Wheels

[c10]

I found some 17x9 rims today and i was wondering if they would fit on my 89 convert? They are Cobra R rims but im not sure what the backspacing is, im waiting for an email back on that info. Thanks

[CleanLX]

They can fit but you may need some wheel spacers depending on the back spacing and what size tire you decide to run....

[Mili M]

I got 17x9 all the way around on my 90

[slo5ohh]

They will fit as long as you dont have coil overs on the front.

[Gear Slammer]

17x9's on all four corner here too. 1989 gt

[CleanLX]

Yeah I have 17X9's on all four corners too yah blokes.
But we're talking about a convertible here, which has less room in the rear wheel wells than a LX/GT hatchback.....

[c10]

Well still no response on them rims so maybe get some new ones then. What would be the backspacing I would want? And what are the biggest tires I can fit on 17 inch rims?

[CleanLX]

Well still no response on them rims so maybe get some new ones then. What would be the backspacing I would want? And what are the biggest tires I can fit on 17 inch rims?

18mm back spacing seems to be the best fit for a fox. The lower off-set number the safer you'll be as far as clearance.

275 40-45 17 is a pretty meaty tire for a 17X9, although I'm sure you could fit something larger it wouldn't be ideal.

I have 245 45 17's up front, and 275 40 17's in the rear.

But remember your convertible has LESS room in the rear wheel wells than a non-vert, so keep that in mind.....

[SlippinJoe]

Yeah I have 17X9's on all four corners too yah blokes.
But we're talking about a convertible here, which has less room in the rear wheel wells than a LX/GT hatchback.....

why is this? I was unaware of this, please tell more

[c10]

But remember your convertible has LESS room in the rear wheel wells than a non-vert, so keep that in mind.....

So then maybe a different offset or just a smaller tire? I probably should have mentioned that someday this car will get lowered . I appreciate the input here.

[CleanLX]

So then maybe a different offset or just a smaller tire? I probably should have mentioned that someday this car will get lowered . I appreciate the input here.

A 245 45 17is a pretty safe size, and also very common on a 17" wheel. I would recommend those for your convertible. And I would recommend the smallest offset number you can get. Mine are 18mm.

[mnstang]

why is this? I was unaware of this, please tell more

just different bodies, have different shape, which results in more or less room in wheel wells.
i'm sure the verts have alot to do with the convertible storage area taking up alot of room and the body is different for all that, extra frame bracing, etc. but also the coupes have less clearance than a hatch also, but more than a vert.