4000 Wheels

[TMein@aol.com]

Upgrading from 14 to 15" wheels is the single greatest handling improvement
you could do to your 4000. I had a coupe ('86) and did the following (in this
order)
#1- w/stock 14x6 ronals, put 195/60/14 Yokahama AVS intermediate tires. Best
tires I've ever owned. Reduced roll substantially.
#2-at 80K, replaced shocks/struts(?) with bilsteins. Helped to reduce roll,
more controlled ride.
#3-replaced front end bushings, engine mounts (blew one, got another from a
junk yard, that lasted 3 months. Got another, new) and tie rod (one snapped).
Made front end more solid.
#4-Got lucky. Bought 15x7 Ronals from friend who was selling a 4000CSQ. These
are exactly like stock except for increased size and wonderful LIP! These
transformed the car (even with bald Michelin XGT's). Totally amazing-car was
much flatter through turns, less understeer. Had 205/50/15's. These were
actually "taller" by a slight margin (though a calculator might prove
otherwise). Only downside: rougher ride with some wandering on fwy.
#5-Installed rear sway bar. This helped reduce body roll a lot, too.

Finding 15x7 Ronals is next to impossible; I've seen 15x6 only. I have seen a
GT Coupe with the cool looking 5-bladed Borbet type wheel (might be
AAvantgarde or similar design available from Discount Tire). These are most
probably lighter than what you have. 

I have to admit, though I love the 200TW that i have now, I miss the red
coupe with sweet wheels and a leather interior (bought @ junk yard for $200!)
a lot. Every day I got into that thing, I was excited to drive it. And every
day, I liked looking at it. Sounds sick, but it's true. When and if cas$h is
available, I will build up the 200QTW with 15x7 Fuchs wheels, intended
acceleration "stage 1" kit, and new shocks and the factory roof rack. 
-good luck!
Twain '89 200QTW, fond memories of '86 GT Coupe (sold w/152K).

PS: Why did I sell the Coupe? It cost me an average of $2500/year in
maintenance for the last three years. THAT'S WHY!