So why are you discussing that today and not last week????
I just went through this problem yesterday.
1ton 1953 truck with 17' split rims and tires the same age.
I found 4 used 16" rims the 2 rear wheels where ok
to be fitted. One front one was no problem and the last one jammed on the tie rod end.
I was sligtly p......
Started comparing the rims and found that the offset was different. I laid across the inner side
of the rim a ruler and meassured down to the mounting hole, Yes there is a 3/4" difference.
So back to the scrap yard to exchange one rim
came back to the tire dealer and still was the wrong rim. correct offset but different width at the safety beat.Back to the scrap yard. found another rim different looks and different width.
I found so far 4 different 16" rims
the width by the safty bead is as following
6"-6.5"-7"-7.5"
So if you get a 16" tire with the width of 6" and the offset should be 4" from the lower step on the safety bead you should be beable to mount them on the front.
My tire dealer told me I could use a Dodge space.
The have to put them on the 2000 model right front tire only, as the disc brakes will touch the rime after they wear down.
I was thinking to put spacers between the axlehousing and the steering arm which attaches to it and connect to the tie rod.
Any comment on that thought?
Also how much space should be between the rim and the tierod end???