Downsizing brake calipers?

Hello all, I hate to do this since it seems like it would be easily researchable, but I've tried google and the most recent info is talking about 16" wheels down to 15" wheels, from a 2020 thread.

I have a 2022 TRD ORP that I'd like to put 16" wheels on since the 255/85R16 BFG KM3 is by far my favorite tire. BFG don't make the KM3 or K02 in a 255/80R17, and I'd very much like to stick with one of those two tires. So it seems my only option would be to reduce the caliper size.

Since I know absolutely nothing about brakes, what all parts would require replacing to make 16" wheels fit, and roughly (ballpark) how much would I be looking at in parts (only brake-related parts, not the wheels and tires)? Many thanks in advance.

 

It's not just the calipers, but the rotors as well. Gut reaction is that this mod is certainly not worth the effort or cost to fit wheels that are 1" smaller.

But! In an effort not to be a kermudgen and throw logic to the wind, I imagine 2nd gen Tacoma front calipers and rotors would fit to allow 16's with minimal fab work.

 

I appreciate the quick response and the info. That's too bad that it might be cost-prohibitive. I really wish more companies made their tires in 255/80R17's. I know there are several AT tires in that size, but virtually no MT's to speak of.

 

To @PVT Pablo 's point, a documented mod for the 2nd gen Tacoma is to upgrade the rotors, calipers, backing plates from a 4Runner: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...unner-bbk-upgrade-for-2nd-gen-tacomas.504234/ You may be able to do the same thing in reverse. You'll want to keep in mind that the 4Runner weights 300-600# more than the Tacoma; reducing the stopping power to fit a smaller diameter wheel may compromise safety/driveability.

 

15s didn’t fit the fixed caliper Tacoma either. Honestly I don’t see the point of downgrading brakes just to fit a specific tire. You’re going to spend more money and time plus reducing braking performance while you’re at it.

 

That's fair. Like I said the one and only benefit I was looking for is the wider range of tire selection. I don't prefer a 16" wheel over a 17" wheel...it's just that the tire size/ profile I like doesn't come in a 17. I did, however, just come across a post that Falken is releasing a new RT that will come in the 255/80R17 size, so that might be an option.

 

I recently upgraded the front brakes on my 2015 Tacoma TRD Sport AC 2WD to the front brake setup I have on my 4Runner. I replaced the calipers and rotors with factory T4R from Toyota. The parts, I think, was about $1400 plus labor. I did not have to replace the backing plate. So I guess you could kind of estimate costs based on that. I hated the original brakes on my Tacoma - kind of wimpy and warped rather quickly likely due to my driving style. I have been extremely happy with the 4 Runner brakes now on my Tacoma.

That being said, I could not imagine going smaller for the reasons many have posted above. The safety reasons alone would make me not do such a thing.

 

I was just looking up that size, I found these. I've never seen them before, but they look promising.

 

Thanks for looking that up. I'd come across those recently as well, and they definitely seem like the most aggressive tires currently available in that size. BFG used to offer the KM2 in that size, but they discontinued it in the KM3 for some reason.

 

53 lbs weight is hard on suspension components
On-/Off-Road Commercial Traction

 

Thanks, that does give me a good idea of price. I think the advice I'm getting is sound, it's probably not worth doing for both cost and safety reasons. I appreciate everyone's input. I guess I'll be sticking with the 17's.

 

I thought Toyo offered their MT in that size, but I didn't see it. That RT looks great, and I looked at the specs and they don't seem too heavy.

 

I'm sure you're right. My truck is at the shop as we speak getting an OME "heavy" suspension/ 2" lift kit installed. I also drive like a grandma, which I think makes it easier on the suspension as well.

 

My new 4Runner is the first vehicle I've had with 17" wheels, and I currently have stock size KM3's on it, so I can't say for certain...but... My 2017 Taco wore 255/85R16's (BFG KM3), which I believe are nearly identical in size, and my truck had no lift whatsoever. There was slight rubbing in full lock turns with front weight transfer, but that went completely away when I removed the front mud flaps and shaved just a half inch or so off the corner plastic with a dremel. I believe most folks will tell you a 255/80R17 works just fine on a stock 4Runner with very little modification. Tall skinny tires fit much better than wide tires.

Here's my stock height Taco with 255/85R16's.