wheel spacer questions

I'm new to this group and don't own a Tacoma personally, but my girlfriend does and i am responsible for maintaining it. It's a 07 4x4, V6, AT, and has a pro comp 6" lift installed by previous owner. Problem is.. Needs new tires badly and they are on some ugly 17" wheels. I seen that 16" wheels were original equipment, and due to more options and prices for tires, ordered new aftermarket 16's and tires. Then i found they hit the rod end on the steering knuckle. I then looked and found that the lift mfg requires 17's with 4.5" max backspace. The 16's have 4.5" so i measured and found that with just over a half inch less, they appear to clear just fine. I know i should have checked into this more to begin with, but i really do not want to return the tire/wheel combo.
Questions are.. Are 1" wheel spacers on the front a feasible solution? If so, has anyone had trouble with them? If so, is lug centric ok if installed correctly and checked regularly? Is there a better solution to this problem?
The truck rarely sees much off road use, but is driven on the freeway occasionally. Any information on this would be greatly appreciated.

 

Spidertrax spacers are the solution for you. While spacers arent the best solution, many people feel they are pretty safe if installed with loctite and checked for torque frequently. Some say never use a spacer.