Im trying to replace the stock wheels on my 1996 Camaro....but I'm having trouble with the wheel size. Some sites tell me they're 16 X 8....some say 16 x 7.5....and i've got a bunch of choices of bolt patterns to choose from. Where can I look to figure out what my wheel sizes are??

 

I believe they are 7.5. are you looking for completely aftermarket, or an OE replica wheel?

 

They are 5x120.

The difference between 16 x7.5 and 16 x 8 is no big deal. The wider the better. When you start getting into 16 x 10, then you need to worry about the clearance.

 

The reason your getting 2 differnt rim sizes is because with the 96 camaro there's 2 base models. The reg coupe and the RS model. The RS model got completly different, a 5 spoke rim like this http://www.lakeshorewheelandtire.com/wheels/5022.JPG The coupe tires were only 215's whereas the RS model were 235's. And there is a difference. VIP installed the wrong size tire on my RS (the 215's) and it rode like **** and handle'd like ****. And when i went over bumps esp railroad tracks or uneven paved surface you could hear the tire scream. As far as buying new rims i'd go with a 17x8 or 8.5. Anything bigger and your talking about really expensive low low profile tires and alot less of a comfortable ride unless u also upgrade your shocks.

 

ok, so...true or false. if i have stock wheels (assuming, 16x7.5), my current tires will not fit on 16x8 wheels

 

What size are your tires?

 

Ok, dont quote me on this, but the salad shooters might be 7.5, I highly doubt it though, Im pretty sure the smallest size on a fourth gen was 16x8, and the lug pattern your looking for is anything with a 5x4.75in or 5x120mm. If you want 17s you will need to get some spacers to get them to fit, SLP sells some, its for the height, not the width. You can go up to 10in without needing lateral spacers, but 11 you will need them. Just do a little poking around the internet, look at some f-body specific stuff there will be plenty of info. Generally though, if you buy new rims, you should get new tires. If it snows where you live absolutely get new tires, and leave your old/factory rims on in the winter.

 

as far as i can tell...i dont know! I cant figure out that information by looking at the tire. like i said, i'm very sure the wheels are stock...which would mean the tires are stock size for a standard 1996 camaro... non-z28

 

You can go as low as a 15" rim also but you will have to do alittle grindin on the caliper. But they will house as big as a 20" Rim it just needs a rubberband

 

haha yeah i'll stay away from rubber bands. i just need something better than these ugly wheels...and if at all possible i'd like to just use the tires i have instead of buying new ones because these still have a deep tread on them