So, you're thinking about slapping some massive 37-inch tires on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler, huh? That's awesome! A Jeep with beefy tires just looks… well, right. But before you go ahead and drop a load of cash on those bad boys, let's figure out if they'll actually fit without turning your Wrangler into a garage queen. Upgrading your tires is one of the most common modifications for Jeep enthusiasts. Larger tires not only enhance the aggressive look of your vehicle but also improve its off-road capabilities by increasing ground clearance and providing better traction on various terrains. The 2013 Jeep Wrangler, known for its ruggedness and versatility, is a popular choice for such modifications. However, fitting 37-inch tires is not a straightforward task and requires careful consideration and planning. It involves understanding the potential challenges and necessary modifications to ensure a safe and functional setup. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about fitting 37-inch tires on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler, from assessing your Jeep's current setup to making the necessary upgrades. We’ll cover lift kits, gear ratios, fender modifications, and more, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to achieve this impressive upgrade. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear roadmap to follow, ensuring your Wrangler not only looks fantastic but also performs optimally on and off the road. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of big tires and modified Jeeps! Whether you’re an experienced off-roader or new to the Jeep community, this article will provide valuable insights and practical advice to help you make informed decisions and achieve the perfect setup for your 2013 Jeep Wrangler. Remember, the goal is to enhance your Jeep’s capabilities while maintaining its reliability and safety. With the right preparation and modifications, you can transform your Wrangler into a true off-road beast. So, buckle up and get ready to learn everything you need to know about fitting 37-inch tires on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Basics

Before we get our hands dirty, let's talk basics. Can a 2013 Wrangler handle 37s? Technically, yes, but with a big asterisk. You're not just bolting them on and calling it a day. There's a whole domino effect of modifications that need to happen to make it work safely and effectively. First, let's consider the factory setup of your 2013 Jeep Wrangler. These vehicles are designed with specific tire sizes in mind, which are optimized for a balance of on-road comfort, fuel efficiency, and moderate off-road capabilities. The stock suspension and components are engineered to work within these parameters. When you significantly increase tire size, you're altering the vehicle's geometry and placing additional stress on various parts, including the axles, brakes, and steering system. This is why modifications are essential to ensure everything works harmoniously. Upgrading to 37-inch tires affects several aspects of your Jeep’s performance. The increased diameter raises the vehicle's center of gravity, which can impact stability, especially during turns and on uneven terrain. Larger tires also weigh more, which can reduce acceleration and increase braking distances. Furthermore, the added weight and size can strain the drivetrain, potentially leading to premature wear and tear on components like the axles and gears. To counteract these effects, it’s crucial to address these issues with appropriate modifications. A lift kit is typically the first step, providing the necessary clearance to accommodate the larger tires. However, the lift is just the beginning. You'll also need to consider upgrading the axles to handle the increased stress, re-gearing to restore optimal power delivery, and modifying the fenders to prevent rubbing. Each of these modifications plays a critical role in ensuring your Wrangler can handle the larger tires safely and effectively. In addition to the mechanical aspects, it’s also important to think about the aesthetic impact. A Jeep with 37-inch tires looks undeniably impressive, but the overall appearance should be balanced and well-proportioned. This might involve adding aftermarket bumpers, fender flares, and other accessories to complement the larger tires and enhance the vehicle’s rugged look. Ultimately, the goal is to create a cohesive and functional build that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well in various driving conditions. So, as you plan your upgrade, keep in mind that it’s a comprehensive process that requires careful planning and execution. By understanding the basics and addressing the potential challenges, you can transform your 2013 Jeep Wrangler into a capable and eye-catching off-road machine.

Essential Modifications

Okay, so what exactly needs to be done? Here’s the breakdown:

• Lift Kit: You're gonna need some serious lift. We're talking at least a 3.5-inch lift, but a 4-inch lift is even better to give you ample clearance and prevent those tires from rubbing when you're flexing off-road. A lift kit is the foundation for fitting larger tires, providing the necessary space between the tires and the body of the Jeep. When selecting a lift kit, consider the quality of the components and the type of driving you plan to do. For primarily on-road use, a basic spacer lift might suffice, but for serious off-roading, you’ll want a more robust suspension lift with upgraded shocks, springs, and control arms. A good lift kit will not only provide the necessary height but also improve the overall ride quality and handling of your Wrangler. It’s also important to ensure the lift kit is properly installed, as incorrect installation can lead to safety issues and premature wear of suspension components. Investing in a high-quality lift kit from a reputable brand is a worthwhile investment that will pay off in the long run. Additionally, consider the other components that come with the lift kit, such as sway bar disconnects and adjustable control arms, which can further enhance your Jeep’s off-road capabilities. When choosing a lift kit, read reviews and consult with experienced Jeep owners or off-road specialists to get their recommendations. Their insights can help you make an informed decision and select a lift kit that meets your specific needs and budget. Remember, the lift kit is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a critical one that sets the stage for the rest of your modifications. With the right lift kit in place, you’ll be well on your way to fitting those 37-inch tires and transforming your Wrangler into a true off-road machine. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a lift kit that will provide the performance, durability, and reliability you need to tackle any terrain.
• Gears: Your stock gears will hate you with 37s. Re-gearing is crucial to get your power back and prevent your transmission from grenading itself. A 4.88 or even a 5.13 gear ratio is generally recommended for 37-inch tires. Re-gearing involves replacing the gears in your front and rear differentials with gears that have a different ratio. This changes the relationship between the engine speed and the wheel speed, allowing you to regain lost power and improve fuel efficiency. When you install larger tires, the effective gear ratio is reduced, which can make your engine work harder to turn the wheels. This can lead to sluggish acceleration, reduced fuel economy, and increased stress on the drivetrain. Re-gearing corrects this by providing the necessary torque to turn the larger tires without straining the engine. The ideal gear ratio depends on several factors, including the type of driving you do, the weight of your vehicle, and your personal preferences. For example, if you primarily drive on the street, a slightly higher gear ratio might be preferable to maintain better fuel economy. However, if you spend a lot of time off-roading, a lower gear ratio will provide more torque and control in challenging terrain. Consulting with a professional mechanic or off-road specialist is highly recommended to determine the best gear ratio for your specific needs. They can take into account all the relevant factors and provide expert advice to ensure you make the right choice. Re-gearing is a complex process that requires specialized tools and knowledge. It’s not a DIY project for most people, so it’s best to have it done by a qualified mechanic. The cost of re-gearing can vary depending on the gear ratio you choose, the mechanic you hire, and the complexity of the job. However, it’s a worthwhile investment that will significantly improve the performance and reliability of your Wrangler. In addition to re-gearing, you might also consider upgrading other components of your drivetrain, such as the axles and driveshafts. These components can also be affected by the increased stress of larger tires, and upgrading them can provide added durability and peace of mind. So, as you plan your upgrade to 37-inch tires, don’t overlook the importance of re-gearing. It’s a critical modification that will ensure your Wrangler can handle the larger tires safely and effectively.
• Axles: The Dana 30 front axle on some Wranglers might survive gentle off-roading with 37s, but it's a ticking time bomb. Upgrading to a Dana 44 or even a Dana 60 is a very smart move for added strength and peace of mind. Upgrading your axles is crucial when you move to larger tires, especially 37-inch tires. The stock axles on many Jeep Wranglers are not designed to handle the increased stress and weight of larger tires, which can lead to premature failure. Upgrading to stronger axles, such as Dana 44 or Dana 60, provides the necessary durability and reliability to withstand the demands of off-roading and daily driving with larger tires. The Dana 30 front axle, which is found on some Wrangler models, is particularly vulnerable to damage when paired with 37-inch tires. While it might be able to handle light off-roading, it’s not designed for serious trails and can easily break under stress. Upgrading to a Dana 44 or Dana 60 axle provides a significant increase in strength and durability, reducing the risk of axle failure. Dana 44 axles are a popular upgrade for Jeep Wranglers, offering a good balance of strength and affordability. They are stronger than Dana 30 axles and can handle moderate off-roading with 37-inch tires. However, for more extreme off-roading or if you plan to add additional weight to your Jeep, such as heavy bumpers or armor, a Dana 60 axle might be a better choice. Dana 60 axles are the strongest option available and are designed to handle the most demanding conditions. They are commonly used in heavy-duty trucks and off-road vehicles and can provide the ultimate in strength and reliability. When upgrading your axles, it’s important to consider the gear ratio as well. You’ll want to choose a gear ratio that is appropriate for your tire size and driving style. A professional mechanic can help you determine the best gear ratio for your specific needs. In addition to upgrading the axles themselves, you might also consider upgrading other components, such as the axle shafts, U-joints, and bearings. These components can also be affected by the increased stress of larger tires, and upgrading them can provide added durability and peace of mind. Upgrading your axles is a significant investment, but it’s a worthwhile one if you plan to run 37-inch tires on your Jeep Wrangler. It will provide the necessary strength and reliability to handle the demands of off-roading and daily driving, ensuring your Jeep is ready for any adventure.
• Fender Modifications: Those 37s are big. You'll likely need to trim your fenders or install aftermarket flat fenders to prevent rubbing, especially when you're articulating on the trails. Modifying your fenders is an essential step when fitting 37-inch tires on your Jeep Wrangler. The stock fenders are not designed to accommodate tires of this size, and you’ll likely experience rubbing, especially when the suspension is flexing during off-road adventures. There are several options for modifying your fenders, ranging from simple trimming to installing aftermarket fender flares. Trimming your fenders involves cutting away part of the stock fender to create more clearance for the tires. This is a cost-effective option, but it can be time-consuming and requires careful planning to ensure a clean and professional look. You’ll need to use a saw or cutting tool to remove the excess material, and then smooth the edges to prevent sharp points. Aftermarket fender flares are another popular option for modifying your fenders. These flares are designed to provide additional clearance for larger tires while also enhancing the appearance of your Jeep. They come in a variety of styles, from flat fender flares to wider, more aggressive flares. Flat fender flares are a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts, as they provide maximum clearance for larger tires and offer a rugged, minimalist look. They are typically made from durable materials such as steel or aluminum and are designed to withstand the rigors of off-roading. Wider fender flares can also be a good option if you want to maintain a more stock-like appearance while still providing additional clearance for your tires. These flares are typically made from plastic or fiberglass and are designed to match the styling of the Jeep. When choosing fender flares, it’s important to consider the width and offset of your wheels. You’ll want to choose flares that provide adequate coverage for your tires to prevent rocks and debris from being thrown up onto the body of your Jeep. You’ll also want to make sure the flares comply with local laws and regulations regarding tire coverage. Installing fender flares is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with basic tools. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your Jeep, you can always have them installed by a professional mechanic. Modifying your fenders is a crucial step in fitting 37-inch tires on your Jeep Wrangler. It will ensure you have adequate clearance for your tires and prevent rubbing, allowing you to enjoy your off-road adventures without worrying about damaging your Jeep.

Other Considerations

• Brakes: Bigger tires mean more weight and rolling resistance. Upgrading your brakes (rotors, calipers, pads) is a really good idea to maintain stopping power. Upgrading your brakes is a crucial consideration when you upgrade to larger tires, such as 37-inch tires, on your Jeep Wrangler. Larger tires increase the overall weight and rolling resistance of your vehicle, which can significantly impact your braking performance. The stock brakes on many Jeep Wranglers are not designed to handle the increased demands of larger tires, which can lead to longer stopping distances and reduced braking effectiveness. Upgrading your brakes with larger rotors, more powerful calipers, and high-performance brake pads can significantly improve your stopping power and ensure your safety on and off the road. Larger rotors provide more surface area for the brake pads to grip, which increases the braking force and reduces the risk of brake fade. More powerful calipers provide more clamping force on the rotors, which further enhances the braking performance. High-performance brake pads are designed to provide better friction and heat resistance, which improves braking effectiveness and reduces wear. There are several options for upgrading your brakes, ranging from simple pad and rotor replacements to complete brake system upgrades. A simple pad and rotor replacement can be a cost-effective way to improve your braking performance, but for more significant improvements, a complete brake system upgrade might be necessary. A complete brake system upgrade typically includes larger rotors, more powerful calipers, high-performance brake pads, and stainless steel brake lines. Stainless steel brake lines are less prone to expansion under pressure, which improves braking responsiveness and reduces the risk of brake fade. When choosing brake components, it’s important to consider the type of driving you do and the weight of your vehicle. If you primarily drive on the street, a high-performance street brake kit might be sufficient. However, if you spend a lot of time off-roading or if you have added a lot of weight to your Jeep, a more robust off-road brake kit might be necessary. Installing brake components is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with basic tools. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your brakes, you can always have them installed by a professional mechanic. Upgrading your brakes is a crucial safety upgrade when you upgrade to larger tires on your Jeep Wrangler. It will ensure you have adequate stopping power and can safely handle the increased weight and rolling resistance of larger tires.
• Steering: The added stress on your steering components can lead to premature wear or even breakage. Consider a steering stabilizer and possibly upgrading your steering box. Upgrading your steering components is essential when you install larger tires, such as 37-inch tires, on your Jeep Wrangler. The increased weight and rolling resistance of larger tires put additional stress on your steering system, which can lead to premature wear and tear or even failure of steering components. Upgrading your steering stabilizer and steering box can significantly improve your steering control and reduce the risk of steering problems. A steering stabilizer is a shock absorber that is mounted to your steering system to dampen vibrations and reduce steering wheel movement. It helps to keep your Jeep stable and prevents the steering wheel from jerking or wobbling, especially when driving on rough terrain. Upgrading to a stronger steering stabilizer can provide better control and stability, especially when running larger tires. A steering box is the component that translates the movement of your steering wheel into the movement of your wheels. The stock steering box on many Jeep Wranglers is not designed to handle the increased stress of larger tires, which can lead to premature wear and tear or even failure. Upgrading to a stronger steering box can provide better steering control and reduce the risk of steering problems. There are several options for upgrading your steering box, ranging from remanufactured steering boxes to completely new, high-performance steering boxes. A remanufactured steering box is a cost-effective option that can provide improved steering performance compared to a worn-out stock steering box. A high-performance steering box is designed to handle the most demanding conditions and can provide the ultimate in steering control and reliability. When choosing a steering box, it’s important to consider the type of driving you do and the weight of your vehicle. If you primarily drive on the street, a remanufactured steering box might be sufficient. However, if you spend a lot of time off-roading or if you have added a lot of weight to your Jeep, a high-performance steering box might be necessary. Installing steering components is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with basic tools. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your steering system, you can always have them installed by a professional mechanic. Upgrading your steering components is a crucial safety upgrade when you upgrade to larger tires on your Jeep Wrangler. It will ensure you have adequate steering control and can safely handle the increased weight and rolling resistance of larger tires.

Is It Worth It?

That's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Putting 37s on your 2013 Wrangler is a commitment. It's not just a tire purchase; it's a whole project. Is it worth the cost and effort? If you're serious about off-roading and want that aggressive look, then absolutely. But if you're mostly a street driver, the downsides might outweigh the benefits. Deciding whether or not to install 37-inch tires on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your priorities and how you use your vehicle. While the larger tires can significantly enhance your Jeep's off-road capabilities and give it a more aggressive appearance, they also come with several drawbacks that may not be worth it for everyone. If you're an avid off-roader who frequently tackles challenging trails, then the benefits of 37-inch tires may outweigh the drawbacks. The increased ground clearance, better traction, and improved approach and departure angles can make a significant difference in your ability to navigate difficult terrain. However, if you primarily use your Jeep for commuting and daily driving, the downsides of 37-inch tires may be more pronounced. The increased rolling resistance can lead to reduced fuel economy, and the larger tires can make your Jeep feel sluggish and less responsive on the road. Additionally, the modifications required to fit 37-inch tires can be expensive and time-consuming. You'll need to invest in a lift kit, re-gearing, axle upgrades, fender modifications, and possibly brake and steering upgrades. These modifications can add up to a significant expense, and they may also require professional installation if you're not comfortable working on your Jeep yourself. Before making a decision, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your specific needs and priorities. Ask yourself how often you plan to off-road, how much you value fuel economy and on-road performance, and how much you're willing to spend on modifications. You might also want to talk to other Jeep owners who have installed 37-inch tires on their Wranglers to get their insights and experiences. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install 37-inch tires on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a personal one that depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. There's no right or wrong answer, but it's important to make an informed decision based on a thorough understanding of the benefits and drawbacks.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it. Putting 37s on your 2013 Jeep Wrangler is a major undertaking, but with the right planning and execution, it can transform your Jeep into an unstoppable off-road machine. Just remember to do your research, budget accordingly, and don't skimp on quality parts. Happy Jeeping! Upgrading your Jeep Wrangler with 37-inch tires is an exciting and transformative project that can significantly enhance its off-road capabilities and aesthetics. However, it's crucial to approach this modification with a clear understanding of the necessary steps and potential challenges. This article has provided a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process, from understanding the basics to essential modifications and other important considerations. Remember, the key to a successful upgrade is careful planning, meticulous execution, and a commitment to using high-quality parts. Don't rush into the project without doing your research and consulting with experienced Jeep owners or off-road specialists. Their insights and recommendations can be invaluable in helping you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Budgeting is also an essential aspect of the upgrade process. It's important to factor in the cost of all the necessary modifications, including the lift kit, re-gearing, axle upgrades, fender modifications, and brake and steering upgrades. Don't skimp on quality parts to save money, as this can lead to premature wear and tear or even failure of components. Investing in high-quality parts will ensure the longevity and reliability of your Jeep. Finally, remember that upgrading to 37-inch tires is a commitment that requires ongoing maintenance and attention. You'll need to regularly inspect your tires, suspension, and other components to ensure they are in good condition. You may also need to adjust your driving habits to accommodate the larger tires and modified suspension. With the right preparation and execution, upgrading your Jeep Wrangler with 37-inch tires can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You'll not only enhance your Jeep's off-road capabilities but also transform its appearance and make it stand out from the crowd. So, take your time, do your research, and enjoy the journey. Happy Jeeping!