| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| mister bridger |
Posted - 22 Oct 2011 : 14:16:31
Hi all, I'm the happy new owner of a series 111a Rapier, bought unseen off eBay. Really should know better at my age but am really quite pleased with it. Totally new to these cars - normally a Mini fan - so bear with me if I ask some blindingly stupid questions!
First of these is tyres. The steering feels quite heavy and "dead" and I'm guessing the 185/65/15 tyres are too wide. What would be the best choice of tyre size? Thanks in advance
Pete |
| 2 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| janmarine3 |
Posted - 23 Oct 2011 : 20:49:00
Hi Peter.
I am not a suspension or steering expert, but I can tell you my experience with my series 3 and what I think is logical.
First of all the Rapiers are not known for a light steering at low speeds.
My Rapier had 175's on it when I got her and I put 205 x 17 low profiles on and the steering is still acceptable, the only problem is a bit of rubbing on the body at the back and on the suspension in front, even with 10mm spacers installed, so I think 185 tires would be maximum on the Rapiers if you want to keep close to standard.Secondly you have to make sure the balljoints, tie rod ends and steering box is ok, as well as camber and toe-in and out -they all can have a bad effect on the steering.The steering box is quite finicky - with oil, springs and balls and stuff in it and should be checked by someone who knows what's up there.If there is wear there it causes play in the steering setup too.Tyre pressure is also important , too soft and it gets heavy and 'dead' as you put it.
Cheers
Jan. |
| johnc |
Posted - 23 Oct 2011 : 10:07:27
Welcome to the forum Pete,I can't help with tyre sizes etc for your IIIa but I did raise this question for my IV a while back and received very detailed advice,so I am sure there are other members who will respond.
Regards
John |
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