i've usually always had a 35 sidewall on my cars, but was on coilovers so could adjust dampers for comfort. I think if you're sticking with stock suspension a 35 sidewall would be fine. Would also depend on how sensitive you are to ride comfort and the condition of KS roads. I don't think I would feel that much of a difference dropping from 40 to 35, IMO just go for the 35 sidewall for a better wheel/tire look.

 

I always wondered if the rubbings could have possibly been due to, blown front and/or rear Struts, unknowingly causing it ?

 

In my mind I was kinda thinking the opposite, as a 40-sidewall will fill out the wheel well slightly more, while a 35 would just have even more fender gap.