Pharaoh1

Hey Guys, curious does anyone know if you can run 18" wheels on a W212 E63s if you trim/fab the front dust guards? I want to run a 18x9 wheels with more tire and a staggered tire setup. Thanks in advance

PeterUbers

Nope.

https://mbworld.org/forums/w212-amg/...-2014-e63.html

also, welcome, congrats on the 2016

this sticky may or may not help you in your ownership:

https://mbworld.org/forums/w212-amg/...-w212-amg.html

Pharaoh1

Thanks for the reply. I read these threads, but they don't 100% answer the question. Seems like the dust shield is the issue, but this can be modified. Then there's a pre-facelift W212 that clears 18s, linkage included, but it's a wagon. I'm not sure if the pre-facelift is different from the 2016. Any insight on this? I don't mind some minor fab to make them fit if it's only the dust shield.

Thanks for the other sticky, I'll check it out!

PeterUbers

let's just say I've never seen it written about on this forum, you'll be the pioneer and if you do it consider a DIY and I'll add it to the sticky

your point is well taken - the brakes are otherwise identical on the PFL but it's got a front diff and AWD system on the FL which likely is the reason (among others) for a more robust shield ... modifying it seems like it would be a non issue but it's bigger for an engineering reason for sure and the only change was AWD that I'm aware of

Pharaoh1

Thanks for the reply, I agree with you. I'll browse that main sticky in depth and maybe give it a go. Thanks for the candid feedback. Cheers

maxusa

You asked the correct question. The dust shield is not your only problem to overcome. The steering knuckle/link sizing and design leaves something like 11mm clearance with the stock 19" wheel. 4matic W212/S212 are stuck with the 19" wheels up front unless you are prepared to spend on serious mods. The rears do allow options.

Forum search is your friend. Here is a recent thread on the very topic: 18" wheels on AWD 2014 E63

Pharaoh1

Thanks for this feedback. I assumed the link was going to be an issue. Figured there might be an 18 out there that will clear, but again, that might turn into a huge hassle. 18s on this car would be amazing performance wise, so I'm still going to give it some thought/research. Might have to stick with 19s though, as you both noted. Thanks!

Cifdig

The cheapest and easiest most effective way to squeeze an 18" up front would be to have the barrels custom made in the front to be 1/2 inch bigger allowing it to clear the lower knuckle and outer tie rod nut.

Pharaoh1

I agree, this is probably a good idea. Thanks for the reply