QuestionThe rim width, I believe is 7". I really don't want to go to a larger rim. Presently there is rubbing of the inner wheel wells in the rear when I go over large dips in the road or large bumps. I thought it might solve this problem if I go to an overall smaller diameter, (rim and tire included). Is this feasible? Thanks.
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Followup To
Question -
I presently own a 1982 GX Mazda RX7, (since Brand New). I presently have Goodyear F1 245-50-16 F1 Steel tires on a set of KOESI 16 rims. I had to manufacturer stainless steel spacers/adapters to accomodate the 5 bolt pattern and the offset. I want to change to a lower profile tire without changing the rims. Can I do this? And how low of a profile can I go? I thank you for your help. By the way I show my car about 3 times a year. It is modified from the engine to the interior. Anderson
Answer -
Normally when folks talk about going to a lower profile, they also mean changing rims to a larger diameter. This maintains the overall diameter of the tire so the speedometer stays reasonably accurate. Obviously you're not doing that.
The limiting factor is going to be the rim width. I'll bet you have a 7" rim, so the 245/50R16 is the widest you can go. However, if you have something wider, then you could. But I would need to know what the rim width was.
AnswerIt is really important that we get the rim width right, beacuse an improper rim is going to cause some weird handling issues.
Based on what you've told me, your current tires have more load carrying capacity than the original tires - which I think are 175/70R13 82S. This should mean that you can go smaller in diameter and still be OK loadwise.
But check to make sure I'm right about the original tire size. The vehicle placard will have the original size and the inflation pressure for that size.
