Need advice on new wheels and measurements

[linjam]

I bought some new wheels, which are being shipped from Germany (see attached photos).



I need help figuring out tire sizes/spacers. My current setup is perfect in terms of wheel positioning and cannot really go any wider without rubbing.

CURRENT SETUP:

AMG Monoblock IIs
Front 8x18 ET 31
Tires — 245/40ZR-18 CONTINENTAL EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 XL
With 25mm spacers

Rear 9x18 ET 35
Tires — 275/35ZR-18 CONTINENTAL EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 SL
With 15mm spacers


NEW SETUP

AMG Styling Vs
Front 8.5x ET 25

Rear 9.5x ET 28


By my calculation, .5 inch wider wheels is 13mm wider wheels in front and rear. Taking into account the lower offsets of the new wheels (6mm lower in front and 7mm lower in rear), I have the following:

Front — 13mm plus 6mm equals 19mm, leaving 6mm to fill to get back to the 25mm spacers currently installed in front. (I could put a 5mm spacer up front to reduce the difference to 1mm).

Rear — 13mm plus 7mm equals 20mm, making me 5mm wider than the current wheels in the rear.

So, what tires should I get to be as close as possible to my current setup measurements? 255 or 275 front and 275 or 285 rear?

Thanks very much.

Jamie

 

[gsxr]

With no spacers, you could use 255+285 tyres on the new wheels.

With spacers, I'd stick with 245+275. (Don't mix/match tire widths... diameters must match!)

Up front, I wouldn't use more than a 15mm spacer. In the rear, 5mm spacer max. Personally, I'd go with the smaller tires and try NO spacers, then decide if you want to add any spacers afterwards. Spacers can cause issues with vibration, or amplify/exacerbate small vibration issues.

Remember these new wheels have 14mm bolt holes, and require R14 ball seats. Don't use bolts with R12 ball seats.

 

[Jlaa]

Remember these new wheels have 14mm bolt holes, and require R14 ball seats. Don't use bolts with R12 ball seats.

So @linjam needs M12/R14 ball seat hybrid bolts right? Otis Inc LA Hybrid Lug Bolt M12x1.5, 26mm shank, 45.5 TL, R14 ball seat, hex 17, zinc

 

[gsxr]

So @linjam needs M12/R14 ball seat hybrid bolts right?

Yes - if bolting up without spacers. Length is critical on the rear, IIRC these wheels would use ~28mm length hybrid bolts without spacers.

WITH spacers, it depends if the wheel bolts to the spacer (possible up front with 15mm), or through the spacer (if using 5mm rears).

With this setup already having low offsets I'd skip spacers entirely - but I'm generally not a fan of spacers, so I'm biased, lol...

 

[outrbnks]

I run a set of those same 22 spoke wheels on my 2000 SL500, using no spacers, and the special lug bolts as noted above, no problems at all

Looking forward to see what they look like on a E500E.

It can be a pain cleaning 88 spokes per wash, but I like the classy look of them on my SL..

I think they are a type of design that may look good on many models...

GL

 

[Kyiv]

@linjam, how much does the shipping of all wheels from Germany costs?

 

[linjam]

With no spacers, you could use 255+285 tyres on the new wheels.

With spacers, I'd stick with 245+275. (Don't mix/match tire widths... diameters must match!)

Thanks Dave.

Any other reason for going with larger vs smaller width tires? Performance? is it a simple calculation that the 255s and 285s will add 10mm overal width over the 245s and 275s respectively, or are there other factors about the tires that make it not a simple 1 to 1 calculation?

Up front, I wouldn't use more than a 15mm spacer. In the rear, 5mm spacer max. Personally, I'd go with the smaller tires and try NO spacers, then decide if you want to add any spacers afterwards. Spacers can cause issues with vibration, or amplify/exacerbate small vibration issues.

As I mentioned in opening, I currently have 25mm spacers up front and 15mm in the rear. The wheels will compensate for all of that in their width and offset, except for about 6mm in front.

Remember these new wheels have 14mm bolt holes, and require R14 ball seats. Don't use bolts with R12 ball seats.

So @linjam needs M12/R14 ball seat hybrid bolts right? Otis Inc LA Hybrid Lug Bolt M12x1.5, 26mm shank, 45.5 TL, R14 ball seat, hex 17, zinc

Yes - if bolting up without spacers. Length is critical on the rear, IIRC these wheels would use ~28mm length hybrid bolts without spacers.

WITH spacers, it depends if the wheel bolts to the spacer (possible up front with 15mm), or through the spacer (if using 5mm rears).

With this setup already having low offsets I'd skip spacers entirely - but I'm generally not a fan of spacers, so I'm biased, lol...

Thanks for the info on the bolts. Technically, the new wheels with no spacers would move the front wheels about 6mm inwards, so was thinking about adding a 5mm spacer up front to replicate current look, but still not sure how tire size affects this. Perhaps just getting the larger tires (255s) will compensate.

In the rear, however, I am already 5mm wider with the new wheels. If I get the wider tires up front (255s), then, due to diameter consistency, as Dave mentioned, I must get the wider tires in the rear (285s). This will put me about 10mm wider in the rear than where I am currently, and remember where I am currently is already right on the edge of rubbing. Again, I'm not sure if wider tires have any other benefits besides looks, such as more rubber on the road spreading the weight of any pothole, different handling performance, etc.

Are these calculations of mine correct? Do 10mm wider tires translate 1 to1 into 5mm more push to the outside?

I run a set of those same 22 spoke wheels on my 2000 SL500, using no spacers, and the special lug bolts as noted above, no problems at all

Looking forward to see what they look like on a E500E.

It can be a pain cleaning 88 spokes per wash, but I like the classy look of them on my SL..

I think they are a type of design that may look good on many models...

GL

Thanks, outrbnks.

Is the SL500 comparable to the 500E in terms of the lug bolts?

Yes, it's a crap shoot/test. I am hoping for an aggressive elegance.

@linjam, how much does the shipping of all wheels from Germany costs?

Kiev, the shipping was 95 Euros per wheel via DHL.

Thanks guys.

Jamie

 

[Jlaa]

@linjam, if I were you, I would do the 245/275 set and also do the 5mm or 6mm spacer up front as you suggest BUT ONLY IF THE SPACER IS HUBCENTRIC ELSE DO A 3MM HR SPACER WHICH IS DEFINITELY HUBCENTRIC. The challenge with such thin spacers is finding one that can engage the hub and also provide its own “lip” to engage the backside of the wheel. I was not able to find a 5mm-6mm spacer that has these qualities in the front, therefore I used an HR hubcentric 3mm spacer, which is thin enough to allow the backside of the wheel to still engage the car’s hub

If you look through some of my threads, you will note that I also have 18x9.5ET+28 in the rear. 255/285s rubbed in the rear on the inner wheel well. When I changed the tires to 245/275, the rubbing in the rear went away.

 

[gsxr]

Any other reason for going with larger vs smaller width tires? Performance? is it a simple calculation that the 255s and 285s will add 10mm overal width over the 245s and 275s respectively, or are there other factors about the tires that make it not a simple 1 to 1 calculation?

I was thinking strictly due to possible clearance issues, the 245/275 combo will be less likely to cause problems.

Are these calculations of mine correct? Do 10mm wider tires translate 1 to1 into 5mm more push to the outside?

I think you are including the wheel width in your maths, however I think that will affect appearance more than clearance... given the same offset and tire size.

As I mentioned in opening, I currently have 25mm spacers up front and 15mm in the rear. The wheels will compensate for all of that in their width and offset, except for about 6mm in front.

In the rear, however, I am already 5mm wider with the new wheels. If I get the wider tires up front (255s), then, due to diameter consistency, as Dave mentioned, I must get the wider tires in the rear (285s). This will put me about 10mm wider in the rear than where I am currently, and remember where I am currently is already right on the edge of rubbing. Again, I'm not sure if wider tires have any other benefits besides looks, such as more rubber on the road spreading the weight of any pothole, different handling performance, etc.

The wider tires are generally more for appearance, and 10mm won't have a major effect from behind the wheel. A side bonus is the smaller tires should be a bit less weight.

Thanks for the info on the bolts. Technically, the new wheels with no spacers would move the front wheels about 6mm inwards, so was thinking about adding a 5mm spacer up front to replicate current look, but still not sure how tire size affects this. Perhaps just getting the larger tires (255s) will compensate.

5mm differences would be really hard to spot from 10 feet away. I'd rather have no spacers and less possibility of vibration issues.

Is the SL500 comparable to the 500E in terms of the lug bolts?

Yes, the R129 chassis shares many suspension components with the 500E, and also share all the same wheel/tire fitments, and lug bolts. What works on the R129 should also work on the 500E.

 

[gsxr]

If you look through some of my threads, you will note that I also have 18x9.5ET+28 in the rear. 255/285s rubbed in the rear on the inner wheel well. When I changed the tires to 245/275, the rubbing in the rear went away.

Jlaa, where exactly did the rubbing occur? Any chance you have a photo of the contact area? 9.5 ET28 generally shouldn't touch on the inside of the rear anywhere. Changing tires to cure it means it's gotta be REAL close, somewhere...

 

[linjam]

@linjam, if I were you, I would do the 245/275 set and also do the 5mm or 6mm spacer up front as you suggest BUT ONLY IF THE SPACER IS HUBCENTRIC ELSE DO A 3MM HR SPACER WHICH IS DEFINITELY HUBCENTRIC. The challenge with such thin spacers is finding one that can engage the hub and also provide its own “lip” to engage the backside of the wheel. I was not able to find a 5mm-6mm spacer that has these qualities in the front, therefore I used an HR hubcentric 3mm spacer.

If you look through some of my threads, you will note that I also have 18x9.5ET+28 in the rear. 255/285s rubbed in the rear on the inner wheel well. When I changed the tires to 245/275, the rubbing in the rear went away.

Thanks, Jlaa. Any other comments related to my questions about wider vs narrower tires on the same rim? Performance/handling? Road pothole shock value? etc?

Also, does it translate in practice into a 1 to 1 ratio of 10mm extra width off the rim to 10mm when installed on the rim (5mm inner and 5mm outer)?

Jamie

 

[Jlaa]

Jlaa, where exactly did the rubbing occur? Any chance you have a photo of the contact area? 9.5 ET28 generally shouldn't touch on the inside of the rear anywhere. Changing tires to cure it means it's gotta be REAL close, somewhere...

My rubbing occurred at full throttle when going up steep hills. You may recall that I live in San Francisco. In fact I live on a steep hill . It may be that spudland or WASP-land, where @linjam lives, may have less hills.

 

[linjam]

Jlaa, where exactly did the rubbing occur? Any chance you have a photo of the contact area? 9.5 ET28 generally shouldn't touch on the inside of the rear anywhere. Changing tires to cure it means it's gotta be REAL close, somewhere...

My question also. I am already getting occasional rubbing in the rear on big road dips using a setup that is by my calculations, 5mm more narrow (8.5x18 ET 35 with 15mm spacers). I'm worried that being 5mm wider with the new wheels without spacers will make that worse? Are my calculations missing something?

I am using the limited spring in the rear. Not sure what spring pads are installed, but I have over 14" between the fender lip and the center of the wheel.

J

 

[linjam]

My rubbing occurred at full throttle when going up steep hills. You may recall that I live in San Francisco. In fact I live on a steep hill . It may be that spudland or WASP-land, where @linjam lives, may have less hills.

Washington, DC -- Swampland. Few hills. Just a sinking sensation.

 

[gsxr]

Also, does it translate in practice into a 1 to 1 ratio of 10mm extra width off the rim to 10mm when installed on the rim (5mm inner and 5mm outer)?

Tire sidewall width will vary slightly based on the wheel width. Meaning that a 275 tire will measure slightly different when mounted on a 11.0 wheel vs 9.0 wheel (the typical allowed wheel width range for a 275/35/18). Sidewall shape (rounded vs square-ish) also affects clearance when things get really tight. But yes, the difference is split equally on each side of the wheel.

 

[Jlaa]

Jlaa, where exactly did the rubbing occur? Any chance you have a photo of the contact area? 9.5 ET28 generally shouldn't touch on the inside of the rear anywhere. Changing tires to cure it means it's gotta be REAL close, somewhere...

My question also. I am already getting occasional rubbing in the rear on big road dips using a setup that is by my calculations, 5mm more narrow (8.5x18 ET 35 with 15mm spacers).

It was mostly in the right rear. When I bought the car, the previous owner had 255/285 tires on it, and he told me that he got some occasional rubbing from the rear at full compression. When the car arrived in San Francisco, I verified that it didn't take much to make the rubbing happen when matting the gas pedal up steep hills, so I replaced the tires with 245/275 tires less than a month after buying the car.

Here is a picture from the right rear.

 

[outrbnks]

Thanks, outrbnks.

Is the SL500 comparable to the 500E in terms of the lug bolts?

Jamie

In general you will buy the same "Type" lug bolt, whether it's for a 124 or a 129.

The bolt thread diameter is the same for 124's and 129's, 12M.

These wheels however are machined for 14M bolts with R14 ball seats, and it's the R14 ball seat which is needed to hold the wheels securely.

But the Shank length of the bolts is "Only" dependent on the specific wheel, not the car, and that will change if you use spacers or not.

As a general rule, your lug bolts need to stick out the back side of any wheel in the 17mm to 20mm range.

If your going to use spacers, the length of the bolts need to be increased by the size of the spacers.

If your speaking about two different size spacers front and rear, your going to need 10 bolts of one length and 10 bolts of the the other.

To me thats far too much trouble, no spacers, then 20 lug bolts all the same size... Good Luck

 

[linjam]

To me thats far too much trouble, no spacers, then 20 lug bolts all the same size... Good Luck

Thx, outrbanks. Much appreciated.

Here is a picture from the right rear.

My tech says that if I put my current still very new tires (245 and 275) on the 8.5 and 9.5 inch front and rear wheels respectively, the tires will look too small for the wheel cosmetically, in his opinion, but suggested trying it first before buying new tires. Same thing with 3-5mm spacers in the front — go without first and then see.

Tire sidewall width will vary slightly based on the wheel width. Meaning that a 275 tire will measure slightly different when mounted on a 11.0 wheel vs 9.0 wheel (the typical allowed wheel width range for a 275/35/18). Sidewall shape (rounded vs square-ish) also affects clearance when things get really tight. But yes, the difference is split equally on each side of the wheel.

Thx Dave, see response above to Jlaa.

Is there a chart showing width differences of different tire sizes on different rim sizes?

Also, you said these new wheels should fit naturally without rubbing. I’m already getting slight outside rubbing in the rear from big dips in the road, so how can these new wheels work as you say if I’m going 5mm wider with the same 275 tires? I’m already using the Continental DWS 06 tires, which are more rounded and thus are supposed to rub less.

More concerning is the rear wheels measure 14 inches from the center of the center cap to the fender lip (with 3/4 full gas tank), half an inch less than your recommended 13.5 inches, IIRC, and yet still rubbing.

So:

1. The new Styling V 22 spoke wheels are supposed to fit with 275 or 285 tires in rear with no rubbing.

2. My current setup is 5mm less wide in the rear on 275 tires with 14" center to fender lip measurement, and yet I have occasional outside rubbing on big road dips. Given point 1 above, how is this rubbing possible?

3. 285 tires are wider than 275 by 10mm but a lower profile of 30mm instead of 35mm. Going wider by 10mm (5mm inner and 5mm outer) is compensated how much by a 5mm lower profile?

Jamie

 

[outrbnks]

Is there a chart showing width differences of different tire sizes on different rim sizes?

Jamie

Go to the link below, where you can play with the different wheel and tire dimensions and get a good visual and a lot of measurement data your looking for to compare. Remember the overall tire diameter should be near 25.7" for speedo and Odo accuracy... or you can yellow box it to tune it in if needed, (a gsxr reference for the yellow box). The link below really helps to see the changes your thinking about... good luck

Custom rims, wheel tire packages

Custom rims, wheel tire packages. Browse hundreds custom aftermarket rim-tire packages for your car, truck or SUV. Online fitment guides - See what fits.

www.rimsntires.com

 

[linjam]

Go to the link below, where you can play with the different wheel and tire dimensions and get a good visual and a lot of measurement data your looking for to compare. Remember the overall tire diameter should be near 25.7" for speedo and Odo accuracy... or you can yellow box it to tune it in if needed, (a gsxr reference for the yellow box). The link below really helps to see the changes your thinking about... good luck

Custom rims, wheel tire packages

Custom rims, wheel tire packages. Browse hundreds custom aftermarket rim-tire packages for your car, truck or SUV. Online fitment guides - See what fits.

www.rimsntires.com

Thanks, outrbnks. I will check it out. See my comment just before your last post to see why I am a bit extra confused based on what Dave said about the supposed plug and play nature of the new wheels. Perhaps I am missing something in my prior stated calculations.

J

 

[gsxr]

Is there a chart showing width differences of different tire sizes on different rim sizes?

A chart showing the same tire on different wheel widths... I've never seen one.

Also, you said these new wheels should fit naturally without rubbing. I’m already getting slight outside rubbing in the rear from big dips in the road, so how can these new wheels work as you say if I’m going 5mm eider with the same 275 tires? I’m using the Continental DWS 06 tires, which are more rounded and thus are supposed to rub less readily!

Current setup is 9.0 ET20 (<-- ET number adjusted to include spacer)
New setup is 9.5 ET28 (no spacer)

The wider wheel with same offset would push inside AND outside ~6mm further (that's ~12mm total, the 0.5" width increase). But the 8mm offset change would pull the wheel in 8mm, for a net result of ~2mm inward... again, without spacers, and using the same tire. Wider tires would push it out more than you have now, as would spacers.

That said, it's a little strange you have rubbing with this setup in the rear, it's not a particularly aggressive fitment of either wheel or tire.

More concerning is the rear wheels measure 14 inches from the center of the center cap to the fender lip, half an inch less than your recommended 13.5 inches, IIRC.

The ride heights are primarily a way to compare one car to another, and to compare front to rear when tweaking springs and/or spring pads. Most bone-stock 500E's are in the 14.5" ballpark in the rear with a full tank of fuel, possibly increasing to 14.75" with an empty tank. For appearances only, I like to get the rear closer to 14.0", which generally requires different springs and adjusting SLS. However, I'm not a fan of going much below 14.0 in the rear, particularly with wide wheels. The front tends to sit lower and ~13.75" is common in stock trim. Bottom line... if you are at 14.0 I'd leave it alone!

@Jlaa, have you ever measured your ride height, from wheel center to fender lip? And do you have stock springs all around?

 

[TerryA]

Jamie,

When I replaced my Michelin take off tires that were 255s & 285s on 2005 500SL Launch Edition rims. I dropped down to 245/140-18 & 275/35-18 Pilot Super Sports.

I had no rubs w/ the 255 - 285 combo what made a difference to me was the weight. Especially on the 275 vs 285 rears. If I remember it was 3# or 4# a side. Secondly I would ask anybody to stand in front or behind your car and tell me they can see the difference in width of the small vs larger size. It’s less than 1/2” almost visually impossible w/o a tape measure.

The weight savings is definitely going to help the ride quality. You can check out the weight differences yourself by looking up the sizes at the Tire Rack. I’m referring to Michelins Only.

Now my Super Sports are last year’s series but I would definitely go with their latest offerings. Especially w/ that great set of AMG 22 spoke rims.

Just my input/ take it anyway you want.

lol

Edit: I have a correction. I just checked the weight difference on rears 275 vs 285 Michelin Super Sports ONLY 2# difference 26# vs 28#.

I recall when I bought mine the weight did was more but was about 5 or 6 years ago.

 

[Jlaa]

@Jlaa, have you ever measured your ride height, from wheel center to fender lip? And do you have stock springs all around?

Yes, you asked me this before and I measured it and took a pic and posted it on some long-lost thread around here that I can't remember.....

But I just measured it again right now with a full tank of fuel. At the rear, from wheel center to fender lip, is right around 14". I have stock springs (or at least whatever came with the car... I am pretty sure they are stock) and the SLS is adjusted to the lowest point.

 

[linjam]

Current setup is 9.0 ET20 (<-- ET number adjusted to include spacer)
New setup is 9.5 ET28 (no spacer)

The wider wheel with same offset would push inside AND outside ~6mm further (that's ~12mm total, the 0.5" width increase). But the 8mm offset change would pull the wheel in 8mm, for a net result of ~2mm inward... again, without spacers, and using the same tire. Wider tires would push it out more than you have now, as would spacers.

That said, it's a little strange you have rubbing with this setup in the rear, it's not a particularly aggressive fitment of either wheel or tire.

You're right Dave. I made an error. I forgot to divide the 12.7mm (half inch wider wheel) between inner and outer. Stupid error. So, I am in better shape than I thought.

DIAMETER:

On the subject of diameter, I don't understand why I cannot use 245/40 up front with 285/35 in the rear. What about the rest of the tire sizes below? Here are the diameters:

245/40 25.7"
255/35 25.0"
255/40 26.0"
265/35 25.3"
265/40 26.3"

275/35 25.6"
285/35 25.9"

From this, I don't see the problem.

RUBBING:

I agree Dave. My current setup in the rear (275/35 tires on 8.5 x 18 wheels with a ride height of 14 inches and 15mm spacers seems fine. Why is it rubbing on the odd occasion with extreme dips in the road. I am using the Limited springs in the rear, but they are not softer than stock.

Edit: I have a correction. I just checked the weight difference on rears 275 vs 285 Michelin Super Sports ONLY 2# difference 26# vs 28#.

I recall when I bought mine the weight did was more but was about 5 or 6 years ago.

Interesting comments about weight, outrbnks. I had never thought of that. Not sure it matters much, as they are all fairly close. The Conti DWS 06 tire sizes I'm looking at are the following weights:

Front:
245/40 23 lbs
255/35 22 lbs
255/40 26 lbs
265/35 24 lbs
265/40 26 lbs

Rear:
275/35 25 lbs
285/35 28 lbs

The ride heights are primarily a way to compare one car to another, and to compare front to rear when tweaking springs and/or spring pads. Most bone-stock 500E's are in the 14.5" ballpark in the rear with a full tank of fuel, possibly increasing to 14.75" with an empty tank. For appearances only, I like to get the rear closer to 14.0", which generally requires different springs and adjusting SLS. However, I'm not a fan of going much below 14.0 in the rear, particularly with wide wheels. The front tends to sit lower and ~13.75" is common in stock trim. Bottom line... if you are at 14.0 I'd leave it alone!

I agree, Dave. Apologies for misremembering your recommended ride heights. I will leave the ride height alone, except that overall tire diameter changes will affect ride height, yes?

But I just measured it again right now with a full tank of fuel. At the rear, from wheel center to fender lip, is right around 14". I have stock springs (or at least whatever came with the car... I am pretty sure they are stock) and the SLS is adjusted to the lowest point.

Thanks, Jlaa. I am not sure what number bump pads I am using in the rear or where exactly the SLS is set.

Jamie

 

[Jlaa]

On the subject of diameter, I don't understand why I cannot use 245/40 up front with 285/35 in the rear. What about the rest of the tire sizes below? Here are the diameters:

Too much difference in circumference causes cruise control and possibly ASR / etc to freak out. Start here: (from klink) OWNER - makemann | Owners and Their Cars

 

[gsxr]

On the subject of diameter, I don't understand why I cannot use 245/40 up front with 285/35 in the rear. What about the rest of the tire sizes below?

Jlaa is correct, the ABS and ASR are unhappy with different diameters / rolling circumference. And cruise control will drop out at higher speeds too. If your desired sizes are within 1-2%, that should be ok. However it's preferred to have the rear slightly larger, not smaller. Note the specs are based on a certain wheel width, if you are not using the same wheel width, actual dimensions when mounted will change. How much? I don't know...

My current setup in the rear (275/35 tires on 8.5 x 18 wheels with a ride height of 14 inches and 15mm spacers seems fine. Why is it rubbing on the odd occasion with extreme dips in the road. I am using the Limited springs in the rear, but they are not softer than stock.

I don't know why it's rubbing, but another question... are the SLS shocks/hydrolegs recent, or old? Same question @Jlaa, btw - new or old SLS?

I agree, Dave. Apologies for misremembering your recommended ride heights. I will leave the ride height alone, except that overall tire diameter changes will affect ride height, yes?

Tire diameter changes the distance from chassis to the pavement... very, very slightly. This is why you measure from wheel center to fender lip - it eliminates tire size as a variable. If you measure from body to pavement, tire size and pressure will change measurements, which is why it's not useful for comparing different cars.

 

[linjam]

Too much difference in circumference causes cruise control and possibly ASR / etc to freak out. Start here: (from klink) OWNER - makemann | Owners and Their Cars

Jlaa is correct, the ABS and ASR are unhappy with different diameters / rolling circumference. And cruise control will drop out at higher speeds too. If your desired sizes are within 1-2%, that should be ok. However it's preferred to have the rear slightly larger, not smaller. Note the specs are based on a certain wheel width, if you are not using the same wheel width, actual dimensions when mounted will change. How much? I don't know...

Thank you, gentlemen. I checked out the thread, Jlaa. Here is what I have come up with in the4 Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 tires.

As a reminder, I currently have:

AMG Monoblock IIs
Front 8x18 ET 31
Tires — 245/40ZR-18 CONTINENTAL EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 XL
With 25mm spacers

Rear 9x18 ET 35
Tires — 275/35ZR-18 CONTINENTAL EXTREMECONTACT DWS 06 SL
With 15mm spacers

I will be changing to:

AMG Styling Vs
Front 8.5x ET 25

Rear 9.5x ET 28


Here are the specs on the various size Conti tires:


Continental “ExtremeContact DWS 06” tire sizes/weight/rim width range/diameter/revs per mile

245/40 23lbs/8-9.5”/25.7”/808 revs

245/45 25lbs/7.5-9”/26.7”/778 revs

255/35 22lbs/8.5-10”/25”/831 revs

255/40 26lbs/8.5-10”/26”/799 revs

255/45 26lbs/8-9.5”/27”/769 revs

265/35 24lbs/9-10.5”/25.3”/821 revs

265/40 26lbs/9-10.5”/26.3”/790 revs

275/35 25lbs/9-11”/25.6”/811 revs

275/40 27lbs/9-11”/26.7”/778 revs

285/35 28lbs/9.5-11”/25.9”/802 revs


Based on this, which combos do you think will work to avoid ASR/cruise control issues?

Jamie

 

[outrbnks]

Obviously the tires you have now work, and they are the correct sizes for 18" wheels in these general widths on a E500E.
25.7 is speedo/odo accurate, kind of a no brainer, do you have another goal in mind, are you trying to change something else?
I don't know the exact answer to your question, I've seen it expressed in % somewhere I think, which should translate to a number.
For example, the diameter differences between front and rear should be within ___inches of each other.
Taking a guess, perhaps .3" difference max, but someone with expert knowledge can fine tune that number.
So the tires you have now have a diameter difference of only .1" front to rear, and they are the correct diameter for the car, you can't get closer than that. Is there a reason you don't want these sizes? Are you worried about rubbing? If you want different sizes, what are your goals?
I see you have some aggressive spacers now, are you going to use any spacers with the 22 spoke wheels? If not the tires you have now are perfect.

 

[gsxr]

I'd want the difference to be less than 2%. And if possible have the rear equal or larger than the front.

With the rear tires 4% larger, cruise control would not work above ~35mph. I only made that mistake once, about 15 years ago. YMMV, etc.

 

[TerryA]

Jamie,

Stick with the same sizes you have on the Monoblocks. That is the correct size for 18" wheels on an E500E. Fronts 245/40 23lbs/8-9.5”/25.7”/808 revs are exact diameter and reves as the Mercedes E500E stock tire size on 225/55-16" tires. The rear size of 275/35 25lbs/9-11”/25.6”/811 revs is within 1% of MB's stock size.

To me there is no other size to use on the 18" wheels. You will have to play with the spacer sizes to get whatever look you want. IMOP, the pics of your car's stance with the Monoblocks can't be improved upon. Use whatever spacer sizes you need with the AMG wheels to achieve the same stance.
To me this would be perfect.

You can't get a better tire size. You are spending a lot of money for a new set of tires. It would be very disappointing for you if you pick the wrong size tires. Quit messing around and just Do It!

lol

 

[linjam]

Obviously the tires you have now work, and they are the correct sizes for 18" wheels in these general widths on a E500E.
25.7 is speedo/odo accurate, kind of a no brainer, do you have another goal in mind, are you trying to change something else?
I don't know the exact answer to your question, I've seen it expressed in % somewhere I think, which should translate to a number.
For example, the diameter differences between front and rear should be within ___inches of each other.
Taking a guess, perhaps .3" difference max, but someone with expert knowledge can fine tune that number.
So the tires you have now have a diameter difference of only .1" front to rear, and they are the correct diameter for the car, you can't get closer than that. Is there a reason you don't want these sizes? Are you worried about rubbing? If you want different sizes, what are your goals?
I see you have some aggressive spacers now, are you going to use any spacers with the 22 spoke wheels? If not the tires you have now are perfect.

I'd want the difference to be less than 2%. And if possible have the rear equal or larger than the front.

With the rear tires 4% larger, cruise control would not work above ~35mph. I only made that mistake once, about 15 years ago. YMMV, etc.

I'd want the difference to be less than 2%. And if possible have the rear equal or larger than the front.

With the rear tires 4% larger, cruise control would not work above ~35mph. I only made that mistake once, about 15 years ago. YMMV, etc.

Jamie,

Stick with the same sizes you have on the Monoblocks. That is the correct size for 18" wheels on an E500E. Fronts 245/40 23lbs/8-9.5”/25.7”/808 revs are exact diameter and reves as the Mercedes E500E stock tire size on 225/55-16" tires. The rear size of 275/35 25lbs/9-11”/25.6”/811 revs is within 1% of MB's stock size.

To me there is no other size to use on the 18" wheels. You will have to play with the spacer sizes to get whatever look you want. IMOP, the pics of your car's stance with the Monoblocks can't be improved upon. Use whatever spacer sizes you need with the AMG wheels to achieve the same stance.
To me this would be perfect.

You can't get a better tire size. You are spending a lot of money for a new set of tires. It would be very disappointing for you if you pick the wrong size tires. Quit messing around and just Do It!

lol

I don't remember actually posting the current stance with the monoblocks and spacers, Terry. Did you see it somewhere? Did I forget?

The current stance is great. I'd like to replicate it with the new wheels without spacers, if possible. The lower offsets make that possible, at least in the rear and with possibly a small spacer in the front. I think also that the wider tires will look better on the half inch wider wheels and compliment the stance, etc. That is the only reason I am asking about this.

You guys have said a lot about % difference between front and rearin terms of diameter, but from what I have read, wheel/tire width affects that as well, which is why I included above the revs per minute specs on each tire.

So, with that, I was thinking the 285/35s on the rear 9.5" wheels, and whatever would compliment that on the front 8.5" wheels.

Thoughts?

Jamie

 

[744Brillantsilber]

So, with that, I was thinking the 285/35s on the rear 9.5" wheels, and whatever would compliment that on the front 8.5" wheels.

Jamie: using 245/40 on the front would make only 0.5% difference compared to 285/35 in the back.
255/40 would result in 0.7% difference. Still not much...

 

[outrbnks]

That works for compatibility, 245/40 & 285/35, only .2" diameter difference, I figured you had something else in mind, going wider...

As long as it doesn't rub... Looking forward to seeing these wheels on a E500E.. GL

 

[TerryA]

I don't remember actually posting the current stance with the monoblocks and spacers, Terry. Did you see it somewhere? Did I forget?

The current stance is great. I'd like to replicate it with the new wheels without spacers, if possible. The lower offsets make that possible, at least in the rear and with possibly a small spacer in the front. I think also that the wider tires will look better on the half inch wider wheels and compliment the stance, etc. That is the only reason I am asking about this.

You guys have said a lot about % difference between front and rearin terms of diameter, but from what I have read, wheel/tire width affects that as well, which is why I included above the revs per minute specs on each tire.

So, with that, I was thinking the 285/35s on the rear 9.5" wheels, and whatever would compliment that on the front 8.5" wheels.

Thoughts?

Jamie

Jamie,

Need help identifying these wheels | Wheels and Tires

Can anyone tell me what the wheels are in these two links? They look like my 18 inch AMG monoblocks but appear perhaps larger and deeper? They look great. https://bringatrailer.com/2010/06/26/unafraid-upgraded-1992-mercedes-benz-500e/ http://www.mercedesw124.com/two-amazing-mercedes-w124-500ee500/

www.500eboard.co

Isn't this your car in post #19 and #47 setting on the Monoblocks?

If that's your car it looks great as it sets. If you want the Monoblocks out further use spacers. The AMG 22 spokes may not even need the spacers.

I would suggest that you take the Contis off of the Monoblocks and try them on the AMG wheels before buying any more tires.

I ran a set of Michelin 285/35-18 and 255/40-18s on my car. I had no rubs. The rims were 2004 or 2005 SL500 Launch Editions. I'm not sure of the offsets. The difference in width of the 275 and 245 is less than a 1/2". You won't even notice it and they are less in weight.

The car was designed engineered with just so much un-sprung weight allowed for each corner on the stock 16" rims. The more un-sprung weight that you add to each corner takes away from the ride comfort. I certainly noticed the difference when I stepped down from the 285 & 255 sizes to the 275 & 245 tires.

In my second opinion here, I think the E60's rear wheels are out to far. The tire should never be further out than the fender lip.
To me that looks like the Ricer Cars I see running around SoCal. with there wheels stuck out so far that they have to cant them in to miss the fenders. This look does not enhance the car.

Maybe it just my age and I'm getting cranky from setting at home every day because of this Virus.

lol

 

[linjam]

Jamie: using 245/40 on the front would make only 0.5% difference compared to 285/35 in the back.
255/40 would result in 0.7% difference. Still not much...

That works for compatibility, 245/40 & 285/35, only .2" diameter difference, I figured you had something else in mind, going wider...

As long as it doesn't rub... Looking forward to seeing these wheels on a E500E.. GL

Thanks, guys. At least I have a couple/few options to play with.

I'll post some photos. I'll take some of the current setup and later of the new setup with the 22 spoke wheels when installed.

Jamie,

Need help identifying these wheels | Wheels and Tires

Can anyone tell me what the wheels are in these two links? They look like my 18 inch AMG monoblocks but appear perhaps larger and deeper? They look great. https://bringatrailer.com/2010/06/26/unafraid-upgraded-1992-mercedes-benz-500e/ http://www.mercedesw124.com/two-amazing-mercedes-w124-500ee500/

www.500eboard.co

Isn't this your car in post #19 and #47 setting on the Monoblocks?

If that's your car it looks great as it sets. If you want the Monoblocks out further use spacers. The AMG 22 spokes may not even need the spacers.

I would suggest that you take the Contis off of the Monoblocks and try them on the AMG wheels before buying any more tires.

I ran a set of Michelin 285/35-18 and 255/40-18s on my car. I had no rubs. The rims were 2004 or 2005 SL500 Launch Editions. I'm not sure of the offsets. The difference in width of the 275 and 245 is less than a 1/2". You won't even notice it and they are less in weight.

The car was designed engineered with just so much un-sprung weight allowed for each corner on the stock 16" rims. The more un-sprung weight that you add to each corner takes away from the ride comfort. I certainly noticed the difference when I stepped down from the 285 & 255 sizes to the 275 & 245 tires.

In my second opinion here, I think the E60's rear wheels are out to far. The tire should never be further out than the fender lip.
To me that looks like the Ricer Cars I see running around SoCal. with there wheels stuck out so far that they have to cant them in to miss the fenders. This look does not enhance the car.

Maybe it just my age and I'm getting cranky from setting at home every day because of this Virus.

lol

WHAT virus, I've long begun to wonder?

Yes, Terry. That is my car, but with my old square monoblock setup with no spacers. My car now has the staggered setup of the same wheel with 25mm spacers in front and 15mm spacers in rear. It looks (subjectively) much better now. I agree with you about the E60 in the rear. My car is now in between my old setup and the E60. It looks really good. I just want to approximate the same stance with the new half inch wider wheels -- hence all this talk about which tires to use.

My tech never wanted me to change it and use spacers but now agrees it looks far better. With the new wider wheels with lower offsets, I will not need spacers in the rear and maybe only small ones in the front. My tech thinks the current tires will look too small on the new wheels by sitting too flush with the wheel but agrees with the plan of trying them first.

Meanwhile, I have an annoying vibration in the steering wheel caused, they say, by the relatively new Conti tires I am using now. Left front road force balanced at 19, and right front road force balanced at 25, which my tech says is very bad (see photos below). My tech believes this is causing the vibration and the spacers are exacerbating it. Vibration does not give one a feeling of confidence when driving.

Ugh. I suppose I will have to contact Tire Rack and see whether I need to do a warranty exchange.

 

[maw1124]

Did you settle up on tire sizes? 245 on 8.5” and 275 on 9.5” seem perfectly at home to me. My 500E wears 245x18x8.5” all around, and my S55 has 245x19x8.5” up front and 285x19x9.5” out back (up from 235/275 stock). They all look and feel just fine, even though I briefly considered 255x18x8.5 all around for the 500E, I decided against it for the extra weight, rubbing and appearance issues discussed ad nauseum above. On the S55, the extra rubber and weight seem right at home to keep a light and overpowered car more planted. But of course only an owner can sense that. It was definitely lighter on its feet with the stock fitment, but too much so IMO — car was Z06 Vette ish to me. Wouldn’t hook up the power, dancing all over the place, no bueno.

GL whatever you decide. I’ve run Conti DWS on all mine for years and have never seen one bad out of the box, although of course it can happen. Please keep us posted on that. Also, where were they manufactured? Tire rack will tell you based upon the size, and I’ve been told to avoid them from certain countries. Of course I now forget which ones but I’ve commented on it here before. I’ll see if I can dig it up.

Cheers,

maw

PS. See here, particularly post #34... Michelin tires- what to get? PS2, S3, S4?? | Wheels and Tires

 

[TerryA]

Thanks, guys. At least I have a couple/few options to play with.

I'll post some photos. I'll take some of the current setup and later of the new setup with the 22 spoke wheels when installed.

WHAT virus, I've long begun to wonder?

Yes, Terry. That is my car, but with my old square monoblock setup with no spacers. My car now has the staggered setup of the same wheel with 25mm spacers in front and 15mm spacers in rear. It looks (subjectively) much better now. I agree with you about the E60 in the rear. My car is now in between my old setup and the E60. It looks really good. I just want to approximate the same stance with the new half inch wider wheels -- hence all this talk about which tires to use.

My tech never wanted me to change it and use spacers but now agrees it looks far better. With the new wider wheels with lower offsets, I will not need spacers in the rear and maybe only small ones in the front. My tech thinks the current tires will look too small on the new wheels by sitting too flush with the wheel but agrees with the plan of trying them first.

Meanwhile, I have an annoying vibration in the steering wheel caused, they say, by the relatively new Conti tires I am using now. Left front road force balanced at 19, and right front road force balanced at 25, which my tech says is very bad (see photos below). My tech believes this is causing the vibration and the spacers are exacerbating it. Vibration does not give one a feeling of confidence when driving.

Ugh. I suppose I will have to contact Tire Rack and see whether I need to do a warranty exchange.

View attachment 105166View attachment 105167

I guess I liked the square set up which I have seen personally on Captruff's car. He was selling the set at the time. He said he had a square set of 265/35-18 Pirelli Tires on them. I probably would have bought the set if it had Michelin tires. I'm not a fan of Pirelli Tires.


Anyway I could live with either a square set or the stock set of 210-E55 18" x 8-1/2" & 9-1/2".

As far a your vibration on the Conti tires on the Monoblock wheels. I can't help feeling that the spacers are contributing to the problem. I would avoid using them on the new set up if possible.

Also, If it was my car, I would be looking at a set of Michelin Super Sports. I have never had a bad Michelin tire.

No matter anyhow, since you are switching to the AMG 22 Spoke wheels.

Figure out what size tires you are to use and just"Get it Done"

I will look forward to seeing your new set up. Take lots of pics and show us the results.

As for me, I have no more advice on this issue, I'm Done Also.

lol

 

[linjam]

GL whatever you decide. I’ve run Conti DWS on all mine for years and have never seen one bad out of the box, although of course it can happen. Please keep us posted on that. Also, where were they manufactured? Tire rack will tell you based upon the size, and I’ve been told to avoid them from certain countries. Of course I now forget which ones but I’ve commented on it here before. I’ll see if I can dig it up.

Thanks, maw.

I guess I liked the square set up which I have seen personally on Captruff's car. He was selling the set at the time. He said he had a square set of 265/35-18 Pirelli Tires on them. I probably would have bought the set if it had Michelin tires. I'm not a fan of Pirelli Tires.


Anyway I could live with either a square set or the stock set of 210-E55 18" x 8-1/2" & 9-1/2".

As far a your vibration on the Conti tires on the Monoblock wheels. I can't help feeling that the spacers are contributing to the problem. I would avoid using them on the new set up if possible.

Also, If it was my car, I would be looking at a set of Michelin Super Sports. I have never had a bad Michelin tire.

No matter anyhow, since you are switching to the AMG 22 Spoke wheels.

Figure out what size tires you are to use and just"Get it Done"

I will look forward to seeing your new set up. Take lots of pics and show us the results.

As for me, I have no more advice on this issue, I'm Done Also.

Lol. Ok. Thanks Terry. I certainly will.

Jamie