On an 8.5" rim I think the widest tire you can go safely would be a 255.Just 20k miles on my cabriolet, so almost time to replace the stock 255/40/19 PZeros. Will likely get the Michelins everyone recommends but want to go a little wider on these rims, which I love. Summer car, spirited driving but no racing. Not much of an upgrade guy, but have always looked to go a little wider on stock rims if possible when changing tires. Any help would be much appreciated.
Not on an 8.5" wheel. Anything more than 255 is an improper fit, even if it's possible. Some 265/40 tires may fit if they run narrower, but in general, 255 is the limit. Stuffing more tire on a narrow rim is bad for tire wear, handling consistency, and does not have a larger contact patch.
Not a chance on 9's you can use 265 and some 275 but not on a 8.5
Well I have 2 vehicles that disagree with you. Running 265s on 8.5 wheels on a 17 mustang and running 295s on a 9 in. wheel on a F150. And both are just fine according to the tire man. Web site. Now are they the optimal wheel size, no, but they are within the range recommended. So yes, you are right, the best tire size would be 255 for an 8.5 wheel.
I can only go by what the manufacturer says the tire will work on. But yes you are correct, they are not ideal for sure. Oddly enough, AM sales wheel/tire sets with 265s on 8.5 wheels. At least that is what they sent me.
