I am looking to try something different this year. I have ran 245/45/R16's on stock wheels for the past few seasons. I think I would like to give some 17's a try. Here is what I have come up with.

Wheels: 17"x9" all around w/ 40 mm offset
Tires: 255/40/R17 Kuhmo Victoracers
Springs: Eibach (Not sure which ones, but I think it only drops the car about 3/4")
Shocks: GAB Super R's

I know this is close to the same combo that some others have had success with. The big question is, will it rub??? The wheels I am looking at only offer 30mm and 40mm offsets.

Constructive input would be greatly appreciated.

Jeff

 

That sounds good to me. I think the Kumho tires are 24.8" OD in that size (might be wrong -- that's from memory), which will be good for avoiding rubbing and keeping the gear ratios short for AutoX.

40mm offset should be fine, but might give you a little trouble in front. You will want to remove the fender liner fasteners at the top of the wheel arch, and maybe roll the fenders in front. Be careful about cracking the paint if you decide to roll the fenders.

30mm offset probably wouldn't work too well in front, but seems like it might work in back. It is probably best to run the same offset front and rear for the practical advantage of being able to rotate, however.

-Max

 

Yep

 

Thanks Max and SleepR1.

I was definately planning on using the same setup front and rear so I can rotate.

However, I was really hoping that I would not have to roll the front fenders. Do you really think it is necessary? Have you done this to your car? Maybe I should keep shopping for a wheel with a bit more offset?

I guess if I have to, I have to. I suppose there are a few threads on DIY fender rolling. I will do a search.

Thanks again,

Jeff

 

Fender rolling would be a precautionary measure as Max mentioned in his post. You'll be fine with 1.5 degrees negative camber dialed in.

 

Here's an option: Falcon Azenis Sport 245/ZR45-17 @ $121ea shipped. Meets SCCA street class requirements. http://www.discounttiredirect.com/

 

245/45-17 is too tall, unless you're talking about Kumho V700s or Hoosier R3S03s, both are 25.3 inches tall.

 

Whoops, nope I meant 245/40-17 (24.8") but the Falken's only come in 45's and I didn't notice that (sorry).

 

He's running ASP with R-compound rubber. The Falkens won't cut it. Falkens might be a good choice for guys using the tires for both street and track, they just don't compare to R-compound tires.

Ask the competition, me, in his class, same club.

Go for it Jeff (aRex-7)!

Jeff

 

I just mentioned fender rolling as an option if you get some rubbing. The tires can catch the metal fender lip and bend it out, especially during tight left-right or right-left transitions. You might not need it, though. Those tires are a good (small) diameter and with a lot of negative camber, the chances of grabbing the lip are much lower than they would be with taller tires.

-Max

 

Thanks everyone. I think I will take the plunge.

As for turbojeff, I need everything I can get to keep up with that dude! Letting air out of his tires between runs just isn't working!!!

I will let you know how things turn out.

Jeff B

 

Equipment gets you close, but SKILL is what brings you the trophies in autocrossing