[Bob Kinee]

Alright, well i am looking at a set of 17x8 wheels for my Mark VIII with a 40MM offset. I was wondering if that offset is going to be alright being that my bird has 18x7.5s with a 40MM offset and those go pretty close to the outer lip of the wheelwell.

My next question is what is the best size tire option for that wheel. I like a lot of meat on the tire width but fear what will happen when I go too wide (especially because I have a module which lowers the car extremely low if need be). I just want to be able to cruise low but not rip off the tires on the bolts. I also need something to keep the traction when i am running, because my Michelin 225s on my factory 16s are not very grippy.

 

[fast Ed]

When you compare 2 wheel widths that have the same offset number, the difference in width will be split equally between the inside and outside. So in this case, you would have 1/4" extra on the inside, and 1/4" on the outside, compared to your 7.5" wheels.

Lots of people have 8" at +40 on MN12 and FN10 cars, that will be a good fit. As for tire size, that depends on your budget, and how close to stock diameter you want to get. 245/50/17 is a good choice, but there is limited selection in that size. 235/50/17, 235/55/17 are others that fit well. Some people go with 245/45/17, since there is a huge amount of selection available. But that size is about 1" shorter than stock, so you end up with a big fender gap on a stock ride height car.


cheers
Ed N.

 

[Bob Kinee]

How about an appropriate size for 255s?

 

[fast Ed]

Some people are running 255/50/17, which is a bit taller than stock. You may end up with a bit of rubbing in the rear, if the fender lips aren't rolled or trimmed. Another choice is 255/45/17, which is just over 1/2" shorter than stock, around 26.0" diameter. Less chance of interference with that size.


cheers
Ed N.