[tarheelneil]

you can't fit as aggressive of a wheel on the front as you can in the back, iirc, so the same all around might end up looking kinda sunk in the rear...for 9.5" wide, you probably want 5" backspacing, maybe 4.5"...i'm not sure, but i've been doing research like you and have found it nearly impossible to nail this stuff down because no one seems to post specs when they post pics...definitely interested in replies from vets

 

[tarheelneil]

Tire Rack:

255/50-17 - 2 choices starting at $133 each

275/40-17 - 32 choices starting at $91 each (size OP wants to use)

285/40-17 - 7 choices starting at $169 each

There are additional sources offering all 3 sizes in other brands.

I think it won't be a problem to get tires for 17's for a good while.....how much more "choice" is needed?

wouldn't 275/40 be way too small a diameter?...285/45 will give the exact same diameter as stock tires...that's what i'm looking at

do you think a 285/45/17 tire on a 9.5" wide, 4.5" bs wheel fit in the rear?...or would i need to go 5" bs?...looking to push it out as far as I can to stay flush, but avoid rubbing...I guess I can roll the fenders too

 

[tarheelneil]

nevermind, a 275 or 285/45/17 doesn't exist...this might be tough