Tyre size for 416gsi

Having problems with your club car? This is the place for asking advice and help on technical problems. Resident experts will be on hand to help you keep your car in tip top condition
Post Reply
guynosborne
Club Member
Posts: 14
Joined: Mon Jun 27, 2016 9:44 am

Tyre size for 416gsi

Post by guynosborne »

I'm just about to replace both my front tyres, currently 175/65/R14 (the original size specified) They are obviously 'skinny' tyres, as demonstrated by a very occasional shimmy. I just wondered, before I progress, would I benefit from a wider tyre, say a 185? I should add, before you ask, I don't have power steering, so it is hard enough work as it is with the 175's. No doubt a new tread would help with the latter in either event.
Regards
Guy Osborne
itcaptainslow
Club Member
Posts: 1388
Joined: Thu Nov 15, 2018 1:22 pm
Location: Letchworth

Re: Tyre size for 416gsi

Post by itcaptainslow »

The shimmy is more likely to be caused by excessive free play/wear in a suspension component such as the trailing arm bushes, and/or a geometry issue. I’d have this checked and investigated first before deviating from standard tyre specification.
Mr Teddy Bear
Club Member
Posts: 2481
Joined: Sun Jun 10, 2012 3:01 pm
Location: Bristol

Re: Tyre size for 416gsi

Post by Mr Teddy Bear »

I think that you're meant to fit new tyres as a axle set to the back first and not the front wheels.
The larger wheels & tyres 185 x 55 will be very heavy without power steering. The 14" lattice alloys would be a better bet.
It must help [in terms of steering effort] to keep the car moving while applying full lock at parking speeds. I never see anybody doing it, or perhaps the driving test no longer teaches this particular technique?
Teddy Bear

216 Sli SRS Charcoal Met 1996

214Si Silver? Tempest Grey 1993
Post Reply