BOWTIE 89
May 15th, 02, 10:31 AM
what would be a good tire size that would fit my 72 ss and not have any clearence problems? i have just re done the suspension with all new parts and want to change the wheels and tires to something new. i would like to use the cragar s/s or weld prostars
8 1/2 wide by 15 inch or maybe 17 inch if they will fit. i am new at this and any help wwould be greatly appreciated.
thanks
doug in alabama
70Bowtie
May 16th, 02, 12:59 AM
As far as 15'' wheels, the most common size people use on '70-'72 'Velles is 15x8 with 4 1/2'' backspacing. With these rims you can fit up to a 275/60/15 in the rear. You might be able to go larger but you may need to crimp in the inner wheel well lip to get a larger than 275 to fit. As for me I'm running 255/60s on Weld Draglites, but I have the wrong backspacing (5 1/2'') and the rim rubs on the shock mount when the car flexs, so if you go with 15x8s, make sure you go with 4 1/2'' backspacing! As for the front, 15x8 with 4 1/2'' BS, with a 235/60 will be perfect. You can fit 16s and 17s but I would check with a GOOD local tire shop before you make decisions if no one here with those chimes in. Happy motoring http://www.chevelles.com/forum/smile.gif
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'70 Malibu
355 L-31 Vortec
M-20 (2.56 1st)
10-Bolt 2.73 Open
Johnny O
May 16th, 02, 10:07 PM
Doug, I just put new wheels on my 71 (same as yours) I have 15 x 8 on the back with 5" BS, and I have 295/50's and have no problems at all, about 1 1/2" both inside and outside...they have a 10" tread width, about 12" section. I had 275/60's on 3 1/4" BS before these, and they were fine too. There is lots of room in those wheel wells...just measure first to be sure. John