Rim Size Advantages

GR8RALLY · #1 (**permalink**) 04-21-2002, 06:20 PM

First off let me say I've seen previous posts concerning the question I'm about to ask, but I can't seem to fiqure out "HOW"

to use the search up function!

My question is that for track use (1/4 mile) are 15" rims better or are 17"? Due to the fact there are a wider selection of slicks or "cheeter" slick size available for 15" rims, I was told that would be a better rim to use. Would probably use the cheeter slicks on the street as well. But I love the looks of the 17" rims. So, for a newbie like my self, what are the advantages/disadvantages of 15" to 17" rims as to 1/4 mile racing? Are 17" rims just better handling. Also if you want to give me a few pointers on searching the forum, I would appreciate that as well. HaHa!

Rod

Back in Black · #2 (**permalink**) 04-21-2002, 06:31 PM

A quick look in a catalog of slicks, DOT approved or track only, reveals pretty much all in the 15 inch size

17 or 18 inch with low profile tires would be the choice for road racing or street handling, but they tend to have a harsher ride

Michael C Henry · #3 (**permalink**) 04-21-2002, 06:59 PM

I was interested in the new Wilwood 13" brakes but found that it will take a 17" wheel to accomadate.I allready have16" Compomotives and will stay with what I have.The smaller the side wall the harsher the ride and in corners the less warning when the tires break loose. Life is all trade-offs. Look it all over first and make your choises.

Bannon · #4 (**permalink**) 04-21-2002, 07:14 PM

I can't speak about Cobras yet but I can tell you that when I switched from 16 inch stock rims to 17 inch Cobra R's on my mustang I lost two tenths in the Quarter mile. (Owned two separate mustangs had the same expereince with both after switching to the 17 inch Rims.) I beleive that if traction were the constant that the 17 inch rims will be slower due to the change in rotating mass. I have a buddy with a suped up Honda (Not my thing but he likes it.) He has had the same experience. Larger wheels, while gaining him cornering ability on the Road courses he runs, lost him time in the quarter mile.

JB

Just my $.02

Campy · #5 (**permalink**) 04-21-2002, 08:40 PM

GR8RALLY

Here's what I did.
I started off with a set of 15" Centerline Wheels. I also liked the look of a 17", so I recently sold my tires and wheels and I just purchased a set of 17" Team III HB's 17" x 11" for the rear and 17" x 8" for the front.
As far as tires, there's a lot to choose from. Check out:
www.discounttiredirect.com

A friend of mine was dead against buying Japanese tires, but I'm not too caught up in the "Must be All American" issue.

I purchased a set of NITTO's. NT555 Extreme Performance 245/45x17 for the fronts.

Check em out here

and a set of NITTO NT 555R Drag Radials 315/35x17 for the rear.

Check em out here

I have heard good reports on the Nittos.

If you want to go the "All American" route. They have BFG's and Dunlops. You will spend considerably more however.

Let us know what you decide.

427sharpe · #6 (**permalink**) 04-22-2002, 12:25 AM

Generally, it seems that 15" rims are better for drag racing. More selection of tires, and better ability to put the power to the ground. The short aspect 17" tires are great for road handling, but the stiff sidewall tends to make them broil when launching. A 15" slick will allow the sidewall to wrinkle, which lessen the amount of driveline impact to the chassis, which means the tires will hook up better with less chance of damage to the drivetrain. I run 17" PS engineering wheels on the street (and when road racing) but 15" Mickey Thompson DragMasters in Magnesium (copy of American TorqThrust D) when drag racing. I have tried the 17's drag racing, and have never been very happy. And yes, I have played around with different tires, treatments, air pressures, etc.. but still haven't gotten the 17's as consistent or as fast as the 15's.

GR8RALLY · #7 (**permalink**) 04-22-2002, 08:42 PM

Seems I'll stick with the 15" rims when I order the car. Once my wife increases my allowance (HaHa), maybe I'll consider going with 427 Sharpe's set up.( 15" at the track, 17" on the street and shows). Does anyone have any suggestions or sites I can go to for research on increasing the traction for the Ford IRS 8.8 rear in a Superformance? Is it just trail and error.