I am building a 53 Chevy 3100. I have installed the front suspension off a 1972 1/2 ton Chevy. As you all know, it is wider than the stock straight axle. Any ideas as to what size wheels to install to keep the front tires closer to being in the wheel wells? I dont quite understand just what is off set and back spacing. Do I need positive off set ? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!! fasteddie1017
You are in luck now that they are making 17, 18, or even 20 inch wheels now. Your 72 has a 5 on 5 bolt pattern which is very popular so wheels are easy to find. The old 15 and 16 inch wheels would hit the ends of the tie rods if you tried to increase the backspacing much. You will have to see what diameter yours will require to clear the suspension and caliper. It will take 1 1/2" to put the tire back under the fender (2" is better) so with the standard back spacing being about 3 1/2" you add the additional 1 1/2" needed this will come to 5" total. Several of the wheel companies make custom backspacing but figure around $300 to $400 a wheel, not cheap.
Thanks for the info- do you think a 6" wide stock Chevy Rally wheel would make much difference? I plan on using a 195R 75- 15 tire. I would like to avoid spending $300 to $400 per wheel.
