* Year of Bronco: Even within the 1996 model year, there might be slight variations.
* Specific Trim Level: Different trims may have slightly different wheel wells or suspension setups.
* Lift Kit: A lift kit significantly increases the space available for larger tires. Without a lift, fitting larger tires will be very limited.
* Wheel Backspacing: The offset of your wheels plays a huge role. Incorrect backspacing can cause rubbing even with a lift.
* Tire Type: The overall diameter of a tire isn't just determined by size. A 35" mud-terrain tire will have a different physical size than a 35" all-terrain tire.
Without a lift kit, you're likely limited to tires in the 31"-33" range, and even then, you might need trimming of the fender flares or body mount chop.
With a lift kit (2-4 inches or more), you can potentially fit 35" or even 37" tires, but this heavily depends on the specific lift kit, wheel backspacing, and tire type.
To find the biggest tire that *safely* fits your specific 1996 Ford Bronco, you should:
1. Check online forums: Bronco-specific forums (like those on Bronco forums) are invaluable resources. Search for threads discussing tire sizes and lift kits for your year and model. Look for posts with pictures to see what fits well.
2. Consult a tire shop: A reputable tire shop specializing in off-road vehicles can assess your Bronco and recommend suitable tire sizes.
3. Consider a lift kit: If you want to run larger tires, a lift kit is almost certainly necessary. Research different lift kits and their compatibility with your Bronco.
Don't just focus on the biggest size. Consider the tire's width and aspect ratio, as well as the wheel's offset (backspacing). Improperly sized tires can lead to rubbing, damage to your vehicle, and unsafe handling.
