<VV> Re: Wheelz

[Padgett]

Ran some calculations and am now thoroughly confused. Used offsets, 
backspaces, treadwidths, tire diameters, and the Monty Pythagorean 
theorumumumum to figure the arc that the edge of the tread makes for 
different tire sizes and wheels. What I came up with was:
7.00x13 on stock 5.5: LM wheels:  12.8 inches
185x80 on stock wheels                12.6 inches
195x70 on 14 inch wheels*            13.0 inches
205x60 on 15 inch wheels**           12.9 inches
*  American Torq-Thrust D 14x6 3.3/8 BS
** American Torq-Thrust D 15x6 3 5/8 BS
(from AmericanRacing.com)

Given this, the 195/70/14 going to come the closest to the wheel well lip 
on a turn but not by that much more than the stock tire.

So I got out the tape and measured the wheelbase: 108.5" on both sides. 
That extra half inch would certainly explain why I had trouble with 195x70s 
when most find that 205x70s fit just fine. Measured the distance from the 
centerline of the wheel to the front lip (that had been "persuaded" a 
little) and got 13.2 inches. Centerline to rear of front wheel lip 15.8" hmmmm.

Drives fine and straight, even at high speeds but where did that extra half 
inch come from ? Factory tolerance ? Is there that much adjustment 
available in the front crossmember ? Yout wants to know.

Padgett