Rim & Tire size for LS1 TA - NJFBOA - Home of New Jersey's Camaros and Firebirds

Fozzi58 · 03-24-2005, 08:55 PM

Been checking out new rims & tires. I like the HRE 547Rs but at $1000+ per rim, that's out of the question. My next favorite are the Z06 rims. T-Byrne motorsports has replica Z06's for about $280 each. I wan't the 18"s but I'm not sure of the width. Anyone had suggestions as to proper rim size as well as tire size? I don't want them rubbing when I turn the steering wheel lock to lock or bottoming out. 9.5"? 10.5"? Offset? Any suggestions??? Here's the link to T-Byrne's site.

http://www.tbyrnemotorsports.com/ls1catalog.html

Thanks for your input

j0n · 03-24-2005, 08:59 PM

i think the most popular aftmkt wheel sizes for 4th gens are 17x11 and 17x9.5 but i know that there hasnt been very many issues with the vette 18/17 inch wheels so find out what size they are stock and go with that

Injuneer · 03-29-2005, 11:00 AM

For a 4th Gen, you need the following offsets:

9.5" width - offset 40mm to 56mm. Â*The 40's will be almost flush with the outside of the fender and may rub. Â*The 50-55mm range will work the best, with no rubbing and a 275 tire in the front.

10.5" or 11.0" width (generally only used in the back), you need to stick with offsets in the 45-50mm range. Â*Anything less than 45, and the edge of the tire will be outside the fender line - rolling fender lip may be required. Â*The 45mm Torque Thrust II's are close to being outside the fender. Â*Anything more than 50mm with an 11" wheel will put the inside edge of a wide tire (e.g. 295/35-18 or 315/35-17) into the inner fender liner - hammeering required. Â*You might be able to push it to 52mm on an 18x10.5" wheel.

The problem with the Corvette wheels is that they have large offsets (= large backspace). Â*For example, a C5 Z06 factory 18x10.5" wheel has a 58mm offset, which equates to an 8.0" backspace. Â*Some people have found they need a spacer (5/16"+ longer studs) to keep the tire off the inner fender liner with those wheels. Â*It is sometimes necessary to shave the edge off the jounce bumper mounting bracket to keep it from catching on the inside of the wheels when they drop as you jack the car.

The newer C6 rear wheels are quoted as 19x10 65mm offset, and those would likely require a spacer.

Many aftermarket "replica" wheels are available in different than factory offsets, so you need to look kvery carefully at each case to make sure it will fit your car.