15" Wheels and Lift Kits

[geoffrey chew]

This is my first TM post as the new owner of a TM 2008 2720SL running on 14" wheels and original Marathon tyres. There have been numerous posts on both these issues. However changing to 15" wheels only requires an additional 1/2" clearance in the wheel well and the lift kit raises the TM body by a considerable 2". So Is the lift kit really needed just for this change in wheel size or are owners installing it for other reasons? I would very much appreciate some guidance.

[Barb&Tim]

Welcome to the forum!

This may answer your question:

http://www.trailmanorowners.com/foru...11&postcount=7

Tim

Your TM came with the new "lifted" axle, so a lift kit will not be needed to install the 15" wheels. The axle change came during the 2006 model year as I recall.

[geoffrey chew]

Thanks for the info. Just loooking at tire data- the Marathon C Rated 215/75/R14 has a dia of 26.7" against the Maxxis D rated 205/75/R15 dia of 27.1" so the wheel well clearance is reduced by an almost insignificant 0.2". However I will take the skirts off and do a practical check as suggested. I am still puzzled why TM would lift the later model 2720 without also installing 15" wheels. Is there any other advantage in having the high axle?

Originally Posted by geoffrey chew

... Is there any other advantage in having the high axle?

Ground clearance, especially when going off-road. Helps protect the plumbing, you won't scrape the rear bumper or hitch as much.