Can I use 235 wide tires on my 7.5in front rim?

[996scott]

I have a 2000 c2 with 7.5X18 in. rims on the front and 10X18 in the rear. I need to get new tires all the way around. I would like to get a little more grip in the front (less understeer). I now have 225/40 in front and 265/35 in the rear. Will going to a 235 or even 245 in the front give me more grip? Will either of those sizes be too wide for my 7.5in. rims. Any suggestions on a good size combination for front and back whould be greatly appreciated. I know wider rims would be the best, but I don't want to buy rims. I do have the Row 030 suspension if that makes a difference. Thanks for the help. Scott

[Loren]

If you are going to go over 225 in the front you will need an 8" or 8.5 " wheel. Doing so will also reduce the understeer somewhat.

If you want you can also go to an 285 rear with a 235 or 245 front and get a really good handling improvement - with just a slight increase in understeer.

[996scott]

Loren, thanks for the info. I guess I will stick with the 225's.I've also thought about just going to adjustable sway bars to improve the understeer. I don't know much about sway bars, but I've been told this would be a good set up with my Row 030 suspension I have on right now. I like the way my car rides now (not to harsh), will adjustable sway bars make it more harsh? I would assume it will only be a little more harsh when it is adjusted for the track or autocrosses, and will be pretty normal (how it is now) when it is set for just street use. Does any of that make sense? Any info on adjustable sway bars would be great. Can you suggest any particular bars? thanks again. Scott

[Loren]

If you want to use the GT3 adjustable sway bars then you will need to have the mounting points welded on. Several companies sell the parts including The Racers Group.

Wheels - I would really recommend 8" (or wider) in the front. If your 7.5" wheels are in good shape companies like Wheel Enhancement will give you a trade in on the old wheels. That is what I did.