QuestionHi, I have a 1978 Chevrolet Malibu that despratly needs a set of tires. I purchased a pair of BfGoodrich T/A drag radials (8.5 inch) and fitted them onto my 15 by 7 inch American racing wheels. Allthough they fit perfectly onto the wheel, there is not enough room in the wheel well.
I tried buying wheel spacers and placing them where they belong but with 1 wheel spacer there is still not enough room and even if there were my studs are not long enough. I do not want to go out nd buy offset wheels because I allready have ones I like, I dont want to pay for new ones, plus they dont make the ones I have offset. Is there anything I can do to fit them? Longer studs and more spacers?
AnswerHi Dave,
First of all,a couple of questions. How wide are your wheel wells? What is the backspacing of the wheel you bought? What is the P/N for the tires you purchased? These measurements are crucial to getting a proper fit. I would also ask that you take the following measurements:
1)Using a straight edge against the face of the brake drum, Measure from the narrowest point of the inner wheel well to the edge of the straight edge. What is this measurement?
2)With the wheel and tire assembled, lay the tire face down and place a straight edge across the tire so that it intersects the centerline of the wheel. Now measure from the backside of the wheel to the straightedge. What is this measurement? Make sure the tire is inflated to the pressure you intend to use.
All these measurements will help me determine the correct backspacing and fitment. I do not recommend using spacers. But if you are dead set on it you will need to change out your wheel studs for longer ones. Depending on the type of lugnut your wheel seat requires you might need different nuts. Only use billet spacers! do not use cast spacers as they have a tendency to crack.
Hope you understand this. You may also need to roll the lip on your quarterpanels. We can discuss how to do this after you get me the measurements.
