Subject: Re: New Wheels
Hello Tim. thank you for your reply. I had a feeling that I wouldn't get away with this lightly! My original wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP68 205HR15 Radials. These are as new with no wear, however, a lack of use by the previous owner has led to cracking between the tread. I'm not a great believer in old tyre technolgy so I purchased a new set of D type alloy wheels and fitted a very expensive set Pirelli Cinturattos that are now being remanufactured. These wheels are 3-5mms nearer the rear wheel arches, plus the fact the Pirelli tyre appears to be 5-7mms wider when under load, means under certain conditions the wheel arches are being kissed by the tyre! Obviously all new tyres have a reduced circumference, which in crude terms places the car 30mm lower. It is easy to do the maths on this, but what most forget is that it is impossible to calculate the inherrent properties of each tyre when under load! If I place the Pirellis on the original car wheels (which have just been blasted, sprayed & laquered)I do not appear to have a problem. Similarly I will put New Avon Turbosteels on the D Type wheels as they appear marginally narrower & should then clear the rear arches! I usually put 4-5000 miles on my cars each year so I run a winter set & a summer set. A new set of original wheels will be my last port of call if the Avons do not work on the D Type wheel! I do hope my waffle makes sense? Best wishes, Guy.
Guy Vinall