quick question, does a 255/50/17 tire fit the stock 17" inch rim. If not what is the best option for increasing width

 

it can fit but is not recommended. 245 would be safer, if you had to go wider with the stock rim.
Your best option is obvious= new rims.

 

+1..
if you really like your rims tho.. and want a cheaper route u can have them widened for around 100 bux a wheel

 

Depends on the brand, check the web site of the tire manufacturer. For example, according to nittotires.com, their Nitto 555's in 255-50-17 will fit a 7-9 inch rim. They are pretty much exactly the same diameter as stock tires.

I've heard of people putting much wider tires on their stock rims. I would say as long as you go by the manufacturer's instructions you should be fine. I plan on putting these tires on my car in the next month.

I myself would be interested in getting 2 more stockers like mine and and getting them widened for drag radials, unless i could find ones that look just like stock.

Do they cut the wheel in half and add a metal ring to the middle to widen them?