Max tire width for stock 97 wheels

[Zapper2003]

97 Bird with stock 16" 5spoke alum. wheels. It came with 235/55's on it and i see in the doorjamb the optional size was 245/50. What is the biggest I could get away with on the stock wheel and still remain within the height restriction?

['96 Z28SS]

i think about 255 is about as wide as you might want to go.

[Zapper2003]

255 because of the sidewall wanting to bulge out, making it nearly impossible to get it on the rim? or 255 because of rubbing?

['96 Z28SS]

sidewall deflection. you are a long ways from rubbing. i have 315/35/17 rear tires and they dont rub at all.

[Zapper2003]

Nice. So a 255/xx/16...what would be the xx number? i know a 245 50 fits...it wouldn't go to 45 would it, or would i have to stay 50?

['96 Z28SS]

Borrowed a tire size calculator and figured it out. Go with the 255/50/16 its only 0.4 in larger in diameter. that should be within size spec.

EDIT: you could stay with a 245/50 and have more selection. the 255's have a smaller selection. you wont notice much difference from 245/255. best bet would be find a set of 17x9's and get a 275. better look and ride. thats just a opinion/suggestion. i figure if you are ready for tires this might be the time to change to a bigger wheel. hope this helps

[tonyjnjz]

255/ 50s if u can find many tires made in that size...not commen...just stick with the stock size..theres SOOOOOOOOO many good cheap tires available in 245/50/16..