But here is some intel on the front to back tracking difference albeit regarding Porsche autos...

What is effect of difference in wheel track width on handling? - Pelican Parts Forums

 

Another quick and dirty answer...

 

Both articles answer way better than i could { if you read between the lines in the first article and ignore changing spring rates and such } why when adding spacers they are the same front and back and do not increase the rears to the same width as the front.

 

Yep. Finally got to the bottom line. I browsed numerous other 4wd forums and most were aware of the tracking differences but no one could explain why. Makes sense. Now just have to wait for the rain to stop to get under my rig...

 

Rain - I'll trade ya - I live in northern Wyoming 20 deg or less, snow and ice - LOL

 

A lot of good info, guys.

I've had a set of 1.25'' spacers I've been waiting to put on the rear for awhile. Looks like I might just keep waiting..

 

Oh man! And I only installed mine because I thought they'd make it more stable. I even asked on the forum explicitly if spacers were of use and not just for show. LOL

Now I have to do even more research. If there is a benefit when off pavement then I'll likely leave them on as long as I'm not really hurting anything. Only being on the rear, I am now hoping the only issue is the ease of steering and not excessive increased wear and tear on suspension components.

 

I think the biggest concern and reason for the difference is the chance of over-steer. Whereas you go into a turn and it steers harder than you expect and there is the potential for loss of control and, at the worst case, roll-over. I would think it be mainly on pavement and due to the narrow track width and high center of gravity. I had this happen to me in a tall 4wd 20,000 gvw truck. Almost lost it, everything went flying off the dash and scared the crap outta me. Wound up in the other lane but held on to it. And I was only doing about 45.

Still raining here so have not gotten under mine yet to see the source of the problem.

 

OK so I finally looked at the wheels. well I guess I was deaf because they were rubbing on both sides. One side on the brake wire. (Maybe why I did not hear it.) They are indeed rubbing on the inside edge of the rim lip on the front of the upper A arms when turning. Ordered spacers and will go from there. Looked into 16" rims but hard time finding something to fit without adapters...

 

The ZQ8 and Xtreme wheels are stock 16" with the proper backspacing.