Wheel fitting thoughts...

[ricematthews at msn.com]

Gerard:
The 35mm offset combined with a wheel that is 2 inches wider will move the
outside of the wheel "out" - i.e. away from the centerline of the car - a
distance of about 1.4 inches.  As a result, I think you will likely have
clearance problems with the fender lips.  You may also have a clearance
problem with ther tie rod ends.  To get over the fender clearance issue, you
can roll the fenders or just pull them out, but this could be a long way to
go to clear those wheels.  Also, 8 inch wide wheels may be too wide for 205
tires (205mm is about 8 inches, but the tire's profile usually moves inward
at the rim) .
I'm not sure what they use in Europe, but I think the US A8 wheels may have
a 35mm offset.  I think that most US Spec. Audi 5 lug wheels, except the A8
and TT had the same lug pattern and offset (5x112mm / ET45 offset).  I can't
imagine why they would use a different offset for the Euro models.
-Mark
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Hi!

If a car takes a 15x6 rim and 205/65 tyres quite comfortably using an
ET45 offset, will a 17x8 rim with 205/50 and an ET35 fit? :)

I've probably been over this here on the list before and also in my head
and I think they'll fit. The wheel I'm looking at has plenty of rubber
overhang on the rims and 205mm is about 8 inches wide and it's not so
easy finding a decent rim in 17" size that is 7-7.5" wide and with an
offset of 45mm and I know a 35mm offset is used in Germany.

G.
--
1989 Audi 200


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