Help with tire size please!

gregpucci · gregpucci's Garage

I would like to run a set of Fuch 6's and 7's on a 1967 912 Targa. I found a set cheap and the current tires that came on the rims are BF Goodrich195/50/15 front and 265/60/15 rear. Neither tire size works on my car and they will be tossed. The car is stock height and I would like to fill the wheel well with as much rubber as possible without rubbing or having to modify the fenders.

The fronts just rub the frame at extreme lock to lock but do not look right because of their low profile. Any recomendations on tire sizes with a taller profile that will work on the the fronts? Should I use a 185/60/15 maybe? Any particular brand recommendations from anyone?

The rears are too wide and will damage the fenders should I bottom out. With a proper tire is it possible to use the 7's on a '67 rear without have a flared fender anyway? Can someone recommend a size that they successfully use? Or should I toss them and find 6's for the rears as well?

johnvan8 · 05-07-2012, 01:23 PM

I'm currently running 195/60/15 with no problem with the fender lip.

Tony V · 05-07-2012, 02:53 PM

Greg,
Shoehorning 7" wide rims on a 67 is tough.
Probably have to roll the rear fenders.
Best to go with 6's front and rear as you can then rotate the tires.
I've found (on my 68) that 195X65X15 keeps the speedo close to correct and keeps the revs manageable on the highway.
Tony

Peter T. · Peter T.'s Garage

When I purchased my '68 it came with 215's front and rear - and which caused rubbing whenever I made a sharp turn. Two years back I replaced them with 205's and haven't had a problem with any contact since. (Rear fenders not rolled)

fbarrett · fbarrett's Garage

My '65 912 has sevens with 205/50-15 tires, unrolled fenders, and no rubbing. But: 1) it has 22 and 27-mm torsion bars, which limit suspension travel, and 2) it has spacers. Other folks here are giving you good advice about sticking to 6-inch wheels and going with 195/65 tires, but the only way to tell what fits is to try it. Individual cars will often accept different wheels and tires.

Since you already have the wheels, just buy a couple of used tires and try fitting them front and rear. Get a set of spacers, too, and you may need to install longer wheel studs. Even if the used tires fit, new tires may have slightly different dimensions. It's a process that just takes time, effort, and patience.

Frank
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