245/45/16 on a 16x7" rim (stock '89-91 T2) question
 

I have Nitto DR 245/50/16's on spare stock T2 rims (16x7) and know that I should have at the minimum a 16x8" rim. I am too cheap and that is the rim I have chosen and the tires fit easily out back.

I can see it bulge over the side but I do love the size in back and actually need it for traction (400ft/lbs+).

I am going to be ordering in the next 5-7 days Potenza S-03's in the 245/45/16 size and want the car to handle. I run S-02's up front (205/55/16). I also just ordered K2RD full coilover kit with AGX's and caster/camber plates to complement the tires.

What potential problems am I going to see with running a larger tire than is recommended for this rim size?

Of note..... I'm cheap and won't drop $1K+ on aftermarket rims. I also realize the front tires are too small and it will understeer.... but I got them for free :) so beggars can't be choosers.

I eventually plan to run 245/45/16's all the way around with Mariah Motorsport front fender flares on stock T2 rims if the clearance is there. If not maybe on 3rd gen rims with spacers.

Any and all input is appreciated.

-GNX7

8.5" would be better with 245's. With the bowing of the sidewalls, it puts uneven pressure on the tread on the road. Too narrow of a wheel will make the tread bulge slightly in the center (usually seen here in the states). Too wide of a wheel for the tire puts the pressure on the sidewalls(usually seen in Japan). Softer sidewalls lessen this, but if you use some tires with stiff sidewalls you might have a problem. Some Mickey Wrinklewalls would be decent I'd assume.
Food for thought. You can squeeze 265's in the back without modification. 9" wide wheels please. I've seen it in person. With all that power you have you might look into that. For me, with about (I'm guessing here) 230rwhp I might have, 225/50R16 Advan AVS Intermediates barely hold. and these are supposed to be pretty sticky with a treadwear of 160. I haven't yet run at a strip with VHT on it, so I can't really tell what it'll do. You, with your 400ft/lb+ should have a handful and a half. Hell, go balls to the walls and cut out the fenders then put some overfenders on. Then you'll be able to put on 315's or the like. ;) All it takes is money. :doh:

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