C2 / Wheels

[TL Wright]

I am planning to take off my stock wheels and hub caps and save them. I would like to get a set of mags for driving around. Can anyone tell me what size wheel and tire I can get away with? Including the backset, offset, etc. And what radial tire I can get that will clear the fenders with the same set of wheels. Also can I go larger tires in the back? And will they throw my speedo off?
Thanks

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 / Wheels

215/70R-15 radials on six inch wide wheels with +.060" offset will clear the fenders except with suspension jounce when the wheel is turned to half or more lock. You'll have to be careful entering steep driveways. Also, there might be some frame rubbing up front with the wheel at full lock.

This size radial has the same revs per mile - 775 - as the OEM 7.75-15 tire used from'65 to 67.

Duke

[TL Wright]

Re: C2 / Wheels

Duke,
Thanks. What sort of backset should I look for? I think the ones I have are 3-1/4. Is that the limit or do I have some play there?

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 / Wheels

I don't work with backspacing. Offset is a better parameter to use when working with wheel fit. You can measure the offset of a wheel by placing it on a flat surface with the inside facing up.
Place a straight edge across the inside flange of the wheel and measure the overall width and call this dimension "A"

Now measure from the staight edge to the wheel mounting plane, and call this "B".

Offset = B - A/2

This formula will give you the proper algebraic sign.

Duke

[TL Wright]

Re: C2 / Wheels

Duke, Again thanks.

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 / Wheels

One other thing. I suggest you post your question at www.corvetteforum.com , C1 and C2 Discussion. Some on that board have come up some short tire/wide wheel combinations that have worked on their cars.

Duke