Thread: Wheels for my 64 Elky

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Hi I have a 1964 Elky I'm looking to put 17x7 on front and 17x8 on the back. I'm wondering what backspacing I need? They make the rims I want with only a 4" spacing on the 7" and 4.5 on the 8". Will that work?

Thanks
Tim

I just recently went thru changing wheel sizes on my '62 Fairlane but only from 14" to 15". Even then I had to be real careful about the fender well clearance. I'm no expert but I think you need to look and measure clearances on what you have now and then see what your tolerances are. Good Luck and if you can post up some pics after you get the larger rims on it.

meller

Yup, what Em said! First information you will need is the width and backspacing of the wheels on it now!

Hi I have a 1964 Elky I'm looking to put 17x7 on front and 17x8 on the back. I'm wondering what backspacing I need? They make the rims I want with only a 4" spacing on the 7" and 4.5 on the 8". Will that work? I'm running stock suspension all around with disc front drum rear.

Thanks
Tim

Haven't you posted this already?

Originally Posted by MelloYello

Haven't you posted this already?

He did and the two threads are now merged.

You might consider posting/searching over on El Camiino Central where there are a bunch of '64/65 Elky owners sharing info. This resurrected thread has some info - look at post #11 & 12 - 1965 El Camino max. wheel/tire size - El Camino Central Forum : Chevrolet El Camino Forums Like Dave & Em have said, getting a baseline of your current wheel backspace, tires and clearances and then comparing to your chosen wheels & tires is the easiest. Another approach is to cut a plywood circle with axle cutout & bolt circle accurate to the center and the OD matching the new tires you want to run. Bolt a couple of long carriage bolts in place at a diameter 1/2 way between the wheel OD and the tire OD to match the tire section measurements to show widest spread. It works pretty easy for the back, with the front creating some challenges with the lock to lock positions but it will give you an idea. Or if you've got extra $$ laying around there's this - http://www.summitracing.com/parts/php-01201

Good ideas from Roger and, if I may add one more thing - - - - you can find a "cheap old used rim" that is the size you are wanting to step up to and, if it won't fit then nothing lost but lots gained and money saved.