Rovalution Blog

Fitting 18 inch steel wheels on the new defender

Written by Don MacDonald | Thu, Apr 22, '21

The question we've been getting a LOT since the new Defender dropped is: "How did you fit smaller wheels on the P400?!"

Well, we're going to tell you, and show you. So read on...


PS - note that for some of our overseas readers, the P400 is the only Defender that was available at launch, here in Canada, thus it has the large breaking package. This is not meant to be an exhaustive guide for fitting larger tires on your Defender. 

In the Spring of 2020, while eagerly waiting for the arrival of our New Defender P400, we did our research and found that a specific selection of new Genuine Land Rover Parts that will allow the installation of a slightly smaller rear brake package that will allow clearance for the 18” steel wheels without any cutting, grinding, custom parts or modifications. 

The parts kit available on the Rovalution Store. Click here to view and purchase.

On the front however we retained the original brake package and due to the large front brake calipers, we have had to make clearance for the 18” steel wheels by fitting the Terrafirma 4x4 30mm aluminum wheel spacers. Due to the excess offset to make this clearance up front, we could only fit the factory size rubber otherwise the tire will rub the front wheel arch liners at full steering lock. 

 

We did not grind, cut, weld or machine any parts of the vehicle, the braking system, the wheel spacers or the wheels. Our rear brake kit is a straight bolt on kit that can be done by any competent mechanic using all brand new Genuine Land Rover Parts following manufacturer's instructions.  

 

We are anticipating that a future generation of TuffAnt 18” steel wheels will be manufactured with clearance to fit over the front calipers without the the use to spacers and we are looking forward to this option. 

View the kit on our store here and watch the video below for even more detailed information. See you on the trails!

Please note: Rovalution does not provide instructions for this kit. Rovalution does not guarantee vehicle warranty when making any modifications to your Land Rover. Purchaser assumes all liability when purchasing this kit.