15x8.5, Backspace: 3.77 Wheels Only
#1
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
15x8.5, Backspace: 3.77 Wheels Only
I'm considering replacing my 15x7 Torq Thrust D wheels for AMERICAN RACING TORQ THRUST D VN105DG which are 15x8.5, 3.77 backspacing. I plan to use these with 255/60R15 tires.
I know this is a common size for various style of wheels. These wheels will extend out of the wheel wells about an extra 3/4" over the stock 8" ralleys and I'm a little concerned about them rubbing on the fenderwell.
I'd appreciate feedback from anybody who has this size wheels and tires installed.
I know this is a common size for various style of wheels. These wheels will extend out of the wheel wells about an extra 3/4" over the stock 8" ralleys and I'm a little concerned about them rubbing on the fenderwell.
I'd appreciate feedback from anybody who has this size wheels and tires installed.
#2
Safety Car
extending the wheels beyond the fenders, is asking When will I crack the fender,
Not will it crack the fender, get the offset correct. keep the wheels in the wheel well.
Not will it crack the fender, get the offset correct. keep the wheels in the wheel well.
#3
Here are a few pics for reference. 81 C3, 15x8.5 wheels with a similar offset, tires are 255x60R15. The ride height is a little high (about 3" to high) right now because it's in the middle of a restoration and isn't fully loaded. Not sure if there is any difference in the model years either. Hope this helps.
Last edited by Johnnycyclone; 09-09-2017 at 06:28 PM.
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Kid Vette (09-10-2017)
#4
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
Here are a few pics for reference. 81 C3, 15x8.5 wheels with a similar offset, tires are 255x60R15. The ride height is a little high (about 3" to high) right now because it's in the middle of a restoration and isn't fully loaded. Not sure if there is any difference in the model years either. Hope this helps.
#5
Drifting
Heres mine w/ TTO same size. 275/60/15 rear 245/60/15 front.Being TTO I had to have 8mm spacers to clear calipers.Yours will set 8mm in.As long as your spring and shocks are firm your OK
Last edited by gjohnson; 09-10-2017 at 09:51 PM.
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Kid Vette (09-11-2017)
#6
#7
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
Thanks for all the replies. I'd still like to hear from anybody who is running this exact wheel and tire size. I've collected a few pics which indicate they will probably clear but would like to hear actual experiences. The top of the wheel moves inward on jounce which should help them clear.
Heck, even Zora ran them!
Heck, even Zora ran them!
#8
Le Mans Master
Not your wheels but I'll throw this out there. I'm using an 8" x 15" with a 4.5 BS. Using a 1/2 spacer to clear the calipers. SO effectively I'm running a 4" BS. about the same BS as yours. I'm running 245-60-15s all around with no issues. The tire is slightly out of the wheel well. Probably about 1/2". The thickness of my spacer.
Hopefully some of this helps you.
Sounds like it will work fine imo.
Hopefully some of this helps you.
Sounds like it will work fine imo.
Last edited by Street Rat; 09-12-2017 at 08:39 AM.
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Kid Vette (09-13-2017)
#9
Drifting
Member Since: Aug 2015
Location: NSW, Australia
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C3 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
My wheels are 9.5" wide, 5" backspace, so stick out 0.5" further than stock. With 285 tyres all round the fronts tuck nicely, and the rears sit flush or very slightly proud of the arches.
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Metalhead140 (03-24-2018)
#12
Le Mans Master
Updated Combination
I just put 275-60-15s on 9" Weld wheels. 5 1/2" backspace with a 1/2" spacer for caliper clearance. They do not stick out of the fender wells or rub. I'll try to add a photo later today.
#13
Intermediate
Not your wheels but I'll throw this out there. I'm using an 8" x 15" with a 4.5 BS. Using a 1/2 spacer to clear the calipers. SO effectively I'm running a 4" BS. about the same BS as yours. I'm running 245-60-15s all around with no issues. The tire is slightly out of the wheel well. Probably about 1/2". The thickness of my spacer.
Hopefully some of this helps you.
Sounds like it will work fine imo.
Hopefully some of this helps you.
Sounds like it will work fine imo.
#14
Le Mans Master
Originally Posted by bigg_un
Can you tell me where you purchased the 1/2 spacers. Did you have to change the studs to get the spacer to work. Any info would be appreciated...
#16
Melting Slicks
Thread Starter
15x8.5, Backspace: 3.77 Wheels Only Please!
#17
1st Gear
Member Since: Dec 2018
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I've been in business since 1990 selling custom wheels and tires. Our website is www.bigwheels.net
In my opinion the American Racing Torq-Thrust II 1 Piece VNxxx one piece alloy wheels are the best fitting wheels and the best bang for the buck. They make them with offsets specifically designed for the C3 Corvette. They clear the OE 4 piston brake calipers and do not require any spacers. They fit properly and do not require any modifications to the vehicle. They are available in 15x8 -18, 16x8 -11 and 17x8 -11.
Several finishes are available:
Gray with a machined lip, VN215
Fully Polished, VN515
Chrome, VN615
Chrome PVD (dark tinted chrome finish), VN815
[img]http://www.bigwheels.net/wheels/american%20racing%20hot%20rod/torq-thrust_ii_1_piece_chrome_(pvd)_vn815_lar ge.jpg
Here is a picture of them on a stock height 1969 Coupe. 17x8 with a 255/45R17 tire.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. www.bigwheels.net
In my opinion the American Racing Torq-Thrust II 1 Piece VNxxx one piece alloy wheels are the best fitting wheels and the best bang for the buck. They make them with offsets specifically designed for the C3 Corvette. They clear the OE 4 piston brake calipers and do not require any spacers. They fit properly and do not require any modifications to the vehicle. They are available in 15x8 -18, 16x8 -11 and 17x8 -11.
Several finishes are available:
Gray with a machined lip, VN215
Fully Polished, VN515
Chrome, VN615
Chrome PVD (dark tinted chrome finish), VN815
[img]http://www.bigwheels.net/wheels/american%20racing%20hot%20rod/torq-thrust_ii_1_piece_chrome_(pvd)_vn815_lar ge.jpg
Here is a picture of them on a stock height 1969 Coupe. 17x8 with a 255/45R17 tire.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. www.bigwheels.net