Smaller Tires

So I've got a bit of an issue and wanted some advice.

I have a 2009 Tacoma Sport 4x4 short bed double cab. I have a set of Dick Cepek DC1 16" rims. Due to the offset of the rims the tires rub if I put on a tire larger then 255/70/16 (running now and just barely clear plastics while making a full turn) 245/75/16 I'd imagine would be okay as well, or very close atleast if I removed mud flaps they'd fit.

I don't have any interest in lifting the truck, mostly because I can't rationalize the cost when I don't offroad much, not because I don't want it.

So my question is what effect would running a 255/70/16 have over running the stock 265/70/17 - I know it effects my speedometer, but how does it effect gas milage etc?

Thanks.

 

Hmmm something is up here. What is the offset or backspacing of the wheels? You shouldn't be close to rubbing with either of those sizes, or even with a 265/75/16, with the proper wheels.

 

I'm not sure, I bought them second hand - is there a way to get that info off the rim or a model #?

I had them on my colorado until I sold that POS.

 

I have these same wheels (4" backspacing), and even with a 2.5" lift my 265/75/16's rub at full lock in reverse.

 

Do I have any mechanical, or fuel consumption issues to worry about running the smaller tires?

 

Is this with mud flaps on or off?

 

It should be stamped on them somewhere. Should say something like "16x8JJ ET-6" or something of that nature.

Too little backspacing for our trucks.

 

I left the mudflaps on but used a heat gun to flatten them out a bit which helped. I also trimmed a bit of the front wheel well with a knife.

 

Stock Sports are 265/65/17 , not 265/70/17

 

Well in that case, that only gives me about 1.5% difference in size - thats not too bad then.