Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Wheels & Tires wheel/tire question

I've lowered my 95 Contour SE with BAT European kit and I've purchased 17 x 7.5 rims. I'm considering putting B.F. Goodrich T/A G-Force KWDS all-season radials on in 235/45ZR17 size. I'm concerned about clearance problems. Does anyone know of clearance problems with this combination of wheel/tire on the Contour? If so please elaborate.

J.S.

To large a diameter. Look at 235-40 or 225-45. Go to tirerack.com. In the tire section under each tire, read the "specs".

I've been to tirerack.com and I've had a problem finding all season high performance tires that get a good review . . . its how I came to the T/A g-force KDWS tire. BFG doesn't offer smaller diameters in this tire line. I've also looked at Pirelli PZero Diaz. tires . . . good reviews for dry/wet, but no snow. Many types of driving conditions in K.C. metro area. Any specific suggestions for tire brands and model for all season high peformance or do you think I'm stuck with a dry/wet tire to get where I want to go?

Some people have rubbing problems with 225 and some get away with it. Personally, i wouldn't attempt 235. And, SVTee is right, 235/45 is too tall.

I scoured tirerack.com and came up with a tire size of 235/40ZR17 in Pirelli PZero Rosso's, Michelin Pilot Sport and Continental Sport Contact. O.D. for this size is about 24.4". The tires currently on the car are 24.7" O.D. (Kelly Charger P205/60R15). The rims are Ford 17 x 7.5 bought from BAT ao I assume these were also meant for a Mondeo somewhere along the line. I'm thinking this combo should work OK. Comments please.

Try the BridgeStone Potenza RE950's and a 235 would be a tad to wide, try either 215 or 225 40 or 45...

I've got 235/40/17s on my 98 SE stock suspension.. the tires rub on the outside, cosmetic damage only, when I get three heavy people or four normal weighted people when I go over larger bumps and what not.. I'm going to get the BAT euro suspension myself later this spring, and realize the problem wont be any better... if I were you I'd look at getting 225/40/17s at the widest, or even 215/45/17s would be great too... more rubber costs more money anyways. Good luck and post an update with what size you get and if they rub.

Kevin