Help, new tires 80 stang

[nburd]

My 80 convertible has '86 10 hole aluminum wheels and 225/60/15 tires. They rub the strut during a hard turn. What have folks been running? I'd like to go with BFG Radial TA white lettered but only have two sizes that will be close to the original metrics. 205/60/15, slightly smaller in diameter, but wider than the original 195's. or 215/60/15 slightly larger, but will these be too wide and rub the strut? Help please. Only $57 ea from online tire, so the price is equal.

I really want raised white letters and these are the only two choices today. If I go with blackwall, there are choices galore.

Advise please! I'll post pics of the stang with them when a size is selected and tires are mounted.

Thanks,

Norm

[evlgt85]

You may have a problem unrelated to the tire size. The reason I say this is that many years ago, when I still had the 10 holes on my 85 GT, I started having a really bad rubbing problem during turns. BAD. They were the stock size, 225-60-15.

Later on, I wound up changing out the ENTIRE front suspension and replacing it with all tubular stuff. Same wheels, same tires, no more rubbing. Now, I can't even begin to guess as to which magical piece was the trouble maker as I happily ditched my stock stuff for the other, but it's just something to consider and possibly look into.

I'm not a fan of straying too far from the intended tire fitment, to be honest. It often looks awkward and has the potential of not performing properly, either. Then there's the havoc on the speedometer...

But, again, you might want to check out your suspension as that wheel and tire combination really ought not have any rubbing issues.

[Motorcity]

1980 convertible? What kind of car? Ford didn't return to a convertible Mustang until 1983. Are you sure it is rubbing the strut? There should be ample clearance between the edge of that size tire and 10 hole wheel and the strut unless you have some severely worn out suspension parts. I think that the rubbing you are experiencing is the tire hitting the inner fender liner or the frame rail which is common with bigger wheels and tires on these cars. You may only need to add steering rack limiters. But, I would have this issue checked out before I bought ANY new tires.

[evlgt85]

1980 convertible? What kind of car? Ford didn't return to a convertible Mustang until 1983.

May I direct your attention to the Aftermarket Convertible Conversion (http://vb.foureyedpride.com/forumdisplay.php?f=101) section?

[Motorcity]

Wow! Very interesting. I did not know about the aftermarket attempt. I'd love to see one and compare it to Ford's convertible. Thanks!

[86GT2go]

I too would look for suspension parts bad, as a 60 series sidewall should not flex THAT BAD to rub the strut. Check the strut-to-spindle nuts/bolts for tightness, the strut or spindle in that area for wear, factory camber plates for bad bushings/loose hardware....maybe even front lower control arm bushings for degradation. Could even be a ball joint, or even maybe a wheel bearing.

[nburd]

Wheel bearings are new/adjusted with new rotors. Steering gear and suspension is tight. There are some rub marks on the A arm steel where shiny at the rear. Tires are evenly worn. Photo is attached. Check out my car at the 79-86 pages. It is a 80 convertible made by Intermeccanica. I was incorrect about the strut. It was fully extended when I noticed the shiney spot. It is normal strut wear, not from the tires.

Any votes on 215 versus 205s? I'd like to order today.

Thanks,

Norm

[nburd]

I want to keep the car original as much as possible. 225's sure look good.

[86GT2go]

Pic was kind-of nonconclusive info-wise. Perhaps you might just need a wheel spacer to make the later wheels play nice on an early car?

[82mustang]

you got it, the shiny spot on the strut is from the rubber dust boot that covers the shock shaft..