will a 295/35 R18 fit on a 9.5 wide rim (the company recomends a 10-12)

 

First, 295/35 is too tall. 295/30 is what you'd want, but I wouldn't put it on any smaller than a 10.5" rim.

For your rim, the widest I'd go is 285/30, and better still, I'd go 275/35.

 

I think the "perfect" match to a 9.5 would be a 265.. I got 275s, but no way on a 295

 

I wouldn't go bigger than 275 on a 9.5.

jamming a bigger tire on a small wheel is worthless as it will just balloon and reduce the contact patch of the tire, and make its steering response worse.

 

I already have a 285 pirelli on the 9.5 and it works great for cornering but I was looking into drag radials and bfg does not have 285 only 295s (not worried about cornering anymore)
so my question is will the 295 work on a 9.5 for STRAIGHT LINE USE and occasional street driving

 

Go to tirerack.com, or BFG's site and check the specs for the specific tire. They should give you a range of wheel widths that are suitable for that particular tire.

 

Bridgestone REO1R's would be great for your application.

http://www.bridgestonetire.com/tires...productID=1111

If you would be interested in getting bridgestones let me know because I have some 18's that I could sell you.

 

I think 295's might be a little wider, 275 to 285 would be a wiser option if you'd ask me.

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