17" Wheels for a 1985 Vette

[JAKE]

Hi all. A buddy of mine who doesn't have internet access (if you can believe that in this day and age) asked that I post asking if there is a stock 17" wheel - 9.5" wide, that will fit his 85 Vette without using adapters. Or if there is an aftermarket 17"x 9.5 wheel that he can use without adapters. As a fall back position, he's like to know if anyone in the Dallas, TX area can chrome his stockers. I told him I'd get back to him when I got the info he wants. Thanks to all. Jake

[59er]

Jake,

For that size he will have to use adaptors if he wants to use stock Vette 17's but most of the major aftermarket suppliers will be able to supply the 17's in the correct offset but you will probably need to determine the offset as a lot of those guys just can't be bothered to check it out and if they haven't got a listing then it's usually too hard.

If he's got 9.5" now, then measure the offset of those, but If he's got 8.5's he'll have to add the extra inch to either the outer or part outer and part inner.

If he's going to add some to the inner then he'll have to account for clearance of all components near the inner edge of the rim and he'll have to consider this at all points of the suspension travel.

I had an 85 before my current ride and I just had the old 16's polished and they looked great.

Your buddy should also consider the loss of ride comfort as there is a noticable difference between 16's and 17's.

Hope this helps.
Mark.

[gilbybarr]

Look at AFS ZR1 wheels....17", 9.5 inch. They make the correct offset
for the 84-87 C4's. They have a tire wheel package that is reasonable and
the quality is top notch in my experience. Made my 87 have a whole new personality!