last993

Hi,

I have MY95 and for the last several years, the car had the factory 17" cup wheel set up. It is also lowered w/ the H&R springs and factory shocks.

A couple of days ago, I received the factory 18" Carrera wheel sets from my wife as a gift and decided to them on my car over the weekend.

Here's my question. The rear tires hat came w/ the wheels is 285 compared to 255 that I had on my 17" rims. Does the car need to be realigned ? My initial test drive impression is that it's slightly drifting to left and does not feel stable over 75 mph+. Thanks.

P.S. I had the alignment done by Steve A. from Johnson's Alignment less than 6 months ago.

993chaz

Yes. <img border="0" alt="[cheers]" title="" src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" />

Mr Michael B

No, a tire/rim swap does not necessatate a new alignment.

Even if the overall diameter or the width of the tire were radically off, you still would not have any alignment issues.

Now if you were to lower the car via the springs, or update to PSS9's... Then you may need a new alignment.

You have not changed anything on your suspension settings by swapping wheels.

Guys drive to the track every weekend on one set of rims, then swap to a higher performing set once they get there - all the time. You don't think they are getting a new alignment before they hit the track do you?

Your slight pull maybe only tire related. I know my car pulled a tad when I bolted on my new 18's in comparison to my 17's.

I actually could change the pull direction by swapping the fronts. Now after 1000 miles or so I cant... It has disapeared.

I must be wearing the new 18's to suit the chassis on those on & off ramps! <img border="0" title="" alt="[Eek!]" src="eek.gif" />

STLPCA

I agree w/Michael. Your tire/wheel swap did not change the suspension geometry & would not require an alignment. However, the 18s will be more sensitive to some misalignment/steering problems that you might not have noticed w/the 17s. Also, new tires may feel "loose" for a while (as much as 1000 miles). If your tires are not unidirectional, I'd try swapping each end separately side to side to see if that alters your drifting/instability issues. That may narrow your problem to tires or suspension.

last993

Guys, thanks for your prompt response !!

Mike B. - that carbon fiber gear insert looks awesome on my car....even my wife liked it. Thanks for your help again.

Dan - every time I look at my steering wheel, I can't help smiling. Best and definitely the cheapest $$$ investment that I ever made on my P-car.

My next mod will be the new shocks....and Robin's RSR muffler. Looking back, I should have done these mods a long time ago. I don't know why waited so long. I am still amazed at how the 285s were able to fit in my car.....originally I was going to go w/ 265s. But those 285s, I tell you, looks GREAT. I will post some pictures later.

Mr Michael B

Jai!

Thank you! I am thrilled you & yours dig that carbon insert.

285's on the rear 'eh? LUV that!

Please - please post those pic's man. Cant wait!

993chaz

Sorry all, didn't mean to leed you astray with my "Yes" answer earlier. I tried some 18" wheels on my 86 911 and had to have everything re-aligned.

My Bad!!