Here's what you need to consider:
* Backspacing: The distance between the wheel mounting surface and the inside edge of the wheel. This is crucial to ensure proper fitment and avoid rubbing against suspension components or the frame. Using a smaller wheel *might* require a different backspacing to maintain proper clearance.
* Bolt Pattern: Your 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 likely has a 6x5.5" or 6x139.7mm bolt pattern. Make sure any smaller wheel you consider uses the same bolt pattern.
* Overall Diameter: The goal is to maintain a similar overall diameter to your current setup or only increase it slightly. A significantly larger diameter will affect your speedometer, odometer, and transmission shifting points. You'll need a tire size calculator (many are available online) to determine the overall diameter of different wheel and tire combinations.
* Tire Size: Smaller wheels generally allow for taller sidewall tires, giving you the bigger diameter you want. However, you are limited by available tire sizes and the amount of space available in your wheel wells.
In short: Yes, you *can* go to smaller wheels, but it's not a simple swap. You *must* do your research to find a combination of wheel size and tire size that fits your truck's specifications and provides adequate clearance. Failing to do so can lead to rubbing, damage to your truck, and safety issues. Use an online tire size calculator to experiment with different combinations before purchasing anything. Consider consulting a tire professional for advice specific to your truck's model and year.
