Heeeeeelllllllpppppp!!!
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 307
Likes: 0
From: Twin Falls Idaho
Heeeeeelllllllpppppp!!!
OK...just brought home a set of 91 sawblade rims for my 89, and did not even realize that the front sets are 8.5 inches wide, and the rear are 9.5's. Will 275's look funny all the way around with that difference on the front??? Please help me.....car show's tomorrow, and need immediate assistance. 
Safety Car
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 3,793
Likes: 9
From: VA
If they are 8.5 fronts, then they aren't from a 91.
Check your tire manufacturer's recommendation on rim size, but usually 9" is the smallest recommended for 275-40-17. That said, you can probably fit them on there - it's only 1/2" from the recommended size.
I've read that same size tire on different size rims can cause handling problems. No first hand knowledge.
Check your tire manufacturer's recommendation on rim size, but usually 9" is the smallest recommended for 275-40-17. That said, you can probably fit them on there - it's only 1/2" from the recommended size.
I've read that same size tire on different size rims can cause handling problems. No first hand knowledge.
Pro
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 517
Likes: 0
From: South Lyon Michigan
It might not look perfect but it should be ok, stock the 17X8.5 rims had 255/45/17 tires but a 8.5 wide rim is still within specs for a 275/40/17. I thought all sawblades in 1991 were 9.5 wide but I could be wrong about that.
I doubt that anyone will notice the difference except you.
For optimum handling/performance you should get some 255/45/17 tires for the front soon.
I doubt that anyone will notice the difference except you.
For optimum handling/performance you should get some 255/45/17 tires for the front soon.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 307
Likes: 0
From: Twin Falls Idaho
Is it going to handle differently? Will it look funny? I'm conflicted, seeing as how I'm going to drive it about 75 miles each way to the show. I just don't want problems...heaven knows I've had enough problems as it is! Am I making more out of this than there needs to be? 
Team Owner
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 24,337
Likes: 25
From: San Diego , CA Double Yellow DirtBags 1985..Z51..6-speed
I had 275 40s on a 17x8.5 wheel. Had absolutely no trouble with it. I wouldn't recommend it, but since you already have the tires, I don't think it'll be a problem.
It's not the best choice for good tire wear and contact patch though as it tends to roll the tread over and stress the sidewall more.
As far as the wheels, they'll bolt right up and look great.
255s on 8.5" wheels will give you better freeway steering, the wider the tire, the more it tends to follow ruts and grooves in the road. Zero toe really makes it noticeable, but you probably have a 1/8 or so toe in and will be fine.
It's not the best choice for good tire wear and contact patch though as it tends to roll the tread over and stress the sidewall more.
As far as the wheels, they'll bolt right up and look great.
255s on 8.5" wheels will give you better freeway steering, the wider the tire, the more it tends to follow ruts and grooves in the road. Zero toe really makes it noticeable, but you probably have a 1/8 or so toe in and will be fine.
Last edited by CentralCoaster; Jun 10, 2005 at 01:54 AM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 2,286
Likes: 2
From: Stamping Ground KY
I autocross with 275's on 8.5s in front, you can't see the difference without a side by side, there will be some slight cusp. They didn't seem to affect the cars balance.
CC brings up good points about wear and contact patch though.
CC brings up good points about wear and contact patch though.
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Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 307
Likes: 0
From: Twin Falls Idaho
Went to Les Schwab tires today to get the tires put on the new set of rims, and they declined to do that, stating that they feel there is a liability issue by putting a wider tire on a rim that is made for a smaller tire. The specs call for the minimum of a 9" wide rim. Needless to say, the old rims are on there until I can get a new set of tires. I was toying with the idea of some new Kumho's anyway. 
Racer
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 293
Likes: 0
From: Benoni Gauteng
If you run tyres wider than the rim size, when you corner you get side wall flex. If you use your car for normal driving, i doubt you will even notice it. but i'm sure you could find some one to swop you the fronts for 9.5's