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Next I want to talk about wheels. A lot of people wonder what kind of wheels to use with all of the newer suspension components. The stock 03/04 wheels tend to stick out too much at the back. 05+ wheels will work depending on the size, but it is difficult to get bigger wheels on the car up front. Right from the start I wanted to use the new style Shelby GT500 wheels, so here is what I did.
I used a 17x9 wheel that would fit a 1999-2004 car for the fronts. They are a very tight fit, but they fit. The clearances are not for the weak hearted but after long thought about suspension excursion and turning radii, I decided they would work. I have to reposition the flex line bracket so they don't rub the tires and I have to cut just a bit off the inside front of the ground effects, but that is not a big deal. I used a 275/40/zr17 tire. A Falken 452. I really could have used a 35/30 series, but no one makes them. I will also be using the fox sway bar for clearance on the wheel.
For the back, I used the 2005+ wheel size. They are an 18x9.5" wheel. I actually had to space them out 1/2" to bring them roughly flush with the wheel lip. I also had to run a longer wheel stud to make up for the spacers. Moroso makes an appropriate stud for that. For tires I again ran Falken 452s but this time the size is 285/35/zr18. I went with a lower profile tire on the back to accomodate the extra rim height and to even the car out in relation to the front wheels.
Pics
Lastly, I set the spoilker on the car (not bolted yet). It is a shade off of where it has to be so I will get another layer of Candy laid on there to bring it up to colour. I think it really pulls the back of the car together and bulks it up a little. The tail light tint was done using a clear coat based spray.
That is about all for now. I have ordered some goodies for the car including a Kenne Bell 2.6H, BAP, and a MDMjr. from http://www.mafterburner.com/ .
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