Help Needed on Tires!

OK gang, I'm brand new to the forum and I'm already in need of assistance from you all. I just traded in my 2012 Rubicon and bought a brand new 4 door Tacoma off road. I bought it here in Denver and I wanted the off road package they offered which included tires, 17" wheels, and a 3" lift. They had a used 4 door just like mine on the used lot (except a 2012) with 285-75-16 Nitto's and I told them I wanted the exact same set up. The salesperson told me to call today to confirm and when I did, the parts group told me they don't go bigger than 265-75-16 because of the rubbing that occurs. This bummed me out a bit as I was hoping for the 285's. The 2012 I'm trying to replicate is this one below. Any insight is greatly appreciated!

 

And here is my new whip, I just want to make sure I do it right!

 

You can do 285's, but theres a real good chance you'll have some rubbing even with a 3" lift. Dealer probably doesn't want to sell you something that they know will cause damage because that will make them liable. I get it from their point of view- gotta play it safe. I say do the 285's, if that's what you'll really want. You'll definitely rub at flex even if you don't during daily driving. Mudflats, cab mounts (CMC), fender flares all become a potential for concern. There's ways around all that once you get over cutting into a new truck. I have 285s on 3" and I couldn't be happier. BTW, don't be afraid to search on here. There's tons of useful info to be found. It is a bit overwhelming at first, but once you dip your feet, you'll find way more knowledge that what you were originally looking for. When you ask a question, you'll get everyone's experiences and opinions but there's always more to be learned out there.

Oh! And congrats on the truck and welcome aboard!

 

Thanks so much, that's what I'll do then!

 

Keep in mind too that your wheel choice will affect how bad you're going to rub. On stock wheels it's going to be pretty bad because of the lack of backspacing (or offset). Wheel spacers like spidertrax will help. After market wheels will push your tires out enough to help a lot. I have 17x8.5 wheels with 0 offset. If that helps. You have more choices in a 9" wide rim, but that half inch makes a difference.
Good luck! And don't forget to post pictures once you take delivery!

 

Yup ghost is right on. My dealer installed my lift and I had them put on 285s....they almost didn't let me leave with them. Had to talk to the manager and tell them I was okay with the rubbing. They definitely will not trim for you, so plan on doing that yourself or having a body shop do it.

Also, I would advise against a dealer lift unless you are sure it's a quality lift. More than likely it's a rancho quick lift or some cheapo spacer lift that they will over charge you for. My dealer wanted something like $1200 to lift my truck with the rancho kit. spent less money on a bilstein/OME kit and I'm very happy with it.