rim / wheel backspacing question

hey, im about to lift my 89 k1500
and the kit says to have at least 4.5" inches of backspacing on aftermarket wheels (required)
i heard somewhere that the lower the number, the more the stick out... is that good or bad ?
i need some rims for my truck, and looking around but i dont want to buy the wrong size and lose the money

can i put 4" or maybe 3.5 " of backspacing ?
or do i have to go higher like 4.75"-5"

please help

Follow the backspacing that is recommended. Or you can go to a local tire dealer and they can tell you what will fit. American Racing Wheels are probably the best bang for the buck without buying used. Just make sure you install a bigger brake setup to help stop the rotating force of a large diameter wheel and tire package.

Absolutley follow the recommended backspacing. Engineers have designed these specs for reason. I don't understand some of these cars driving around. What are these people thinking?!?!! They aren't thinkig really. Like those vehicles where the wheels stick out past the body; do these people not understand that those 4 tires are the ONLY thing supporting the vehicles weight? Where is the logic in putting this support (wheels) out past the wieght to be supported (vehicle) that can easily be in excess if 3000 pounds (1 and a half tons). And think about that much weight being bounced around when you hit a bump or turn a corner, etc, how much stress is bieng pu on the parts that hold everything together like axles, STEERING LINKAGE, etc. Here's one way to relate to it.... the human body....where is the support (legs)? Directly underneath the weight to be supported (you) right? Well, imagine if your legs were just past your the outside of your torso, how much stress would be put on your hips, knees, etc. Now imagine your weight moving and bouncing around....how much could your knees, hips, bones take then?

There is a legitimate reason why engineers come up with the recommended backspacing for your vehicle