes than the SR5. This said, you can't put on anything smaller than a 17". If you really want to stay stock(ish), find a set of used Sport wheels (which are 17's to also fit the same brakes you have), or even a set of 17" FJ wheels. Though the wheels are only an inch smaller than what you have now, your tire choices will be far greater, and less expensive with smaller wheels. There are a million tire threads on here, so look into those for what you may want. I know my next set will be BFG All-Terrain T/A's, as they're cheap, quiet, 60k warranty, work excellent in the snow/mud (my brother has them on his Titan), and you can buy them anywhere (Costco, Tire Rack, America's, etc).
3. For stock wheels, try a recycler near you if you can find one. There is also a used parts forum on here, as well as the multiple FJ forums, as well as the ever-so-popular eBay. If you're fine with aftermarket, look online at what you want, and then order locally, as they'll usually price match and mount tires for cheap too.

Personally, I would love an extra set of winter wheels and tires, but I don't want to spend the cash on that just yet. For you though, it makes sense, because I know your Limited wheels with tires don't work well in the snow. The good news is, you can keep your wheels and tires for the summer, and make everything last a really long time.

So if I want 17" Wheels from 4th Gen 4runners, is that correct? Any particular year, that I need to focus on? I dont want to purchase the wrong set. Thanks

 

[CJ3Flyr]

So if I want 17" Wheels from 4th Gen 4runners, is that correct? Any particular year, that I need to focus on? I dont want to purchase the wrong set. Thanks

Correct... Any year 4th gen is fine and you DO need the 17" to clear the brakes. If searching for slightly used rims Tacoma rims are the same lug pattern/offset as well and broadens your options a bit.

 

[M1911]

I picked up a nearly new set of 17" 4Runner aluminum wheels for $400 delivered. I put snows on them. I don't worry about the spare.

Check out forum classifieds (here, an FJ forum, and the Toyota 120 forum) for used wheels. I'd stay with aluminum wheels. I did 16" Tacoma wheels for several years, but the ride sucked -- I think it was the extra unsprung weight from the heavy steel wheels.

 

[Gecko123]

If I get a new set of rims for snow, that would be a new set of tire pressure sensors. ouch.

 

[webby]

... 2. You've got a limited, so you've got the bigger brakes than the SR5
... find a set of used Sport wheels ...

Correct me if I'm wrong (and perhaps I am), but I believe that I have read on this forum that some Limiteds have the larger brakes, and some do not, that only the Sport Edition all have the larger brakes.

Some of the SR5's have 17" wheels, for example, my SR5 4WD has OEM 17" wheels. You can usually find 17" SR5 wheels pretty reasonably in any major population area on Craigslist.

Good luck!

 

[inscarguy]

i have a limited and it has the bigger brakes so you will need the sport or the older limited rims to work.

i have a suggestion. i have heard great reviews about the michelin ms/2's. they are quiet, have top reviews in the snow and have a low rolling resistence so they are better on gas.

if you are serious about getting another set why not just get a set of tires. hers why, you will spend at least 4-500.00 on rims and the same if not more on tires. the shop near me will do the michelins for example installed for 810.00. now you have a year round tire. if you want to just get a winter set get the 18" tires and swap them every season. it would probably be more cost effective either way. even buying a set of 18's and swapping them each season would be cheaper than buying rims, tires and TPM sensors.

 

[Gecko123]

i have a limited and it has the bigger brakes so you will need the sport or the older limited rims to work.

i have a suggestion. i have heard great reviews about the michelin ms/2's. they are quiet, have top reviews in the snow and have a low rolling resistence so they are better on gas.

if you are serious about getting another set why not just get a set of tires. hers why, you will spend at least 4-500.00 on rims and the same if not more on tires. the shop near me will do the michelins for example installed for 810.00. now you have a year round tire. if you want to just get a winter set get the 18" tires and swap them every season. it would probably be more cost effective either way. even buying a set of 18's and swapping them each season would be cheaper than buying rims, tires and TPM sensors.

i see your point, but if i buy a set of tires, i would have to pay to get them swapped out every season and rebalanced everytime. I dont know how damaging it is one tires/rims to have it swapped out like that one a yearly basis, if any. Everytime they change the tires, they would need to re-balance the tires.

I have a set of tires that I just bought from Costco a few months ago and it's lifetime rotation and balance so I don't know how I would incorporate it with tire rotation idea.

I appreciate your input and will be a consideration. Thanks again! Cheers

 

[JMST4R]

i have a limited and it has the bigger brakes so you will need the sport or the older limited rims to work.

i have a suggestion. i have heard great reviews about the michelin ms/2's. they are quiet, have top reviews in the snow and have a low rolling resistence so they are better on gas.

if you are serious about getting another set why not just get a set of tires. hers why, you will spend at least 4-500.00 on rims and the same if not more on tires. the shop near me will do the michelins for example installed for 810.00. now you have a year round tire. if you want to just get a winter set get the 18" tires and swap them every season. it would probably be more cost effective either way. even buying a set of 18's and swapping them each season would be cheaper than buying rims, tires and TPM sensors.

Gecko, this is lousy advice (no offense, buddy). As I said earlier, finding decent traction tires in an 18" wheel size is difficult and very costly. I saw lots of Sport wheels on eBay (OEM ones) for $350-400, which is pretty reasonable. Mate them with some decent winter tires, and you'd have a set you can throw on (yourself if you're that kind of guy) super quick when it gets to be that time of season. Sure, you lose your TPMS unless you spend a lot outfitting new sensors as well, but that's your call if you want to spend a little more on those as well.
Secondly, you DO NOT want to be swapping tires on your OEM wheels twice a year. It'll only be a matter of time before the lips fold/weaken, and you'll be out some serious money. Also, "lifetime balance/rotation" does not include dismounting, and remounting different tires. And at the usual shop rate of $15 per wheel, that's $120 a year in mount and balance fees. Save yourself the time and money in the long run, and get some other wheels if that's the route you want. And as an end note, your HAVE to get 17's. Any Sport 17" will fit, as well as the few SR5 wheels that were equipped with 17's. Trust me, your tire selection will be the best with a 17" wheel.

 

[PAPA]

If you are regularly faced with harsh winter conditions, I would definateley go with a second set of wheels and dedicated true snow tires. I would also advise that you stay far away from all seasons, even with the winter rated Mountain Snow rating. They offer far from the the same snow performance that you can get from, tires such as the Nokian Hakkka R, Blizzak DMV1, or Michelin Winter Ice 2. I just purchased my 4Runner last week. It is equiped with Forterras. These tires with 4x4 are fine for getting and keeping you moving however, stopping and turning are still an issue. My short list includes only the tires mentioned above, with the Nokian Hakka R leading the pack. I will pull the trigger on another set of wheels, with tpms and snows as soon as the budget permits.

My question remains if the additional TPMS will remain in the ECU when swapped?

 

[Gecko123]

Gecko, this is lousy advice (no offense, buddy). As I said earlier, finding decent traction tires in an 18" wheel size is difficult and very costly. I saw lots of Sport wheels on eBay (OEM ones) for $350-400, which is pretty reasonable. Mate them with some decent winter tires, and you'd have a set you can throw on (yourself if you're that kind of guy) super quick when it gets to be that time of season. Sure, you lose your TPMS unless you spend a lot outfitting new sensors as well, but that's your call if you want to spend a little more on those as well.
Secondly, you DO NOT want to be swapping tires on your OEM wheels twice a year. It'll only be a matter of time before the lips fold/weaken, and you'll be out some serious money. Also, "lifetime balance/rotation" does not include dismounting, and remounting different tires. And at the usual shop rate of $15 per wheel, that's $120 a year in mount and balance fees. Save yourself the time and money in the long run, and get some other wheels if that's the route you want. And as an end note, your HAVE to get 17's. Any Sport 17" will fit, as well as the few SR5 wheels that were equipped with 17's. Trust me, your tire selection will be the best with a 17" wheel.

Yes, I see your point. That's what I was worried about too, having to re-install, re-balance, every season change. That could be damaging to the rims as it will leave a mark where the weight is located. Might also damage the lip of the tires. I will just need to locate some rims.

Having said this, he (inscarguy) had good intentions and was trying to help, so thanks to both for your input.

PAPA,
I think i would maybe just ignore the TPMS and save a few bucks and do the old fashion way, check the tires regularly. Besides, I heard the TPMS is not that accurate.

Thanks!

 

[Jerrydog]

Ive always had good luck with steel wheels and snow tires, most recently we got a set for my wifes new to her Honda Accord from Tirerack. Ive never had two sets for my SUV's but many Mainers around here do.

 

[galactic_04]

If you don't mind the light, then just don't put the TPMS in the new wheels. It's expensive and if they're on the truck 3 months out of the year you'll just get used to it. Only a dealer can program the TPMS from what I've seen and I'm not sure you can have 9 programmed in at once (2 sets and a spare).

I've always liked the Ivan Stewart Tundra wheel but don't know if they'd fit:

 

[williamZ]

I get a bit of snow here in WI and I have new Michelin ATX MS2's and it does pretty good. 18's as well. Otherwise I would have put on some 17" sport wheels with snows.

 

[inscarguy]

Gecko, this is lousy advice (no offense, buddy). As I said earlier, finding decent traction tires in an 18" wheel size is difficult and very costly. I saw lots of Sport wheels on eBay (OEM ones) for $350-400, which is pretty reasonable. Mate them with some decent winter tires, and you'd have a set you can throw on (yourself if you're that kind of guy) super quick when it gets to be that time of season. Sure, you lose your TPMS unless you spend a lot outfitting new sensors as well, but that's your call if you want to spend a little more on those as well.
Secondly, you DO NOT want to be swapping tires on your OEM wheels twice a year. It'll only be a matter of time before the lips fold/weaken, and you'll be out some serious money. Also, "lifetime balance/rotation" does not include dismounting, and remounting different tires. And at the usual shop rate of $15 per wheel, that's $120 a year in mount and balance fees. Save yourself the time and money in the long run, and get some other wheels if that's the route you want. And as an end note, your HAVE to get 17's. Any Sport 17" will fit, as well as the few SR5 wheels that were equipped with 17's. Trust me, your tire selection will be the best with a 17" wheel.

actually the original question seemed to direct to cost and availability.and i was showing him the other option he has. you just helped with my point, he is going to be into rims for 350-400, at least 600 in new tires, maybe a couple of hundred in TPM sensors and he is now into more money than just buying a good set of 18" tires. i had cross terrains on last winter and they were great but due to a mishap from my GF and them being discontinued i went to BFG KO's. im into them mounted and balanced for 1000.00 in 265/65r18 and they are also nitrogen filled. there are other 18" semi aggressive tires out there you can consider(nokian, BFG, General, Nitto, Bridgestone etc... there are quite a few members on here with 18's, lifted and an aggressive, semi aggressive or a highway tire. some have even upgraded to 18"s. so if 18" are are hard to get why would some change to that rim size.

even if you were for whatever reason to keep the rims and swap tires twice a year you will not have a problem with the rim lip. the tire mounting machines barely touch the lip(if they use the swing arm style not the one you use the tool on and pry the tire on). just something to think about- they would not make a machine that could possibly wreck a rim(the shop and tire machine company not knowing how many times a rim has been mounted or dismounted) it would be a safety issue and liability would come into effect.

all i am doing is giving you another option. if you have very limited options on 18" tires i would say go with the 17" option but i am in this industry every day and you would not actually believe how many choices you have on the size you need and can do what you need them to do.

 

[olsen_karl]

Where I live we may get the occasional snow fall.

Where do you live?

Agreed on just buying 4 wheels for the second set of tires. I use a set of OEM wheels I bought on craigslist, without the TPMS sensors. I just ignore the TPMS warning light on the dashboard during winter.

 

[davem]

ive taken my factory 17" sport wheels and had them powder coated and run dedicated winter tires on them and run a set of american racing wheels in the summer.

 

[M1911]

even if you were for whatever reason to keep the rims and swap tires twice a year you will not have a problem with the rim lip. the tire mounting machines barely touch the lip(if they use the swing arm style not the one you use the tool on and pry the tire on). just something to think about- they would not make a machine that could possibly wreck a rim(the shop and tire machine company not knowing how many times a rim has been mounted or dismounted) it would be a safety issue and liability would come into effect.

It's not wrecking the wheel by frequent tire changes that is the issue. The issue is wrecking the tire. And, yes, I've seen tires wrecked during tire changes. Furthermore, they'll have to balance the wheels each time they mount the tires, and that cost will add up.

Get a second set of wheels. It isn't all that expensive if you keep your vehicles 5+ years, and you buy a used set of wheels in the first place. And you can change over from your winter set to your summer set in your driveway, without making an appointment at the tire shop.