From: "Bain, Christopher" <ckbain@uswnvg.com>
Date: Tue, 8 Jul 1997
Hey, Glenn ..
Thanks for the help on the fuel injector. It turned out to be the auxiliary air valve, and also my fuel pressure was a little low (25). I replaced the idle switch too, for kicks. Runs like a sewing machine now.
I have a different question, while I'm here... I'm going to replace my tires soon. Right now I have stock size 165/15's on my alloy wheels (the '70/'71 issue). I would like a wider tire if possible, but I don't want to screw anything up, nor change the wheels. Is this acceptable? And if so, how high would you recommend?
Thanks again for all your help.
Christopher Bain
Christopher-
I'm not sure I helped you much with the fuel injection, but you're welcome.
Many P1800 owners have put on wider-than-stock tires, and many are happy with them. You should be aware that wider tires are more difficult to steer than stock tires, and if you get them too wide, they might rub against the wheel wells and fenders on hard cornering, bumpy roads or parking manuevers. Also, tires that are too wide for the rims can flex more than they are designed to, causing premature wear and even failure under stress.
I have used only 165SR-15 tires on my car, so I'm not an authority on tire fit, but I tend to be conservative where mechanical things are concerned, and I would not use anything wider than 185mm on your 5"-wide alloy rims. I've been eyeing prices on 185/65-15s lately, although my Michelins still have plenty of tread. Some folks use the later 5-1/2" steel rims with tires as wide as 205mm, but personally I think they're asking for trouble.
-Glenn.