What size wheels and tires for flared fenders?

[Nader]

My Spridget has flared fenders front and back. It was previously used to autocross. It currently rides on 175 tires on 13 inch slotted mag wheels. I think they're five or 5 1/2 inches wide. I'd like to switch to the four spoke mag wheels I've seen. I suspect 205/60 – 13 tires on 7 inch wide wheels would fill out the flares. What sizes do racers use?

 

[Hap Waldrop]

I got a an array of choices, 13x6, 13x7, 14x5.5, and 15x6 all for Spridgets in the 4x101.6, or 4x4' bolt pattern. Call me if I can help.

 

[Nader]

Thanks, Hap, I was just checking out your website yesterday. I'll probably give you a call in a few weeks when I am ready to pull the trigger. Will the 7" wheels chew up wheel bearings?

 

[Hap Waldrop]

I wouldn't think so, 2Gs in a corner on 8" slicks on a race car don't seem don't seem to do so.

 

[Nader]

Good to know that. I was just wondering because mine needs new front bearings (amongst other things). With those flared fenders and whatever fat wheels and tires in ran in its autocross history, I was concerned about those bearings being a weak link.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Nader, tell us why you suspect wheel bearings. What's going on?

 

[Nader]

Jim, I took it to a shop to look at the hydraulics. They had the car up on the lift and told me it needed front bearings. I don't know if they actually looked at the bearings or just yanked on the wheel to check the play. I haven't had a chance yet to get it up in the air and have a look myself.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

If they don't do LBC could be bearings or fulcrum pins. MOSS Catalog has a page talking about bearings and front end issues if you haven't done this before.