DSP Setup

[reptar]

Hey guys,
Well, I had been thinking I was going to ditch the Cougar for autocrossing next year, but I'm starting to change my mind. My new plan is to bump up to DSP from STS. I'm going to feel better with an Accusump type system and an aftermarket fuel pump. I also think the car may be more competitive without the tire width limitation, but we'll see... anyway, that brings me to my question...
What tire sizes are you Street Prepared guys running? It seems like the widest tire I've seen recommended here is a 225, but I would think I could fit something wider, and that it would be an improvement... but I'd be interested in hearing your opinions.

[sonza68]

I've been running a 225/45/17 but want to go wider next season. I've pretty much convinced myself that a 235/40/17 will work, but would really like to go with a 245 if it will fit without any major clearance problems.

[GuidoThePenguin]

With the tight nature and full lock to lock steering needed to negotiate most auto-x courses, going wider than a 235 is going to make the tire rub. Especially if you lower the car any.

Instead, try sticking with your 225s, but get a camber kit get to dial in some front camber.

[reptar]

Where would it rub? The fenders or springs/struts? (or something else?)

From what I can gather, most of the top guys in DSP are running tire widths 245 and up...

[GuidoThePenguin]

Fender rub. Turned all the way, your tire gets awfuly close to the fender well, and if your under any braking or accel, it can rub.

[reptar]

Do you think this could be solved by flaring the fenders or cutting holes in the liner? I'm not saying that I'm ready to go to that extreme, but I'd still like to know.

[EricF]

My 225s, on stock 16s rubs the liner and on the driver side, liner and a metal piece that
looks like its there to protect against rubbing.