Tire clearence problems

[Subtle]

The almost .5 inch smaller diameter(than 155s) 175/65/15 tires look too small relative to the tire well. But the tires that came with the car had no traction-even in the dry, and I knew that the 175s would fit without fussing around.

Also it makes for lower gearing and a lower ride height. As it is now, the front is a little too high, which has been OK as the 2L oil pan hangs down by 1.5 inches.

New plan: Have ordered a set of Conti 185/65/15, which are the same dia as the original 155s. This will raise the ride height by 1/4 inch as well more suitably fill the space. Somewhat taller gearing is good, and a friend can fit the 175s on his lowered 101 Sprint.

This then will make lowering the front by 3/8 easier to live with.

The alloy SZ replica wheels are thicker than the steel ones and the fronts will likely need spacers, so I've ordered a set of longer wheel bolts( 60mm long from the bolt head).

[cstlhn]

I would like to put the SZ replica wheels on my 101 Sprint. I am concerned about clearance issues. The car is in primer now and if I have to modify the fender wells I would like to do it now? Thanks,

David

[Subtle]

Five-inch wide wheels will fit 101s, my problem is going from a 175/65/15 tire to a 185/65/15. Five and half-inch interfere with the steering things.

With the right spacers, Gio is running the bigger size on his SS, which has less room than the usual 101s.

[tmlesko]

The tire "diameter" is the problem and the rub is usually at the front of the fender not the top, although the top is where the fender will buckle if you hit a bump with the wheel turned. See pictures attached. This does not happen on all Spiders, but does on many. Look closely, the wheel arch is not parallel with the tire diameter, it is closer at the front. The Centerline catalog has a nice description of tire diameter, you need a tire diameter around 24.5_ inches. Although there are many who prefer the skinny "shaved poodle leg" look of the 155's, I much prefer the wider tires to make the cars look like they are part of Alfa's racing heritage, 185's or wider. Hope this helps.

Tom Lesko
Hingham, MA usa

[Subtle]

Good points--thanks

The 175/65/15 are a little less than 24 inches.

The 185s are close to 24.5

[cstlhn]

I am trying to determine how to contact these people about their wheels. I can not find their contact information? Does anyone read Japanese?

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David

[tmlesko]

Try Andy Kress at Performatek - Home or 508-655-8079 I know he has gotten them for another AONE member.

Tom Lesko
Hingham, MA
not afraid to sign my posts

[alfazagato]

Alex, I have had some success with the Vredesteins in the 155 size on my Spider Veloce and SZ. They also look good in the wheel arch and of course do have a lower stance than a 165. The 175/70 x 15 on my Spider has given me very heavy steering and a diminished self-centering..I will revert to the Vredestein.

[cstlhn]

Quote:

Originally Posted by tmlesko Try Andy Kress at Performatek - Home or 508-655-8079 I know he has gotten them for another AONE member. Tom Lesko Hingham, MA not afraid to sign my posts

[Subtle]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Alex Subtle, I'd be really interested to hear more about your experience with these new tires, as I'm due to replace my Avon CR6ZZ 175/70-15 tires before long and I'm looking into other options, including the new offering from Blockley Tires. Alex.