I've got the "Chicken Hawk" Firestone 215 50R 17's. Is it possible to change the tire to a 225 or 235 60 17? Has anyone done this and how was the ride afterwards?

Thanks

Blue Lightning

 

225/50-17 will work. 235/60-17 will not.

 

Cool. What about 225/60-17?

Thanks

 

I think the 60 will be too tall and hit the bottom of the strut.

 

I'm not an expert but I was wondering the same thing. Maybe someone can tell us?

Blue Lightning

 

Hi "Blue", You'll need to keep your profile similar to what is on there to keep the speedometer working right and to prevent dragging. I think you can switch to a 225 with the same profile and not be off by more than 2% on your speedo.

If you want a better ride, change tire brands as the Firehawks ride hard. I went to the Kumho Solus KH16 (in the stock size) and love them. The ride is much softer, they are quieter, and behave a lot better in the rain. They seem to stick at least as well as the Firehawks. They may get lower mileage, but I don't really care. That was the single best mod I have done to Elvis since I bought him. I drove the car for 1,000 miles before I decided those original tires had to go.

I hope this helps. Check with Sleeper/SSGuy about going to 225's. I think he has researched that issue and can give insight.

God Bless, Marc

 

Ok following this subject, my HHR came with 215/55/16's. I would like a slightly higher profile, like a 225/55/16 or perhaps a 215/60/16. Any problems with either of those sizes. I know the spedo will be off 1 or 2%, but since there is that variation as any tire wears anyway, I'm not that concerned about it. I am, of course concerned about possible clearance problems.

 

What are you trying to achieve? Thats such a small change.....

 

Better ride with a slightly higher profile tire, also trying to fill in some of the empty wheel well space, particularly in back. I would like to go with Michelin Hydro Edge tires, but they are not made in a 225/55/16, but they are available in 215/60/16. Michelin Pilots are available in 225/55/16's. I have the Hydro Edges on my wifes car, and love the way they ride and handle, plus they feel like they are glued to the road in wet weather.

 

I thought so.. you have your eye on a particular tire set.....the 60's will have a difference of 1.3 inch or around 5/8" increase of tire height(below the spring), measure the gap between the spring base and tire top.There is a 2 mph difference, or 3.3%
The 225/55 will have a diff of .4 or less then 1/4" height increase/ 1 mph diff or 1.7%
If I remember right..the 225's have been run with no problems....don't think the 60's will work..anybody else?