SL/R129: Going Wheel Crazy!
05-25-2011, 01:21 AM
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1998 SL500
Going Wheel Crazy!
Hello Everyone,
I am new to the forums, and while I have read a TON of information, this is my first post, thank you in advance for your help.
I recently purchased a 1998 SL500 (non-Sport) and I absolutely love it! However, I am looking to make some changes and I am starting with the wheels. Today I purchased a set of 'Alphard' wheels for an awesome price, (photo posted) off a newer model SL and I am about to order tires. I have seen pictures of these wheels on an R129, but I'm not sure if they needed spacers or new lug bolts, or as I am hearing 'had the fenders rolled?!'
I am looking to buy a set of Continental ExtremeContact DWS tires in size 245/40-18 front & 275/35-18 rear because that is the recommended size. However, is it possible to get a 245/45 (front) & a 275/40 (rear) in order to preserve a little more ride quality? The difference in the tires diameter is .9 to 1 inch taller. I did this on my Infiniti Q45t and there was no trouble, but not sure about the SL.
So, here is a recap:
Stock wheels all:
16x8 ET34 (225/55-16)
Alphards front/rear:
18x8.5 ET35 (245/40-18) or (245/45-18)
18x9.5 ET40 (275/35-18) or (275/40-18)
Do I need spacers, lug bolts? If so, what size and where do I purchase them?
I have used the offset calculators and it seems they may sit in a bit far and I'm worried they may rub. I have read and read so much and tried so many calculations, I can't think straight! I think I need someone with a fresh set of eyes to help me figure this out. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I am waiting to purchase tires until everything is sorted!
Thanks again guys!
I am new to the forums, and while I have read a TON of information, this is my first post, thank you in advance for your help.
I recently purchased a 1998 SL500 (non-Sport) and I absolutely love it! However, I am looking to make some changes and I am starting with the wheels. Today I purchased a set of 'Alphard' wheels for an awesome price, (photo posted) off a newer model SL and I am about to order tires. I have seen pictures of these wheels on an R129, but I'm not sure if they needed spacers or new lug bolts, or as I am hearing 'had the fenders rolled?!'
I am looking to buy a set of Continental ExtremeContact DWS tires in size 245/40-18 front & 275/35-18 rear because that is the recommended size. However, is it possible to get a 245/45 (front) & a 275/40 (rear) in order to preserve a little more ride quality? The difference in the tires diameter is .9 to 1 inch taller. I did this on my Infiniti Q45t and there was no trouble, but not sure about the SL.
So, here is a recap:
Stock wheels all:
16x8 ET34 (225/55-16)
Alphards front/rear:
18x8.5 ET35 (245/40-18) or (245/45-18)
18x9.5 ET40 (275/35-18) or (275/40-18)
Do I need spacers, lug bolts? If so, what size and where do I purchase them?
I have used the offset calculators and it seems they may sit in a bit far and I'm worried they may rub. I have read and read so much and tried so many calculations, I can't think straight! I think I need someone with a fresh set of eyes to help me figure this out. Any help would be greatly appreciated as I am waiting to purchase tires until everything is sorted!
Thanks again guys!
