Hey mate they are 18X8 rims on it but I've never even been close to scrubbing. They don't tuck very much under the guard I don't think you would have a drama with 8.5s as long as the extra width is on the inside of the rim.
Hey thanks for the offer but because of where your located its probably cheaper finding a motor around here.. theres 2 local wreckers close by so im sure ill find a cheap motor but thanks