[Adrian Worman]

I've just managed to get myself a nice rechromed set of original Cragar SST's for my Chally, 15X7 fronts and15X9 rears, the fronts I can work out easy but how big a rear tyre can I get under the stock wheelhouse? Backspace is 4.5" and my springs are in the std location but the car sits a little low because I've used Hotchkis sport springs.
Any ideas

[dave-r]

Probably a 275 wide tyre mate. But fit the wheel without a tyre and measure. That wheel might be a touch too wide for only 4.5 backspace. You might have to cut the wheel arch lip.

[Adrian Worman]

I'd be happy with that size tire Daveman, fill the arch out real nice

Good idea fitting the rim on first and then laying under it to see the available clearance

[dave-r]

Use a straight edge in the wheel to clearly see how much room you have. I think you will be OK on the inside edge. You want an inch between the tyre and the rear section of the leaf spring. The leaf springs are not parallel with the wheel so make sure you check the back half of the spring.

[wolfman]

I have been trying to sort out what tyres I can get away with on a 8.5X 15 with 4" backspace. On mine there is only about 3/4" from the outside edge of the rim to the arch but I have over 5" height from the bead to the arch.I have used this site and found it very useful for reference. As my local tyres dudes are next to usless when you get technical
http://www.1010tires.com/TireSizeCalculator.asp

[Adrian Worman]

I thought I'd post these pics as it alway seems like a case of trial and error every time some one tries a new wheel and tyre...............
They are American Racing Daytonas 18"X9" with 285/45's on, they have a 5" backspace and they fit perfect against the inner wheelhouse and leaf spring, about an inch clearance.
The wheel arch lip is a little tighter but still about 3/8" clear though.
The tyre stands just bunder 28" tall.
Aint done the fronts yet but they are 17"X8" and will have 245/45's on and I cant see any issues, the rim trial fitted perfect on its own.
Look wicked tho, really changed the car

[dave-r]

Lovely mate.

[Eddie]

Looks terrific Ade! Nice work!!

[christer]

A great photo coverage!

[dave-r]

Nearly as big as the wheels on my Vette.