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FRONT backspace..

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Old 12-26-2010, 05:59 PM
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FRONT backspace..

I realize backspace for rear tires is a really hot-topic subject, but you never see people discussing front backspacing. If the stock front rim on my GTA is 15 x 8, and I reduce it to a 15 x 7, would i be required to reduce/increase the backspacing of the tire? Should I run a 4.5" or 5.5" backspace? Thanks!
Old 12-26-2010, 06:07 PM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

teh stock rim on a gta would be a 16x8, if its a 15, its a 15x7, unless its a aftermarket wheel.

a 16x8 on the front wants to have about 4.5" of BS, which is the stock size, you can go a little deeper, no more than 5 or you will get into the tie rod.

15x7, would work with 3.5-4.5 depending on where you want the tire. 3.5 being just in from the fender lip, to 4.5 being an inch further in, and anywhere in between accordingly spaced.
Old 12-26-2010, 06:12 PM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

Originally Posted by //<86TA>\\
teh stock rim on a gta would be a 16x8, if its a 15, its a 15x7, unless its a aftermarket wheel.
16x8** that was a typo, planning on reducing to a 1#x7, I'll probably end up running a 17x7 with a 3.5 backspace then, thanks for the info.
Old 12-26-2010, 06:47 PM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

Originally Posted by Infested
16x8** that was a typo, planning on reducing to a 1#x7, I'll probably end up running a 17x7 with a 3.5 backspace then, thanks for the info.
Why go to a narrower wheel? Unless it is a drag racing only car, stay the same width (at least) or go wider & help increase cornering traction.

I have 17" x 9"/5"bs with 275/40sZR17s up front.

Last edited by Stephen; 12-26-2010 at 08:32 PM.
Old 12-26-2010, 07:30 PM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

Originally Posted by Stephen
Why go to a narrower wheel?
i have to agree, why not just bump up to a 17x8?
Old 12-27-2010, 10:08 AM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

Originally Posted by Stephen
Why go to a narrower wheel? Unless it is a drag racing only car...
The car is being built up towards a street/strip drag car including a big block so I am not too concerned about handling, smaller tire is less drag/resistance/weight is it not?
Old 12-27-2010, 10:19 AM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

Originally Posted by Infested
The car is being built up towards a street/strip drag car including a big block so I am not too concerned about handling, smaller tire is less drag/resistance/weight is it not?
Correct and why I asked the drag racing question. For drag racing,wider is not better up front, but for dual purpose, you wouldn't want 3" wide wheels & cookie cutter tires up front either, so yeah. 7" is a decent rolling resistance compromise between street & strip.
Old 12-27-2010, 05:02 PM
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Re: FRONT backspace..

The larger diameter will put the rotating mass back to what it would be stock if not more. Ideally you should go with a smaller diameter along with the less width.
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