Wheel sizing

I have a 1960 chevy belair and I am getting ready to put some new wheels on my car. The ones that came on the car are not original and are tucked way too far inside the vehicle. I was wondering if anyone had any pictures or advise on what they have done or seen on 59-60 belairs. I have 15" wheels on it now with 195/65r15 tires. I think 15x5 with around 3.5 bs. I am going to do some measuring this weekend, but was curious if anyone out there had any thoughts. Thanks

 

I think it unlikely that you have that much backspacing on a five inch wheel. Most 15 x 5 wheels have about 2.5-2.75 rear spacing, 3 inches at most. Not to say you don't have wheels with more offset, just that they are a little unusual based on my experience.

A five and a half to seven inch wheel is what the factory would use with a 195 tire. There are lots of good (and not-so-good) choices for wheels that will fit your car. Good luck, and keep us advised how it works out.

 

I think the stock wheels on those cars DID really "tuck" a lot.

I have 14x5 GM wheels w/ 3.25 measured BS, so it's possible that your 15x5s are close.

195/65R15s are REAL short for a '60 BelAir. I'd run some 205-215 70 or 75 series 15s, or something more in the 26-27" tall range.

 

'60 Chevy's used the equivilent of a 205/14 tire, 215/14 on Wagons and Elkys.
Yes, they are set way back there in the wheel wells, especially compared to modern cars, but the too small actually and visually 195 tires are adding an illusion.

One caution, if you run "deep set" wheels on the front, change to roller bearings because the added weight on the outer bearing will eat ball bearings for lunch.
Wider rims centered as stock on the hub are ok (as long as they don't hit the tie rods)

 

Thanks for the help so far guys. I measured my wheels a while ago and the 3.5 bs is just what rings a bell. Could be wrong and I am just going with what I remember. I am going to remeasure and figure some stuff out. Thanks.

 

I have a 60 chev Parkwood wagon, I used 15x8 smoothies which are 4" back spacing. Car has 2 coils cut in front and 2.5 cut in back, no rub with Diamondback classic WW's 245 and 255 x 60 x 15's. The factory rims had a ton of positive offset.