Correct back spacing for new wheels

[TomGS72@aol.com]

Hello all,

I am getting ready to order new wheels for my 72 GS. I currently have 15 x 8 1/2" with a 5" backspacing. The wheels I want come 15 x 8", and not 15 x 8 1/2 like my current wheels. I have 2 back spacing options - 4 1/2" and 5 1/2". Would the 4 1/2" be the equivalent to what I currently have? I think the 4 1/2 would sit the same on the outside as my current and give me an extra 1/2" on the inside. Is this correct?

I'd like to get a bigger tire under it, but I don't think a 10" wheel will fit without wheel well mods.


Thank you.

Tom Jenkins

[Tyler Northcutt]

The 10" Wheel should fit with a 5.5" backspace. Do a search, there is alot of information about it.

[Tyler Northcutt]

http://www.v8buick.com/showthread.php?t=15046&highlight=15+10+wheels

This should help.

[TomGS72@aol.com]

Thanks for the reply Tyler...

I think I'll just stick to 8" wheels. My car sits way lower than the cars in the thread you sent.

Thank you for your help.

Tom Jenkins

[70 gsconvt]

To be "perfectly" centered in the rear wheelhouse, a 15x8 wheel needs 4.5" of backspacing and a 10" needs 5.5" of backspacing.........approximately.

[Tyler Northcutt]

Thanks for the reply Tyler...

I think I'll just stick to 8" wheels. My car sits way lower than the cars in the thread you sent.

Thank you for your help.

Tom Jenkins

No problem. I have been looking into this myself. Hopefully you get everything figured out. :TU:

[TomGS72@aol.com]

Which backspacing is correct for a 72 GS?

15" x 4" front wheel - Choices are 1.625" and 2.25".

Thank you.

Tom Jenkins