I know that the smallest recommended rim size for 335 is 12". I am wondering if anyone has any experience with running this size tire on a 11" rim.
Any uneven tread wear or any rubbing issues? pictures would be great.
No experience yet. But a friend of mine tried 335/30/18 Kumho V710 on his 1999 with Mallett 396 11" wide wheels. Tires fit wheel OK but tire rubbed on rear wheel liner. He ended up exchanging them for 305/30/18's.
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Frank Plutt
'99 Mallett 396 coupe #99-009 c5rW1324 NCM#5174
Cleveland, OH
Location: The Beautiful Greater Bay Area California
Hi Mike,
IMHO: In general, you are correct in that 335's are best on 12 inch wide wheels. Moreover, in general, 315's (Continental offers this size, etc.) are best on 11 inch wide wheels. In my own experience, I have avoided installing tires that are either too narow, or, too wide. Frankly, I have seen my share of colleagues and mishaps at amateur racing events due to improper tire and wheel sizing that would encourage any enthusiast to adhere to safety and correct tire/wheel sizing applications. In general, if the tire size is far too narrow, one may increase the tendency for the high cornering stresses (extreme sidewall flex) experienced during high speed cornering, that may be conducive to the tire actually running off the wheel. Tires that are too wide display a noticeable low sagging bulge (dependent upon how much larger) in the sidewall, right on down to the tires' actual footprint. This symptom is conducive to sloppy unstable steering, handling and braking, as well as, the dreaded above mentioned runaway tire. Therefore, in choosing Plus 1, 2 and 3 upgrades over o.e. wheels and tires: Selecting the correct wheel offset, as well as, the proper tire sizes to the appropriate wheel sizes is paramount. Moreover, it is also best to choose a wheel from a manufacturer that designs custom wheels that safely accomodate brake caliper and wheelwell clearances. There are several well known wheel companies that do not do this for even o.e. calipers, thus, forcing the customer to actually belt sand brake calipers, wheels, and, add various spacers. All in all, I enjoy the improvements in braking, handling and steering that may be acquired with a proper (that which is correct for your vehicle and needs) Plus 1 and 2 wheel and ture upgrade. Please let us know what you decide to do and post a few pics of your pride and joy. Best Regards
IMHO: In general, you are correct in that 335's are best on 12 inch wide wheels. Moreover, in general, 315's (Continental offers this size, etc.) are best on 11 inch wide wheels. In my own experience, I have avoided installing tires that are either too narow, or, too wide. Frankly, I have seen my share of colleagues and mishaps at amateur racing events due to improper tire and wheel sizing that would encourage any enthusiast to adhere to safety and correct tire/wheel sizing applications. In general, if the tire size is far too narrow, one may increase the tendency for the high cornering stresses (extreme sidewall flex) experienced during high speed cornering, that may be conducive to the tire actually running off the wheel. Tires that are too wide display a noticeable low sagging bulge (dependent upon how much larger) in the sidewall, right on down to the tires' actual footprint. This symptom is conducive to sloppy unstable steering, handling and braking, as well as, the dreaded above mentioned runaway tire. Therefore, in choosing Plus 1, 2 and 3 upgrades over o.e. wheels and tires: Selecting the correct wheel offset, as well as, the proper tire sizes to the appropriate wheel sizes is paramount. Moreover, it is also best to choose a wheel from a manufacturer that designs custom wheels that safely accomodate brake caliper and wheelwell clearances. There are several well known wheel companies that do not do this for even o.e. calipers, thus, forcing the customer to actually belt sand brake calipers, wheels, and, add various spacers. All in all, I enjoy the improvements in braking, handling and steering that may be acquired with a proper (that which is correct for your vehicle and needs) Plus 1 and 2 wheel and ture upgrade. Please let us know what you decide to do and post a few pics of your pride and joy. Best Regards
Thanks for the input. I know what you are saying is dead on. I think I'll go with 315/30/18 on the 11s. I would love to go wider on the car, but without a mini-tube or the wheels sticking out past the fenders I am limited to an 11" rim. It's better to have a safe car that performs well instead of a wide tire just for show in the back...
No experience yet. But a friend of mine tried 335/30/18 Kumho V710 on his 1999 with Mallett 396 11" wide wheels. Tires fit wheel OK but tire rubbed on rear wheel liner. He ended up exchanging them for 305/30/18's.
I have these wheels with this size in Michelins and have no problems and they fit wheel and car great. I have a c4 though.
I have run for the last year and a half 335x17 grand sports 11" in the rear and 315x17 grand sport 11" in the front. approx 8-10 track days no rubbing at all KUMHO 710's and the wear is the same as if you were running the stock size. If you have set neg camber then flip the tires around after a couple-3 track days.
tkotzian, were you at PIR last weekend? If yours is the Red ZO6 that car rocks! = fast... Like he said the wheels and tires fit great, I'm now looking for a set.
Alot also depends upon the brand as each has different specs. I would suggest that you look at the manufacturers specs as some will save 11 - 13 where as others will be 12 - 13. As to the rub on the Mallett 396's that would have alot to do with the offset and whether the car is tubbed.