WHEELS/TIRES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Why are wheel & tire packages so popular?
   Three simple reasons: performance, style, and value! Anyone that's tried to take a corner at speed on the factory set-up quickly figured out some attention is needed (hopefully with no damage!). Suspension mods will help as well, but it all begins with what's actually touching the ground! Style is an easy one. Wheels and tires are an exterior styling staple when it comes to defining the look of your ride. Like I've always said... you are what you roll! All this with a few turns of your lug wrench in your driveway... now that's value!!
   
   
2. What is a bolt pattern?
   The bolt pattern is the specific arrangement of the wheel studs on the hub that the rim is attached to. The number includes the total number of wheel studs and the distance between them, at various points, in millimeters. For instance, a 1995 Honda Civic has a 4:100 bolt pattern (4 wheel studs : 100mm spacing). There are several different bolt patterns used by auto manufacturers for different makes and models. You'll find the bolt patterns listed for each wheel in the product details. Not sure about yours, check out the SCO wheel fitment guide for help or give the SCO Tuner Pros a call TOLL FREE at 1-800-622-9541 for one-on-one assistance.
   
   
3. Why is offset so important?
   The offset is the distance between the rims mounting surface on the hub, and the centerline of the rim. It determines where the rim is placed in the wheel well from side to side when bolted to the hub. If the offset is incorrect, the tire can rub on the outer fender or the inside of the fender well when the wheel is turned or the suspension travels. Getting the correct offset is even more important if your ride is lowered since there is even less space available! You'll find the offset listed for each wheel in the product details. Take a look at the SCO wheel fitment guide for your rides offset specs or give the SCO Tuner Pros a call TOLL FREE at 1-800-622-9541 for one-on-one assistance.
   
   
4. Is bigger really better... rim size I mean.
   That's all a matter of opinion ;) But seriously... there are three factors to consider: your expectations, your budget, and your physical limitations. If your goal is to blind everyone else on the road with 4 giant disco balls spinning down the road, then determine your rides size limitations and go bling shoppin. Most car enthusiasts are in the market for a reasonable performance and style fix. For the masses a moderate rim size upgrade and a set of high performance treads will fit the bill just fine. For some expert help fitting some bolt-on joy to your ride give the SCO Tuner Pros a call TOLL FREE at 1-800-622-9541 for one-on-one assistance.
   
   
5. How do I read the tire size numbers?
   It's easier than you think. Here's an example: 225/50/R17. The first number (225) is the width of the tire's tread in millimeters. The second number (50 - also known as the aspect ratio) refers to the height of the tire's sidewall from the rim to the tread as a percentage of the tire's width (fhew). So in this case 50 = 50% of the width 225mm = a 112.5mm tall sidewall. Higher numbers mean a taller (or higher profile) sidewall; lower numbers mean a lower profile sidewall. And lastly (17) is the rim size (in inches) the tire will fit on. Piece of cake!
   
   
6. What does a tires treadwear mean?
   The treadwear number specifies the density of the tires rubber compound. Higher treadwear numbers (300-600) reflect a harder compound tire. The higher the number the longer the tires will last under normal driving conditions. Although they last longer, they tend to lack performance and transfer more road noise. Lower numbers (40 - 280) denote softer tire compounds. The advantages are higher performance, ride quality, and drivability. The trade-off is a shorter tire life. For most, the benefits of the softer treadwear tires far outweigh the cost of replacing them more often.
   
   
7. Performance is important, but what about ride quality?
   As with most performance modifications you have to understand and accept the "give and take". You drive your car every single day and, unless you're made of cash, will have to live with your decision for a while. Installing a larger rim with a low profile tire will increase your steering response and road feel, but it can get excessive the lower you go. The sidewall acts as a "cushion" absorbing some of the bumps in the road along with your suspension. Keep this in mind when making your selection to avoid regretting your decision.
   
   
8. I have decent rims, how about tires only?
   Over the years a good number of auto manufacturers have caught on the popularity of aftermarket or oversized wheels. A set of good looking 17's or 18's from the factory are not uncommon! Slapping a top notch set of treads on the factory rims can make a substantial difference in performance. Often there is even room for a slight bump-up in size for an extra edge. Take a look at your current tire size, your owner's manual, or the inside of the driver's door for your factory size. If you're looking for a slight upgrade in size, give the SCO Tuner Pros a call TOLL FREE at 1-800-622-9541 for one-on-one assistance.
   
   
9. I have my rims & tires, where do I go from here?
   Great question! I'm happy to inform you that you have more options to choose from than you could ask for. The good guys at SCO have taken care of that! My suggestion... take full advantage of your new rollers by heading straight to your rides suspension. A good set of lowering springs or a damper kit with a set of sway bars and strut tower bars will stick and ear-to-ear smile on your face! Check out the SCO Suspension Shop for answers to commonly asked questions, a comprehensive product guide, and some smoking deals you can only get at SCO!
   
   
10. Will I get more tail with some killer rims and tires?
    Have I ever steered you wrong?