Help please. What is the absolutely, positively, tightest recommended clearance between wheel/tire and front suspension for reliable, daily sedan use? I have figured 255/40-18 tire on an 18x8.5 (+43) wheel will result in approximate:

Front suspension clearance of: 0.455" (11.56mm)
Front fender clearance: 0.943" (23.95mm)
Rear fender clearance: 0.943" (23.95mm)

Is that 0.455" OK, or too tight? Also, in addition to wheel and normal tire section width, is it prudent to add a tiny bit more section width (i.e., fudge factor) on account of additional outward sidewall flex when hitting potholes, etc.?

Thanks.

2004 | 6MTs | Diamond Graphite/Graphite
Upstate NY

 

If it were my car and my dime, I'd take be willing to take it down to those numbers. what would they be for 265/40-18?

"All that's necessary for the forces of evil to win in the world is for enough good men to do nothing.”
Edmund Burke

G35 6mt

 

With the same +43 offset, a 265 adds 0.195" each side for 0.455" minus 0.195" = 0.26" clearance. Too tight for me to order, but a +38 offset essentially leaves the inside edge at the same distance from the suspension (0.454") and moves the outside of the wheel/tire 0.391" further outboard than the 255. Since front fender clearance w/ 255s is about 0.943", that 265 +38 might actually work, assuming the front suspension clearance of 0.455" is sufficient. Either way, I'm still thinking a 255/45-18 on a 8.5 (+43) will go just fine. The calcs are in the will this fit? thread. Gotta make a decision, sale ends soon.

2004 | 6MTs | Diamond Graphite/Graphite
Upstate NY

 

...any other comments before I kill the thread?

2004 | 6MTs | Diamond Graphite/Graphite
Upstate NY