Safe distance between wheel and strut?

[lukasbmw]

I was able to buy a set of 18x8.5 rims with a 44mm offset. These rims usually sell for $800 a pop, but I was able to get the whole set for $400 shipped...total steal. All four will need to be refinished but that's only $100 a wheel with a connections.

Anyway, I test fit them tonight. In the rear, they are PERFECT! In the front the come incredibly close to the struts. After the wheel was bolted up, it spun freely, but the distance between the wheel and the strut was paper thin...I'm not kidding. You might not be able to shove a nickel between the wheel and the strut.

I'll be rocking 215/35/18 so the tires will be actually skinner then the wheels. Still, I'm concerned about the distance. Do you guys think I'll have to run spacers to make this safe or will the clearance I have be enough.

I guess the only way to tell for sure is to bolt up these rims with tires and see what happens. However, I'm down for predictions.

Some of you will nut when you see these rims on the car. Others are going to make fun of me until the day I die. I could care less though as these have been my absolute favorite mags since I was 16.

-E

[Ryan Stewart]

my alpinas clear the struts only by a couple MM. Never had a problem, I'd hope the wheel doesnt wobble on there....

[Digitalwave]

I would imagine that even though they are close to the strut, they will fill the fenders out pretty nice because of the width? How much space did you have out the outside near the fenders?

[lukasbmw]

It's going to be damn close to the outside fender, BUT they do not stick out quite as much as the 17x8.5 MVR's (those had a 38mm offset) so I think I will be safe as the MVR's did not rub.

[Spaz]

mine is really tight too, i can barely finger inbetween the strut and the rim, it should be fine. i've never had a problem.

[randomtask37]

holla!

cant wait to see pics.

[BMW BMXER]

I can slide one piece of paper between my wheel and strut, 2 years now no issues.

If its really close there should not be a problem as long as everything is straight.

[Pedro]

when i had my 18x7.5 w/ +42 offset i used to rub pulling into fast food places because the drive were kinda steep.

If i were you i'd put them on and take some turns and some steep driveways and listen for rubbing, if you dont hear any take the wheel off and check if there are signs of rubbing when you turn. If no problems keep em.