205 on 5.5's

[Zinhead]

My 74 GTV has the original 14x5.5 steel wheels. Since Yokohama doesn't make a 185/70x14 anymore, I would like to run the 205/60x14 AVS ES100. How will a 205 work with the 5.5 wide rims or should I start looking for 14x6 alloys?

[Alex Csank]

I would get at least a 6" rim for the 205. Although you can fit a 205 on a 5.5" wheel, the tire will exhibit much more sidewall flex than if mounted on a wider rim. The 5.5" rim was designed for the original tubeless 155 and 165 sizes, and although a 185/70 will work, a 6" rim is the appropriate size for the 185 section width.

By the way, there are other tires in 185/70-14 sizing. Are you stuck on Yokohama for any particular reason? The AVS ES100 tire seems to be a very good tire and I am also considering putting those (205/60-14 size) on my '69 Spider.

Cheers,

[borrani]

I had 205/60-14 Proxes R-1's mounted on my 14x5.5" turbinas and they did a fine job keeping my '67 GTV on the track.

Steve S.

[JoeCab]

Steve,

The Proxes RA-1 has a much stiffer sidewall than a non R-compound tire, so that is probably why you didn't notice too much flex.

Joe

[John M]

I am going to agree with Steve and say the Turbinas can handle a 205. I actually ran a 215 Yokohamas AvidT4s without rubbing. I did not notice any appreciable difference between them and the 14x6 daytonas in regards to handling. But I will add the 215s do match better with the daytonas as far as fit and less sidewall bulge. This was on a Spider. If you do have a great deal of suspension travel (running original springs and shocks) you will be more likely to rub so test whatever you get at the tire store.

Best Regards,
John M

[SILVERBULLET]

I HAVE 205/60/14 DUNLOPS ON THE ORIGINAL 5.5 TURBINAS ON MY 74 GTV. NOTHING RUBS, THEY STICK LIKE GLUE AND THEY LOOK GREAT. I FEEL A LITTLE SIDEWALL FLEX WHEN I REALLY THROW IT INTO A TURN WITH THE GO PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. BUT
NOT MUCH.