will a 15" rim fit on a 97 grand?
 

as the subject line asks, any issues clearing the calipers? i eventually plan on upgrading to 35s and i am thinking 15s would be better than 17s for more sidewall flex.

Yes they will fit. Another issue nowadays between 15 and 17" tires is that most of the 17s are now going to load range D. The majority of 15s are still load range C, which will flex much better

do you think going to15s would be better than 17s?

There is more than just the load range issue. The 15s will give you a wider stance since they just about universally have less backspace than a 17. But shop around and find what tire you want. Like I said, most of the 17s are made for pickups and are load range D or E

Most ZJ's came stock on 15" wheels, the hard part is aside form the stock styles, finding a 5x4.5 stud patterned wheel for a decent price.

All '93-'95 ZJ's came with 15"'s, but for the '96-'98 ZJ's, only the base Laredos came with 15"'s, the rest of the lineup came with 16"'s. Don't think you should have any problem with 15"'s. :)

-Vince