Just Got RX8 Wheels....And They Rub!

[heierlu]

I read a number of different threads before buying these, and I was under the impression that RX8 wheels fit fine with no rubbing and/or fender rolling on a Speed6. I just picked up a set of RX8 wheels with 225/45 tires on them and they rub something terrible in the back. It's obvious they stick out further than the fender. I tore up one of the tires pretty bad....grrr!! Has anyone else ran into this problem? Looks like I'll have to get a fender roller and hope I can roll them enough.

 

[bova80]

are you lowered? rx-8 wheels are wider than the regular speed6 wheels. you might as well roll your fenders. you'll definitely be able to roll them enough for rx-8's.

 

[heierlu]

Yeah, I'm lowered on the Eibach Pro-Kit. I'm just worried about rolling the fenders and cracking the paint. Is this a valid concern? If so, any recommendations to mitigate cracking the paint?

 

[1WICKED6]

Honestly you shouldnt have to roll your fenders with RX-8 Wheels...I had these wheels on my Mazda5 and I didnt have to roll anything and the 6 is alot wider then my Old 5

Just read the original post....I was running 215/35 and Venom was running 225/40 and neither of us was rubbing on our 5's

 

[heierlu]

Believe me, they need to be rolled. I'll take pics tonight. I tore one of the tires up pretty bad from rubbing on the fender.

 

[thewheelman]

That's strange. I had RX-8 wheels installed with 225/45/18 Kumho ECSTA SPTs after lowering the car with RPM streets, and had no rubbing. Is your alignment in spec? The only thing I could think of that would make the rear tires rub is if your camber was 0 or positive, or you have extreme toe-out in the rear.

I'm interested to see pictures.

 

[bova80]

as long as you keep heat on the area you are rolling you won't crack the paint. i rolled mine and the paint didn't crack. the only place the paint is chipping off now is where i forgot to roll and the 1 in 1000 chance that the tire hit that spot cause it to chip. I'll just have to sand that portion and touch it up, no big deal.

check your camber as well

 

[heierlu]

Problem solved. I got a hold of a buddy who had an Eastwood fender roller, and he let me borrow it. Rolled them last night, and it turned out perfect! No more rubbing in the rear and it looks great!