Fitting a Big Fat Spare

[TeCKis300]

What's the confirmed biggest size that fits under the 200 series with the OEM hitch? I have a 275/70/18 (33.2x10.8x18) under mine right now and I'd like to move up to a 285/70/18 (33.7x11.2x18) after the lift. If I move over to 17" wheels I'd like to run a 285/75/17 (33.8x11.2x18) or possibly a 34x10.5x17 and still keep the spare underneath if at all possible. Sticking with a traditionally smaller BFG tire might help!?

If I had to throw out a number, I would say 34.5" spec diameter is the max size just dropping in without contact. Could do 35" as @dubyahard is showing, but I would recommend deflating and strapping that to see if contact could be avoided.

 

[TLC2013]

Let’s say you end up having a tire failure out on the trail and have to run the smaller spare to get back home. Is it better to run that smaller tire on the front or rear?