flare trimming for 31's?

I just bought an '01 with a 3" BDS lift and 31's. The guy I bought it from said the tires rubbed on the flares so he removed them. The tires look like they stick out a little farther than necessary so I'm wondering if a wheel with more backspace will clear the flares or if this is normal. I'll measure the backspace on the spare tonight.

I have 31's on 15x8" wheels with 3.75"BS and a 3.5" of lift. At full flex I rub my front flares as well as rubbing the rear a little. Its bad enough that if I where to have my tires turned left or right of center I'm afraid I woulld tear them off. I'll be trimming in a couple weeks.

*edit* Here are some pics....