315 tires
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 5,768
Likes: 33
From: Van Steel Corvettes
St. Jude Donor '12-'13
Most require a minimum of 10.5" wide, some go as narrow as 10", but NEVER a 9.5". Can they actually be mounted? Yes. Is it safe? No.
You want 315's? Just get the proper size wheel combo. I like OE Wheels.
You want 315's? Just get the proper size wheel combo. I like OE Wheels.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 5,139
Likes: 482
From: H-Town Texas
I went one year with the Summitomo 315's on my 9.5 A molds.
Some things that I noticed were it would feel like it would 'wobble' a little in cornering. I think this was due to the strength of the sidewall being compromised. This was normal street driving BTW, I wouldn't even think of do this on a track or autcross.
The other thing I noticed was that it did not improve traction from a stop at all. Again, due to the oversize of the tire, it was 'pinched', so the actual contact patch of the tire to the ground was probably actually smaller as the tire was rounded more. This also caused premature wear in the center section of the tire. When I replaced them, the center section was completely bald, while the edges looked almost new. This with correct tire pressure.
Someone might think that lowering the tire pressure would increase the contact patch, but remember that that air pressure keeps it forced to the rim. If you take air out, you run the risk of the tire coming off the rim under a high stress event. This will also further compromise the sidewall strength and reduce handling.
So, while they do look cool, there are some very good reasons for not doing this.
Some things that I noticed were it would feel like it would 'wobble' a little in cornering. I think this was due to the strength of the sidewall being compromised. This was normal street driving BTW, I wouldn't even think of do this on a track or autcross.
The other thing I noticed was that it did not improve traction from a stop at all. Again, due to the oversize of the tire, it was 'pinched', so the actual contact patch of the tire to the ground was probably actually smaller as the tire was rounded more. This also caused premature wear in the center section of the tire. When I replaced them, the center section was completely bald, while the edges looked almost new. This with correct tire pressure.
Someone might think that lowering the tire pressure would increase the contact patch, but remember that that air pressure keeps it forced to the rim. If you take air out, you run the risk of the tire coming off the rim under a high stress event. This will also further compromise the sidewall strength and reduce handling.
So, while they do look cool, there are some very good reasons for not doing this.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2002
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From: Compound in the Grove, Ga.
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St. Jude Donor '16
I would stay with a 285 or maybe go to a 275 than you will be able to rotate front to rear for longer tire life. (as we all know the rears wear out first) 
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Team Owner
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With the 8.5 (255's) in the front likely the rotate is still NOT a possibility so you might as well maintain the stagger with the 285's OR maybe try to land a pair of 9.5's and then maybe do the 275's X 4.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2002
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From: Compound in the Grove, Ga.
2026 Corvette of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
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St. Jude Donor '16
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 259
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Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 259
Likes: 0
9.5 wheels all around
I should have clarified to start with. My CE has 9.5 wheels all around. We Gone knows this cause he sold me the car. Thanks again Steve. No, the rest of you don't know Will or his car. The front tires are new 275s, rear 285s. Rears are worn somewhat and am just thinking about replacements down the road. The 315s look beefier, and was just wondering if they would fit the 9.5 whels. Tire rack has pretty good specs on their tires, and some of the 315 tires they sell called for a 10 -11 in. wheel. Figured 9.5 is not far from 10, but I understand the seating of the tire and the bulging in the middle with a narrower wheel. Just wondered if anyone had tried it. I got feedback and now I know........THANKS TO ALL. 