C4 Directional Rims 1984

[Bill B.]

Picking up car I bought in Calif (I am in Texas) and dawned on me that I think the rims where mounted in the wrong direction. I know my 90 has directional wheels/rims but does the 84 have both directional wheels and rims? What harm could have resulted if the 84 tires or rims or both have been mounted backwards?

I will correct when I get out there but what should I look for that could be dangerous as I am going to drive her all the way back to Texas.

[Joe L.]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

Bill-----

The 1984 wheels were directional and, consequently, are side-specific. However, no danger, at all, will be created by "reverse" installation. Brake cooling might be slightly compromised by such an arrangement, but for normal driving I think the practical effect will be nil. For the most part, I think that the directional wheels are mostly for appearance purposes.

Some tires used with the wheels may also be directional. If so, they will be so indicated by a directional arrow on the sidewall. For directional tires, it's much more important that they be installed properly if handling and tread wear are to be optimized. However, I don't think that any serious compromise to safety will be generated by "reverse" installation.

[Bill B.]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

Thanks Joe. I ask lots of questions and don't want to be a "spring-b tt" type guy in class. You have made me feel comfortable on this issue especially since it is a 1500 mile drive. I kind of figured more abnormal wear to tires could result versus any damage to rims. Thanks!

[William C.]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

When you do get to working on them, if my memory serves me, the Z-51 cars may have used a wider rear wheel, effectively making each corner of the car unique with the tire installed. Check it while you are changing the orientation.

[Duke W.]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

I recall that base '84s have 8.5" wheels all around and Z-51 included 9.5" wheels at all corners. The wheels have the same exterior styling features. They should also be marked as to which side they should run on, but you might have to remove them and carefully inspect the inside face to find the side code.

The wheel width/tire size bias occurred later in C4 production.

Duke

[Gilbert Scrivner]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

The base 1984 has directional rims as well as different widths front to back. As I recall the fronts are 8.5" and the rear 9 or 9.5". The wheels are marked on the inside that can be easily seen once the wheel is removed from the car. I just had my 1984 wheels off last week.

Gilbert

[Bill B.]

Re: C4 Directional Rims 1984

Thanks to all for taking time to help me! I just want to feel comfortable and now I do! Again, THANKS.