Need advice on tire/rim size for my 69 cuda

[gecko1134]

I am fairly new and I am building my first a body car, 1969 plymouth barracuda. I am learning as I go and have gained a lot of knowledge on here. So I want to first say thank you.

The question I need help with:

I have recently upgraded to BBP disc brakes off a 1973 duster on the front and new axles in the rear with 10x2.5" BBP drums. Since I had SBP, I have been looking for a set of rims and tires. I am currently looking at purchasing (2) 15x8's with 255/70/15's , (2) 15x7's with 235/70/15's. 5 on 4.5 bolt pattern, 3.75 back space. I believe the 15X7 rims should be fine which will go on the front, I am just not sure on the 15X8s. The tires are the major question in regards to whether they will fit or if they are too tall, wide etc . I don't have access to the car to take any measurements so I thought I would ask. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!

 

[1968FormulaS340]

Absolutely no way in hell will a 235-70-15 (28") fit on the front so we can scratch that tire off the list right away.

Your safest bet for the front will be a 215-60-15 (25.2"), maybe a 225-60-15 (25.6") if you are willing to trim the fender.

Another front option may be a 215-65-15 (25.9"). On paper it should work but in practice it may not.

For the rear, the 255-70-15 you selected is very tall (almost 30"). A 255-60-15 would be a better choice at 27" tall.

The factory tire was just under 26".

 

[gecko1134]

Thank you for the feedback. I appreciate it. At least I know the rims will work and what I have to look for in tire size.

 

[sireland67]

You really need to look into more backspace on your rims, 4.25 will work much better.
My car has 15 x 7 with a 3.75 backspace and it limits how wide a tire you can run.
The tires are real close to the fenders with alot of room toward the inside.

 

[smlveightis]

The rear wheel wells on the 2nd gen Barracuda's will allow for some good sized rubber in there. I am running 15" x 7", with 4.25" backspacing, steelies all the way around. IMO, plenty of rim for you needs. Runnng 215/70/15's up front, and 275/60/15's out back. Stock front suspension rebuild, and SS springs out back, with the addition of 1/2" spacers to get the tires away from the springs.

 

[gecko1134]

I will make sure to look for rims with a 4.25 backspacing as well. Again, thanks for the feedback. I will post pics soon.