Need help with wheel size for a '66 C10

[1964c20]

I'm sure this question has been asked on here many, many times before, but I'm still confused so I'm gonna open up the conversation one more time. I have a 1966 C10 that has 2.5 inch drop spindles on the front and 4 inch drop springs on the back. I'm looking at wheels for it and I'm not sure what will fit. I want the wheel wells filled up as much as possible without ANY rubbing. I picked out wheels that I like and they come in a 17x8 size. I have no idea if these will work on there or not. Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and sorry for beating a dead horse!

[1964c20]

They make 2 different configurations of the wheel. A 0 offset with 4.5" backspacing and a 19 offset with a 5.25 backspacing. Would either of these fit or am I way off?

[geezer#99]

Who really knows! Lots of variables.
Wheels/tires are a big expense. You want to get it right and save some bucks.
You can make measuring tools cheaply (20 bucks) but this handy tool could save you a bunch. Likely the best 80 bucks you can spend.

https://www.speedwaymotors.com/Percy...rite,6761.html

[1964c20]

That looks like a nice tool but it doesn't look like it will work on my truck because I'm sticking with 6 lugs. It says it is for 4 and 5 lug.

[geezer#99]

Oops!
Never thought of that.
I have made a homemade tool like in this link.

https://stevestillwell.com/written-t...ystery-solved/

[The Rocknrod]

You should take measurements on your truck for tire and wheel clearance. You can share your situation with wheel dealers/manufacturers so they can better help you. If you have drum brakes you can still use this, just annotate that.

[SCOTI]

If you have existing wheels, you already have a "measuring tool".

You take all the measurements you can off of the current set-up.
Compare what you know of the current set-up to the options for any wheels listed.

Current wheels 15x6"? It's just math figuring out what a 17x8 w/different back space options would yield.

[bigmoe]

Good tips! This is a great thread that I'm saving. I'm in the same position with my 65 GMC Fleetside. I have 2 1/2" drop spindles (but I've gone 5 bolt). I also have a square body rear end which is 3/4" wider each side. I have roller wheels/tires on the truck now. 15 x 7. With 2 1/2" drop spindles 15" is not an option because they barely clear, in fact I had to remove an inside wheel weight that was hitting. I'm planning on 17" as well, maybe staggered with 8" and 9.5". Right now I'm waiting until I get the box back on so I can measure clearance in the back.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by bigmoe

Good tips! This is a great thread that I'm saving. I'm in the same position with my 65 GMC Fleetside. I have 2 1/2" drop spindles (but I've gone 5 bolt). I also have a square body rear end which is 3/4" wider each side. I have roller wheels/tires on the truck now. 15 x 7. With 2 1/2" drop spindles 15" is not an option because they barely clear, in fact I had to remove an inside wheel weight that was hitting. I'm planning on 17" as well, maybe staggered with 8" and 9.5". Right now I'm waiting until I get the box back on so I can measure clearance in the back.

15" wheels can & do clear spindles w/up to 3" of drop. The factoring difference is the back-spacing of the wheel. Beyond that, w/some possible minor trimming of the lower a-arm lip (gutter) they do clear. Of course. larger diameter wheels will clear as well but you still might face issues w/interference depending on back-spacing (offset).

[1964c20]

All this information is helpful and I thank everyone for responding, but I'm wondering if there is anybody on here that has a '64-'66 with 2.5 inch drop spindles in the front and are running 17x8 wheels? I'd like to hear if there are any issues with rubbing, especially when turning. If anyone has this setup please let me know how it is working for you. Thanks!