Tire Sized for Last Gen Car

rpz28
09-23-2005, 11:51 PM
I'm getting ready to upgrade my tires and wheels on my 02 Z28 and looking for advise/experiences on using larger wheel/tire combinations. I'm thinking of Z06 17" in 9.5" width width rims w/275 40 tires/same as SS tire option. also thinking about Z06 Corvette set-up which is 17's up front with 245/45s and 18 in rear with 275/35s. I'm wondering if I can squeeze taller tires in the wells. These combination seem like they'll leave a lot of room and you should be able to get bigger combinations in without any rubbing problems. I've done the height calculation and these combinations are close to the same height as stock 245 50 tires. What I'd really like to know is tallest and widest tire combination that will fit in front and rear wells and correct rim width and offsets. I'm not planning to do any other suspension mods that will affect ride height in wells or interference clearance to front sway bar.

crakpotjoe
09-24-2005, 12:45 AM
with the right offset 17x9.5 you can fit a 315/35/17 bfg makes some nice DR :D

-Crakpotjoe

Z95m6
09-24-2005, 01:29 AM
also thinking about Z06 Corvette set-up which is 17's up front with 245/45s and 18 in rear with 275/35s.

I'd suggest going either 17's or 18's all the way around, don't mix and match. I had Y2K vette 17's in the front and 18's in the rear, it was frustrating because you can't rotate the tires with out getting them busted down. I personally have 18in Z06's all the way around. I think 17's are too small.

Injuneer
09-24-2005, 09:03 AM
PLEASE post on the correct forum.... there is a "Wheels and Tires" forum for topics like this. A "search" or a simple scan through some of the posts there, and the FAQ that we're starting at the top of the page should answer your question.

Personally, I would advise against putting a 315/35-17 tire on a 9.5" wide wheel, against the recommendation of the manufacturer. It requires a 17x11 wheel, which will work with the correct offset.

Moving to "Wheels and Tires"......

rpz28
09-24-2005, 08:56 PM
Sorry for posting on wrong forum - my oversight. So what is the correct offset for 17's or 18's in 9.5 width? Thanks for comments above. It's helpful.

Injuneer
09-25-2005, 03:27 PM
A 9.5" width will work with an offset in the range of 45-56mm. Some people have gone as much as a 35mm or 38mm offset, but that puts the edge of the tire at or slightly outside the fender. With an 18" wheel, you might be able to go a little higher on nthe offset, but that moves the wheel deeper into the wheel well.