Wider Tires?

[KillJoy]

Does anyone have 315's or any other wide tires on their MM in the rear.

Anyone have 9 or 10" wheels?

What are the widest tires you can fit on the factory wheels?

KillJoy

[HwyCruiser]

I haven't heard of anyone being able to get away with anything wider than a 305 drag radial. Even this may or may not require a thin spacer with the widened OEM wheel to clear the shocks. I just received my OEM rear wheels back from the widener and plan on going with a 295 street radial. Hopefully that won't require a spacer.

I also have a set of Konig 18x9.5 wheels that I run a 305 drag radial on. It has a 45mm offset, which pushes the tire out away from the shocks, but still just barely fitting behind the fender lip. I imagine if someone could come up with a 55-60mm offset 10" wheel a 315 tire might work, but you're definitely into custom wheel territory there. And that's still a big might.

Until someone gets to tubbing their wheel well (wonder who ;) ), spends some serious bucks for custom wheels, or starts sporting a a drag stance - we've just got to work with what we have.

[bigslim]

I have 305's on my 9.5 inch widened rear stock rims. No spacer was needed on mine.

[valleyman]

I have 295 Toyos on the widened rear rims. No spacers and no rubbing but there ain't a whole lot of clearance left between the shock and the tire.:bandit:

[Marauder.45]

What are you guys running on the fronts?

[valleyman]

What are you guys running on the fronts?
235/50 KDW2s.

[jawz101]

You might look at the thread in Alternative Automotive's section of the forums. The pics from Lidio give some ideas of tire fit.
here (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showthread.php?t=5427&page=2)
Lidio's pics from thread
Nitto 305's (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=18 28&d=1071182290)
Goodyear 295's (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=18 27&d=1071182020)

[John F. Russo]

I have 305's on my 9.5 inch widened rear stock rims. No spacer was needed on mine.


From other threads, I surmised that you had to have spacers which may decrease the safety of the design according to the comments on other threads.

What did you do to avoid them?

[bigslim]

I had no problem with rubbing. There is a fix that MarauderMike told me about that can be done. The washer spacer on the shock can be cut in half and moved to the otherside of the shock which changes the angle of the shock ever so slightly to open up enough room for the tire. This small mod does not change any performance of the shock. You may want to PM him for full details.

[SergntMac]

I had no problem with rubbing. There is a fix that MarauderMike told me about that can be done. The washer spacer on the shock can be cut in half and moved to the otherside of the shock which changes the angle of the shock ever so slightly to open up enough room for the tire. This small mod does not change any performance of the shock. You may want to PM him for full details. Y'all are over-driving a 305 wide tire on a 9.5" wide wheel, a limit set by tire and wheel industry engineers and specialists. This is not my personal opinion either, just Google it, K? Look for return hits with "rubber manufacturers association"?

Darryl...Y'all just told everyone on the 'net that 305 wide tires are cool without a spacer.

Then y'all come back and tell everyone on the 'net that without your secret shock mod, spacers are required. Which way does it flow? Are we safe? Or not?

In answer of the opening post question, our stock OEM 8" wide MM wheels do not support tires greater than 255 wide (such as 255/50-18, I'm speaking ot the 255/ number). Modified 9.5" wide MM wheels do not support tires greater than 295 wide, and this is 411 stated by industry specialists, who also happen to be the folks who make the wheels and tires we want to buy.

Once again, what we want is not always in our best interests. All around, the Marauder we see yellow crime scene tape. Be it engine mods, tranny mods, rear end mods, tires, tune, fuel, suspension and so on...There is a "no" line. Like your mom said "go ask your father" and then he said "go ask your mother". It's all the "no" line.

John F. Russo...Looking at the facts posted here, it appears that spacers are indeed necessary for 305 wide tires on 9.5" modified MM wheels mounted on a Marauder. The only way to avoid spacers is to cut and move something related to the shock absorber, something we have not heard about before. Without knowing more about it, my advice is to respect the "no" line.

[bigslim]

That is not what I said. I said that I "DID NOT NEED" spacers. I never had to do any alterations to my car. My car still uses the stock shock setup. "Read my lips", I said that this mod may help some. I don't need it. There are some that have had to used spacers but I have not needed them. As usual you take what I said out of context. Remember, you are not the "Marauder God". There are other fixes to problems that don't require the "Mac" test. As I have said send a PM to MarauderMike if you want to know more. I didn't say anything when you alter the dynamics of the suspension with your control arms. This is from the guy that just found more boost. Give it a rest.

Btw, my tires are not too big for my car.

[bigslim]

Hey Mac, why do think Lidio did the research on this and said it was ok? Why hasn't anyone with this mod complained of having tires too big for their car? Why should I listen to you and not Lidio, a well respected, nationally honored tuner:confused: ? Believe, I will keep going to Lidio for my advice, not you. :D

[STLR FN]

RUH RO here we go again. Jeeze o Pete. Will younz two behave? sounds like a bunch of school children on the playground pissing and moaning over sand art.

[jobrien8]

Mac, in regards to your statement that running 305's on a 9.5" wheel was out of context. BigSlim wrote that he had "widened" 9.5" wheels. Also the approxamatly 3/16" or less that the washer is relocated, is not going to alter any geometry to the extent that you are stating. This type of "chicken little" headlines aren't helping anyone. Many MM have the widened wheels with no ill effects that you state in your "yellow tape" scenairo.
That is all that I have to contribute to this thread.
jobrien8
Engineering Technologist
Ford Motor Company
Dearborn MI

[SergntMac]

Mac, in regards to your statement that running 305's on a 9.5" wheel was out of context. BigSlim wrote that he had "widened" 9.5" wheels. Also the approxamatly 3/16" or less that the washer is relocated, is not going to alter any geometry to the extent that you are stating. This type of "chicken little" headlines aren't helping anyone. Many MM have the widened wheels with no ill effects that you state in your "yellow tape" scenairo.
That is all that I have to contribute to this thread.
jobrien8
Engineering Technologist
Ford Motor Company
Dearborn MI Okay BigSlim, DJ and Jobrien8...I cleaned up my post. However, the topic desn't go away by sweeping up after myself.

I quoted BigSlim accurately, and my reply isn't about 9.5" wide modified wheels. I have a set myself and they function exactly the way I expect them to function.

It's about what size tire is supported by a 9.5" wide wheel, a question asked by another member here, John Russo, and yes, we have been around this block before. 9.5" wheels will support a 295 wide tire, nothing wider.

The wheel and tire industries share mutual standards for safe operation of motor vehicles. They set the rules, not me gents, and please don't believe just me. Check them out on your own? The industry standard says 305 wide tires need a 10" wide (or wider) wheel for safe operation, dry traction, adhesion in standing water, evacuation of water/snow (hydroplaning), inflation, wear, and so on.

Sadly, a 10" wide wheel isn't going to fit on a Marauder without some other modification, therefore, our limit is 295 wide on a 9.5" wide wheel, and we have known this for over 2 years now. When Lidio introduced his modified 9.5" wide MM wheel, we went through the wheel stuff, and I have to say it's one of the ten best mods to any MM, thank you Lidio. But, what size tire should we use on it?

I didn't have anything to add here until BigSlim posted, and when I read his misinformation to John Russo, I felt compelled to ask. I apologize for being overzealous in asking. I apologize to y'all, and to BigSlim individually. But, that doesn't change the misinformation.

What is the correct answer, gents? Spacers or not?

And, if you're going to offer another solution such as moving the shock, please spell this out as a mod others can print out or, comminucate to their wrenches. We have never heard of this mod before, we need to learn it fully, or, it's snake oil.

Again, I apologize for my flames, but the question remains. Let's try again?

[Brutus]

Nitto recomends wheel widths of 9.5-(10.0)-11.5 on their website for the 305's. I guess we shouldnt listen to them either. (sarcasim mine)

[KillJoy]

Folks, please don't get into a pissin match and get my thread closed. All of this information is valuable in it's own right.

Thanks

KillJoy

[bigslim]

Killjoy, all I have said is that my car did not need spacers. As with any car, there are variances between cars when built. It is a small variance but one that shows up sometimes when doing mods.

My car is fine with the 305 Nittos on 9.5 inch wheels. I know that there are some that when they put the 305's on their car the tires rubbed the shock a little. These were the people that had to correct their problem with a spacer.

I suggested that there was another way of making a correction. That one involved cutting the washer next to the shock and moving it to the otherside. MarauderMike did this mod and had no problems changing any of the vehicle's dynamics.

Mac, a lot of people have done contorl arm mods, Watts Links, sway bars, lowered springs and so on and you think that a 3/16 mods will change something? Killjoy, the spacer mod or the cutting of the washer will not affect any of the vehicle's dynamics. Good luck with whatever you do.

[KillJoy]

Thank you. Man, I was hopin' I could fit something a little wider on w/o having to get the wheels widened.

Looks like I am just gonna have to live w/ 255s :(

KillJoy

[MikesMerc]

Just for more information, I also run the Nitto 305s on my widened 9.5" rims and I also did not need to do any other mods at all. No spacers. No nothing.

By the way Mac, Brutus is correct. Nitto clearly states that the 305 can fit on a 9.5" inch rim. I'm not sure what super duper rule industry rule book you are referring to, but apparently Nitto missed class that day.

[Rider90]

I'm not sure what super duper rule industry rule book you are referring to, but apparently Nitto missed class that day.
:lol: :lol:

[King Fubar]

I think he was reading an umpires rule book. Anyway....I have 305's and the rubbung against the shocks is so minimal you don't even know it.

[MM03MOK]

There seems to be a "But..." in one form or another, more often than not. "But....I'm using a spacer." "But....I cut the washer." "But...I don't care if it rubs slightly."

Can we come to a consensus that there may be a "But," so professing emphatically that 305/45/18s on 9.5" rims are flawless across the board with no additional adaptation, isn't telling the whole story? This Board is about sharing ideas, isn't it? We need to share a responsibility for being forthcoming.

Simple as that...

One point not mentioned, in referring to the data on the Nitto website about what rims fit 305s....there is no mention of specific cars. It couldn't be more generic. They also don't mention any adaptation necessary either. We've proved here that in many cases, adaptation is necessary. So how much faith would you put into a generic statement from the manufacturer that's trying to sell you tires. They're telling you what you want to hear.

IMHO, I don't believe that this combo is a good idea, regardless of the adaptation used. There is no margin for error, no headroom. Think of blowing up a balloon. A balloon blown most of the way up still has some flexibility and is less likely to pop, compared to a balloon that is blown up to capacity and stretched so thin.

Y'all do realize you're only talking 3/8 of an inch? :rolleyes:

Caveat Emptor


I have the "Street Radials" on all four rims with no clearance issues at all (and I love them!). The sizes are:
NT555 Extream Performance
fronts: 245/45 ZR18 100W
rears: 295/45 ZR18 112W
The NT555R is the "Drag Radial" and is the only one available in the 305 size.

The 555 extreme radials are available in 295s which fit great. The 555R is the drag radial and they're available in 305s which rub the shocks if the car is jacked up but not in normal diving position. And you can change to the upgraded shocks for tons of clearance with either tire.

FYI --
I've got the 305 Drags and they rubbed my OEM shock--so I am using 5/16th spacer for now----someday I will do what Nut did--its called $$$$$ that went elsewhere--
Every MM is different--some do rub (305's)--some don't --don't know why--either you upgrade shocks to eliminate it or use spacers ( and those sizes will variey to do the job as well)----at the moment --I'm using spacers due to $$$ --everything is an upgrade($$$$) --
But for normal street use--I'd go with the 295's--they should work regardless of shock type----Tom


I have the 305 drag radials & the rub the shock tops a little, not enough to get whigged. I run Eagle F's in 295 for drivers & no rub..all on the wider rims. Good luck.

I don't think you would be able to go much bigger than the 305's.
When I put the 305 Nitto's on they rubbed against the shocks on both sides and I had to put spacers to gain enough clearance so they wouldn't rub. ;)
I used a 7/32 spacer which gave me about 1/4 inch of space between the tire and shock. If you go to big on the spacer you will have less lug/bolt for the lug nuts to grab onto which could be dangerous. Had I known the tires would rub on the shocks I would have gone with the 295's. Even though some say this rubbing is not a concern, I do not feel comfortable with it.:cool4:

I put my widened rims and 305's on the car in my driveway, I then drove my car only around the block, very slow, easy around the corners, and avoided any bumps.When I got back to my house after only going around the block I looked under the car and both tires had rub marks on them from the shocks. Don't get me wrong here, I am not disappointed or complaining about this. I love this tire and wheel combo and I am just looking for a solution. I would feel a lot better if the tires where not rubbing on the shocks when I drive the car. I believe the only solution is to use wheel spacers. ;)

Spacers are a temporary fix. IMO I would try and make the wheels fit any way you can before going to spacers. Spacers exponentially increase the shear loads on your wheel studs...this could put you in a dangerous situation.-Mat

I have 7/32" spacers on my rear rims...This size spacer still leaves the rims hub centric and it pushed out the wheels a tad...no rubbing anywhere. The studs still have quite a bit of meat (at least 8 turns ) on them so I'm not concerned about it.

I got a set of Marauder rims widened from the people Lidio uses. Same exact specs. I had them shipped in my trunk when my car was being returned from the Trilogy install. I took them to my local tire dealer & had the 305 Nittos put on.
While they were being put on the car we noticed that they were pushed up against the rear shock. They weren't just rubbing they were mashed up against them. I measured the rims to see if they made them to wide but they were exactly right. I went to Pep boys & got a 5/16" spacer. Hooray they fit. I was relieved and excited to get the car to the track but alas another problem pops up. Not enough thread in the screw. With the spacer there is only around 3 to 4 turns. The tech felt I would really be risking it beating on the car with little thread. I called "the dealer" from our site for advice. He told me that there is nothing available from ford but a speed shop would have a 3" screw. So I call a friend of mine who owns a speed shop & he has a 3" screw but as he's reading the print off the package he sees it says do not use with spacer. He is going to research this for me over night and hopefully will have something for me tomorrow. He also mention what I think is called a Gaskil bolt and he mentioned a spacer that comes with screws.
P.S. This is not Lidio's fault and I have been in contact with him since this problem arose searching for a solution.

[STLR FN]

Mary while you are correct in the " One point not mentioned, in referring to the data on the Nitto website about what rims fit 305s....there is no mention of specific cars. It couldn't be more generic" reference. One must note that all tire sites give the same generic reference and do not mention specific cars. Tire fitment is trial and error as to what will work and what won't, as Slim has said and others have proven, some 305's will rub and some won't. It's called dimensional variance in putting cars together. No two cars are exactly alike. Yes they are within a certain tolerance but they will not be the same.


On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion?

[bigslim]

Mary while you are correct in the " One point not mentioned, in referring to the data on the Nitto website about what rims fit 305s....there is no mention of specific cars. It couldn't be more generic" reference. One must note that all tire sites give the same generic reference and do not mention specific cars. Tire fitment is trial and error as to what will work and what won't, as Slim has said and others have proven, some 305's will rub and some won't. It's called dimensional variance in putting cars together. No two cars are exactly alike. Yes they are within a certain tolerance but they will not be the same.


On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion?
:hmmm: :popcorn:

[MM03MOK]

Tire fitment is trial and error as to what will work and what won't, as Slim has said and others have proven, some 305's will rub and some won't. It's called dimensional variance in putting cars together. No two cars are exactly alike. Yes they are within a certain tolerance but they will not be the same.Considering the discussions over the years here, this is important to point out again. Thanks, DJ.


On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion?The discussion has to do with what is said, not who said it. In doing my research, this subject has been bandied about for going on 3 years now. I believe this is the first we're hearing of a washer being cut and moved. That's an important find by MarauderMike and he needs to speak up. The more pointed question is, would that information have been shared if John Russo hadn't asked? What we don't need are comments like "RUH RO here we go again. Jeeze o Pete. Will younz two behave?" I think this has been a fruitful discussion. Sharing information is what this website is all about, right?

[mpearce]

I run the Nitto 305's on 9.5" widened wheels. No problems. There seems to be a quote from me ^^^above...warning about the use of spacers, and their potential harm to wheel studs. This comes from what I've seen friends do to their wheel studs on their turbo Buicks running spacers. Let it be known...that I do not need spacers on my wheels...and my wheels are not too big for my car. In fact...they look absolutely fantastic.

You can all go back to arguing now.

-Mat

[KillJoy]

So, lets place a little True Or False, shall we:

255's Fit on stock wheels: True or False
260's Fit on stock wheels: True or Flase
265's Fit, but on widened wheels: True or False
270's+ Fit, but on widened wheels: True or False

KillJoy

[SergntMac]

Let it be known...that I do not need spacers on my wheels.
You can all go back to arguing now.-Mat Thanks for the solid answer, -Mat, a solid answer has been long overdue. We'll bank on your advice, at least I will.

BTW, there is nothing wrong with an argument, it's the basis by we we determine many things, and hopefully with an outcome called agreement. An argument, or, discussion, such as this helps everyone learn something they didn't know before. Without them, all we would be doing here, is learning that Chuck Norris doesn't really exist.

On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion? Prolly not.

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.

And, with regards to you or Mike, your comments follow late in the game, and I appreciate the amusement. Makes me want to ask you the exact same question. Prolly get the same answer, but if you prefer that I not respond to any MCM posts of any nature and for any reason, I can do that. Can you promise reciprocity?

Let's tally...We have a credible resolution to the question of spacers, and that answer is no. Good, I'm very pleased we nailed it down.

Can we hear more details on moving the shocks?

[SergntMac]

So, lets place a little True Or False, shall we:
255's Fit on stock wheels: True or False
260's Fit on stock wheels: True or Flase
265's Fit, but on widened wheels: True or False
270's+ Fit, but on widened wheels: True or False
KillJoy
Here's one manfacturer's matrix, sadly it does not cover all the sizes out there.

http://www.yokohamatire.com/utrimwidth.asp

[bigslim]

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.

Mac, there was nothing confusing about it. You were the only one that had a problem with what I wrote.

I could not have stated any clearer than what I did. Maybe this time you will get it.

1. I NEVER NEEDED SPACERS!!!!
2. THERE IS ANOTHER SOLUTION: You will have to talk to MarauderMike about that as he has more information about that.
3. MY TIRES ARE NOT TOO BIG FOR MY CAR!!!! MY TIRES FIT THE RIM FINE!!!!

There are quite a few people here running this wheel and tire combo. Some have traveled many miles on this wheel and tire comb and have "NO" problems. People do what you want to your cars. I don't care anymore what you guys do. I'm sure that if you put bicycle tires on it "someone" will knock what you are doing.

[bigslim]

[Quote:
Originally Posted by STLR FN
On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion? ]


[Prolly not.

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.]

Your answer here Mac says that we had all of this because it was one of the MCM guys that had written this. This should not be the bases of what should be debated or not. I guess reading this we will be scrutinized about eveything we write or post here. It's a shame that we can't over this.

[RR|Suki]

All this is well and good, but I have wheels that could run 315's if you want first poster...
they are 19x9 as stock and were made custom so the offset is not 50... however they imitate the back space of 8 wide at 50 offset I.E. from mount face to the rear is 6 inches (same as stock) so if you widen 1" you are at 10" and have .5" more space in the back than a stock widened rim :D

[SergntMac]

[Quote:
Originally Posted by STLR FN
On a side note: I must ask, if Slim,who we all know is a MCM'er, and Mike who also is a MCM'er as well as myself had not responded in this thread would we be having this discussion? ]


[Prolly not.

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.]

Your answer here Mac says that we had all of this because it was one of the MCM guys that had written this. This should not be the bases of what should be debated or not. I guess reading this we will be scrutinized about eveything we write or post here. It's a shame that we can't over this. You really should read that over again, I say exactly the opposite. Guess I have to say it again...

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.

Yep, that kinda says it all...I don't care who you are, where you live or who you hang with. Anyone who posted what you did, would have earned my attention and inquiry.

[Zack]

My 295/35/18 drag radials rub the shock on the passengers side.
All the paint on the shock is gone to prove it.

[SergntMac]

My 295/35/18 drag radials rub the shock on the passengers side. All the paint on the shock is gone to prove it. Then prove it...Pics please?

[HotRodKristina]

On a similar note...

I want to get 20x9 and 20x10 Axis Pentas for my CV --- from what I glean from this thread, 10" is too big? I was going to run a 295/35 or a 305 on the back... guess I'm better off with the 19x8.5, 19x9.5 combo....

Sorry to take things off topic :banana: :lol:

Spanks for the info

[MikesMerc]

This thread is now a complete joke.

Slim's original post could not have been any more clear. His 305s on widened rims fit just fine. He needed no other modification. He simply mentioned that MauraderMike, who apparently did have a fitment issue, used a method of relocating the shock 3/16th of an inch by cutting a spacer. No where did Slim say he used this method, and no where is it written Slim needs to be responsible for sharing details about a mod he didn't need to do. Nor is he responsible for forcing MarauderMike to show up here and post about what he did to his own car.

Mary, you missed Mac's point. In one of his posts Mac was referring to what size tire fits on what size rim....period. He cited some "industry rules" that apparently many manufacturers in the industry do not follow because there are several websites that have 305 size tires compatible with a 9.5" inch rim....something Mac was saying was bad based on this "industry rule book." Fitment of a 305 tire on to a Marauder is a seperate issue.

So, lets' summarize:

Nitto specifically states that their 305s can be run on 9.5" rims. That's a fact.

Now:
Bigslim runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Mat runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
I run the 305s on my 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Lidio runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Dave runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Jerry runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.

And I am sure there are more examples of positive fitment.

Now, all that said, is there a time, due to manufacturing variances, that a 305 tire on a widened rim can rub the shock....yes. And when that happens, you have 3 apparent choices.

1. Don't run the combination
2. use a spacer
3. Use MarauderMike's technique (something we ALL would like to know more about).

Its that simple. There is no need for all this arguing.

Furthermore, when I look back through this thread I don't see Slim having to edit his posts for inflamatory posting like I do others. The way "someone" came out swinging against a simple and clear post Slim made is another obvious example of uncontrollable paranoia on "someone's" part.

Let's not make this discussion more complicated than it needs to be in order to conceal someone's need to start an arguement. This is not rocket science.

[TAF]

Now, all that said, is there a time, due to manufacturing variances, that a 305 tire on a widened rim can rub the shock....yes. And when that happens, you have 3 apparent choices.

1. Don't run the combination
2. use a spacer
3. Use MarauderMike's technique (something we ALL would like to know more about).

Its that simple. There is no need for all this arguing.



Or....for best overall results....

4. Switch to the QA1 rear shock setup and you have ALL the room the wheel well will handle...and better rear end handling to boot.....

http://www.legalknevil.com/albums/Marauder/akf.sized.jpg

[MikesMerc]

There you go! Make that 4 options :D

[RR|Suki]

There you go! Make that 4 options :D 5 options, get 10" wheels that have 7" at the back, and you'll be in better shape than the widened 8" which need 7.5" back;)

P.S. I.E. 18 (or 19) x 10" 50mm offset ;)

[Breadfan]

How old are some of you?

[Breadfan]

Just to keep this amusing, lets not forget the tire industry is like every other industry and engineers safety into their products. The lawyers and such folk won't let ratings go out unless they engineer in safety. So, any rating by the industry as a whole is going to be very conservative. Beyond that the individual manufacturer can validate their tire will work on a rim size as Nitto has done.

So in essence, the industry ratings are conservative estimates and a good guideline, but check with your manufacturer for their take based on their independent tests and validations.


...


BTW with my above post it's not intended to piss anyone off - it's just a rhetorical question as it's funny we're on the same forum, same car, same goal yet an innocent question results in people showing factions. WTF?

I'm not getting near it, nor do I dislike any of you less as an individual (I have great respect for all of you), but get together as a group like this and it's quite embarrassing.

[SergntMac]

This thread is now a complete joke....Nitto specifically states that their 305s can be run on 9.5" rims. That's a fact.
Now:
Bigslim runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Mat runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
I run the 305s on my 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Lidio runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Dave runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.
Jerry runs the 305s on his 9.5 widened rims without the need of any other mods.

And I am sure there are more examples of positive fitment. Yep...Here's mine!

I have Pirelli P-Zero Assymetricos in 285/45-18, mounted on stock MM wheels modified to 9.5" wide and purchased through Lidio.

This is my left rear tire, notice the clean band around the tire, just above where the tire bears Pirelli's name and size data. Why?
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/showimage.php?i=1924&c=3&userid=392

Here are three views of my left rear shock absorber, kindly note the "dust" rubbed from the shock. I've always talked about "just brushing the dust", without scrubbing the paint off the shock. Why does this happen with a 285 wide tire with the strongest sidewalls in the industry?
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/showimage.php?i=1923&c=3&userid=392
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/showimage.php?i=1922&c=3&userid=392
http://www.mercurymarauder.net/showcase/showimage.php?i=1921&c=3&userid=392

Now when Zack posts his pics of claim about paint removed from a 295 wide tire on a Lidio 9.5" wide wheel, we'll learn more.

Meanwhile, yeah, it's a joke, Mike. Something is really funny here.

[dwasson]

Had BigSlim not posted the confusing advice he did, I would not have asked for clarification. In fact, his response is lying dead in the water, because he has not come back to explain the process by which the rear shocks CAN be relocated, which may be even more helpful to others. This IS an important slice of 411, and I would ike to hear more on it. However, it remains true that if BigSlim had not opened the door, I would not have stepped through it, and I don't care where he live, or, who he hangs out with. Ditto for you and Mike.



Mac, I used the "wife test" on this. After seeing me laughing at this this thread, she asked me what was so funny. I told her that I had something I wanted her to read.

I had my lovely bride, who knows enough about cars to tell my Marauder from her Accord by color, to read this thread. I intended to ask her to explain the lessons learned and what ambiguity was there. Her first question to me was, "Who the hell is SergntMac? I don't know why he doesn't understand this. I do."

Mac, when you're in a hole, stop digging.

[SergntMac]

Mac, I used the "wife test" on this. After seeing me laughing at this this thread, she asked me what was so funny. I told her that I had something I wanted her to read.

I had my lovely bride, who knows enough about cars to tell my Marauder from her Accord by color, to read this thread. I intended to ask her to explain the lessons learned and what ambiguity was there. Her first question to me was, "Who the hell is SergntMac? I don't know why he doesn't understand this. I do."

Mac, when you're in a hole, stop digging. OMG, Dan! You're killing me! The official MM.Net jester has an opinion! ROTFLMAO!

Thanks, bud, I need this!

[Breadfan]

So wait I may be missing the boat here...beats me at this point, too tired!

[MikesMerc]

Meanwhile, yeah, it's a joke, Mike. Something is really funny here.

Your right Mac. You caught me. You caught ALL OF US!! We're ALL lying. It's all just a conspiracy to get people to buy tires that don't fit. Why? Because we all belong to a secret club that worships cars with tires that don't fit right. Wow...you finally worked the truth out.

Feel better?

Whew!

Paranioa.....there are treatment programs and medication for the condition.

[AzMarauder]

Considering the discussions over the years here, this is important to point out again. Thanks, DJ.

The discussion has to do with what is said, not who said it. In doing my research, this subject has been bandied about for going on 3 years now. I believe this is the first we're hearing of a washer being cut and moved. That's an important find by MarauderMike and he needs to speak up. The more pointed question is, would that information have been shared if John Russo hadn't asked? What we don't need are comments like "RUH RO here we go again. Jeeze o Pete. Will younz two behave?" I think this has been a fruitful discussion. Sharing information is what this website is all about, right?

Bunny,

I'm not sure if it's ever been put on the MM.Net.. ( I am a functional illiterate when it comes to the search engine) however this washer being cut and moved was spoken of like it was common knowledge when I was doing my research at the DreamCruise last year. I must have asked a bazillion questions at Lidio's shop, walked around measuring peoples tires, etc. Spacers and the washer modification were the two methods mentioned if the tires rubbed. I decided that I didn't want mixed rubber on the car (tread pattern) and the risk of having to run spacers etc. I went with the Nitto 555 295s.

[AzMarauder]

Or....for best overall results....

4. Switch to the QA1 rear shock setup and you have ALL the room the wheel well will handle...and better rear end handling to boot.....



Do these shocks needed to added both front and rear? How does adding them just to the rear affect the handling of the car?

[SergntMac]

however this washer being cut and moved was spoken of like it was common knowledge when I was doing my research at the DreamCruise last year. I must have asked a bazillion questions at Lidio's shop, walked around measuring peoples tires, etc. Spacers and the washer modification were the two methods mentioned if the tires rubbed. I decided that I didn't want mixed rubber on the car (tread pattern) and the risk of having to run spacers etc. I went with the Nitto 555 295s. "Mixed rubber" is not a good thing, you decided right. Front and back should match, but this is a whole 'nuther "mystery rule book" thingy.

But, while I get used to my new medication, and learn to deal with my paranoia through treatment and counseling, can you tell any of us more about anyone needing, or, using spacers?

It would be easier for me to explain all of this to my counselor, explain that I had some kind of 411 "blackout" during a drunken stupor, where I missed all the 411 on spacers and "washer cutting".

"Sometimes it's just not worth chewing through the leather straps"

Please help me, AZ, my mental health is at risk here. Perhaps my camera (though not perfect in my hands) is also likewise diseased? Help me soon enough, I may be able to send it back for repair.




This
is
really
getting
very
funny.

[AzMarauder]

"Mixed rubber" is not a good thing, you decided right. Front and back should match, but this is a whole 'nuther "mystery rule book" thingy.

But, while I get used to my new medication, and learn to deal with my paranoia through treatment and counseling, can you tell any of us more about anyone needing, or, using spacers?

It would be easier for me to explain all of this to my counselor, explain that I had some kind of 411 "blackout" during a drunken stupor, where I missed all the 411 on spacers and "washer cutting".

"Sometimes it's just not worth chewing through the leather straps"

Please help me, AZ, my mental health is at risk here. Perhaps my camera (though not perfect in my hands) is also likewise diseased? Help me soon enough, I may be able to send it back for repair.




This
is
really
getting
very
funny.

I do not recall who said they needed to use spacers... I know I saw spacers on at least one of the 305 equipped cars at Lidios. I can tell you the car was Black so that should narrow it down a bit! :rolleyes:

FWIW, my 295s leave a little "mark" on the inside to indicate very light contact under some driving condition ( I don't know what). However, I am running after market 18x8 -49mm offset ROH wheels widened to 9.5". So can't really use me as an indicator of what happens with the widened stock rims.

[mpearce]

If you have any problems with any tire, from Nitto, to Pirelli rubbing your shocks, please call Chuck Norris...

1 roundhouse kick to your tires will solve your fitment issues immediatey.

[KillJoy]

This is turning into a pissing match. Someone please close MY thread.

KillJoy

[AzMarauder]

This is turning into a pissing match. Someone please close MY thread.

KillJoy

KillJoy...

Don't be too sensitive... some information has come to light here... and if we get a description on the shock relocation it will have a been a very good discussion.

I know what I was told when I was at the Dream Cruise but I don't know that it is correct.. so I haven't given my "understanding" on the shock relocation.

[MM03MOK]

If the washer/shock discussion is to continue, please start a fresh thread.

Closed at Killjoy's request.