Does anyone have any thoughts on what they would consider total compression of the rear suspension of our Panteras under hard driving conditions?
I am currently attempting to measure back spacing/offset for some new wheels and tires. I have read the recommendations on back spacing/ offset but wanted to make sure that I came in 100% correct before I order wheels.
Therefore, I bought a tool that measures backspacing/offset while mounted in the actual tire you are using. I have removed the rear shocks so I can compress the suspension to verify if the tire is going to rub anywhere.
I am running Koni adjustable shocks on the rear. My rear lower a-arms are parallel to the ground so my car sits low.
The Koni website says the minimum length of the shock is 10.75 inches. However, without any shocks on the car the lower a-arm hits the stock exhaust when the suspension is compressed to about 11 1/4 inches (measuring from lower shock mount ear to top shock mounting ear). Therefore, the Koni would never reach it's 10.75 inches minimum length.
With the suspension compressed this far the rear tire I am testing (325/30/ZR19) hits the inner upper frame rail when I have the backspacing/offset set where I like it - flush with fender. I do not like the tire hanging out and actually like prefer it tucked up in just a hair if I can get it there. I am also okay with having roll the rear fender a little if need be.
Has anyone ever drove their car so hard that the rear lower a-arm has rubbed or hit the stock exhaust? I guess the potential is there but was just wondering everyone's thoughts. I don't think I will ever be in that situation but I don't want to ruin some high dollar tires.
Any thoughts or recommendations? I am considering dropping to a narrower tire. I know Foose's narrow bodied Pantera is running this tire and wonder if his would have the same issue under extreme compression.
Thanks.
Devin
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