Going from 14 inch to 17 inch rims on a 65 Skylark

Discussion in 'The Hides' started by Pastor Bob, Feb 17, 2023.

  1. Pastor Bob

    Pastor Bob 52 years of marriage trying to get to 53

    Based on some good experiences from members of this board (GS66 - Jim) - I am anxious to try 17 inch wheels on my 65.
    Jim proposed a 17 X7 on the front and a 17 X8 on the rear. He also suggested 215/55/r17 upfront and 235/60/R 17 in the rear..
    I think stock backspacing is 4.25inches on the 14 x 6 stock rim.
    Therefore I'm thinking I should go with a 4.25 or a 4.5 BS On these new rams.
    Has anyone else tried a similar set up?
    This will give a staggered look with the front diameter being 26.3 inches in the rear diameter being 28.1 inches.
    This means that when my speedometer says 60 mph I will really be going 64.6 mph
    I like the idea of the engine running easier at highway speeds.
    It's been a busy winter as I've managed to get the top replaced and had the front and rebuilt. Can't wait to see how it's going to pop when I get nowhere tires and wheels.
    My other option would be to go with 17 X 7"s all the way around.
    I'm so slow at making these big decisions. :)
     
  2. Pastor Bob

    Pastor Bob 52 years of marriage trying to get to 53

    Bad fingers make lousy typists.
    front "end"
    get "new" tires and wheels
     
    Waterboy likes this.
  3. sean Buick 76

    sean Buick 76 Buick Nut

    Personally I think I would go with the 17x7 all around with a 225/55-17 all around. That way you can rotate the tires for longer life.

    Running the taller tire in the rear may actually make your engine work harder as it reduces the gear ratio effectively.
     
  4. nekkidhillbilly

    nekkidhillbilly jeffreyrigged youtube channel owner

    i think a 235 would fit all around.id rather have them the same as well.
     
  5. Pastor Bob

    Pastor Bob 52 years of marriage trying to get to 53

    Well I went with 17" Foose wheels all around and went to 215/55/r17 all around. Total circumference is very close to original so very little speedo change I love the look.
    upload_2023-3-24_11-34-31.jpeg
     
    1969Lark and srobinr like this.

Share This Page