offset versus scrub radius Options

[r_towle]

Does it make a difference what the offset is on a wheel with regards to scrub radius?

It does not seem that it would, given the stock suspension, no custom struts etc.

Aside from that, what is the reason (aside from cost and availability) for using large spacers versus getting wheels that mount up with no spacer, yet are wide for flared cars?

rich

[andys]

You know, I have to appologize for throwing out some numbers before really thinking enough about what I typed.

The wider than stock tire has a centerline offset that I didn't consider (I'm going to assume stock is zero scrub radius). The wider tire has an additional 1/2" differential at the centerline to a stock 914 tire/rim. If I were to run the same backspacing as the stock tire/rim, then I would indeed have 1/2' scrub radius. Now, add to that the original 1/4" - 5/16" in my above post, the total scrub radius would be 3/4" - 7/8". Tire diameter plays a roll too, as the 17" tire is 2 1/2" larger in diameter than what was on the car in its stock configuration. As a former racer I understand this is just a bunch of words since what really needs to happen is to perform actual measurements, but I'm not that energetic any more :-(

Since I was intending to put the car on the track to tune and balance the chassis/suspension, I adjusted in a bit of camber; 1.2 degrees. I won't run that much on the street, but that amount of camber will probably result in increased steering effort as well.

Andys