Hello, I'm building a 67 barracuda and have bought 215/65-15 with a 3.5 back spacing for the front of the car. without the engine being in, we are rubbing on the front of the wheel. Is there an alternative solution to this rubbing or... do i need to get different wheels?

 

First of all welcome to the forum... While on here be sure to check out the Mopar of the Month contest.. See the sticky for the simple rules and then you can help choose the winner.....

OK, where is your tire rub?? Tread or sidewall??? Inside or outside??? This will help figure out what is the problem....

 

welcome to the forum

 

Welcome aboard.

 

It is rubbing on the front in the tread. What i don't understand is why my wheel is not center in the wheel well, it is slightly forward. would you like me to attach a photo?

 

Welcome to the forum!

And yes, we like pictures!! Pictures speak!! lol

 

Well, I guess you found out the secret of the 67-69 Barracuda. You cannot pick out rim/tire choices without guidance. First question.. are you running the factory front brakes (small 4" bolt pattern), or have you upgraded to the disc brake conversion that uses 73+ parts and large bolt pattern?

Unfortunately, the first problem is your rim size. You need at least 4.25 inches of backspacing (on a 7 inch wide rim with factory bolt pattern) to move the rim far enough in that the 215/65/15's would even have a chance of not rubbing. I currently run a 225/60/15 (big bolt pattern brakes- adds .5 to the track width), but had to do bodywork on the front lip to adjust it enough where I didn't rub the front corner. You may benefit by making sure the car is within alignment specs. You may get a little clearance that way.

Just for an FYI, those that run 17" wheels, they recommend at least 5" backspacing (I think you can get away with 4.75 with a narrower tire) to make sure you clear everything. It is tight up front and requires some measurement before you get what you need.

 

Welcome!