Right size tyre for 7" deep rim?

Question

Currently I have 17" x 7.5" rims, and 235/45/17 tyres on the rear and 215/45/17 on the front. (I wanted 235 all round, but there was not enough clearance between the tyre and the strut tower on the front).

I am getting rid of those rims for various reasons, and the shop has many more new rims available in the 17" x 7" size. The shop guy said that 235mm tyres on a 7" deep rim was not a good idea and I may have increased tyre wear and reduced traction. What is the optimal tyre size for the 7" rim?

Also, will there be any difference to my front wheels with the 7" rim instead of the 7.5" (same tyre size, 215mm). I have about

1.5 degrees of camber on the front. I imagine the 7" version will stand a little taller ? (greater overall wheel diameter). How will this affect traction and handling?

Nate Nagel · Accepted Answer

I would guess "ideal" would be around 215 or 225. You want the tread width to be about the same as the rim width to keep the tire "square." To give you an exact answer you'd need to look at the spec sheet for the exact tires you're considering.

I personally don't see the big deal with 235s on a 7" rim though...

nate

John S. · Answer

Is this a tire shop?  If not I would use one.  The tire shops I've donebusiness should be able to match the wheel and tire.

Mike Romain · Answer

Stock, Jeep puts 225's max on the 7" rims.  They have an 8" rim for the235's or the 31x10.5's that come on some models.Mike86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '0088 Cherokee 235 BFG AT'sCanadian Off Road Trips Photos:  Non members can still view!Jan/06

lugnut · Answer

This is one location that shows your 7.5" wheel to be in theapproved range for a 235/45/17 tire.  Many of the tire mfgrssite have this info.

Right size tyre for 7" deep rim?

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