I had to calculate this today, so I figured I would help everyone out. Time to break out your trig/algebra books....

pretty much, use a trig formula with a right angle triangle. I created a formula for you to use below after providing background information and data translations....You must use a right angle triangle to apply the theory.



In this pic, visualize your wheel well. The angle is front the center point of your wheel. The angle (theta) will be the degree change in your camber setting. Side CB (adjacent side) will be your wheel + tire height. Side AB will be your clearance (opposite side)

remember: tan(angle theta) = opposite side(AB)/adjacent side(CB)
therefore: to figure out opposite side length (AB) you must have the following algabraic formula:

tan(angle theta) x adjacent side (CB) = opposite side (AB)
tan(theta)xCB = AB

theta = tan(1*) = .0175
CB = Sidewall height (mm) + (Wheel diameter in mm/2) {note 1in = 25.4mm)
AB = clearance (mm)

theta(CB) = AB
Here is what I ran for my car today. Running a 255/35/19 rear
Sidewall height = 255(.35) = 89.25mm
Wheel Diameter = 19"(25.4) = 482.6mm/2 = 241.3mm (radius)
CB = 89.25+241.3 = 330.5mm

.0175(330.55) = 5.78mm change in clearance

 

wut?

 

How about this..if you ever want to know how much a change in camber will add/reduce clearance do this...

.0175(sidewall height in mm + wheel radius in mm)

Happy?

 

what is the 5.78 mm is that how far off your car is out of camber.. I see where u are trying to go, but then u lost me

 

made an edit. the 5.78mm is the overall change in clearance from the fender line when either adding or removing 1* of camber on my tire/wheel set up.

 

great thread and maybe it can be referred to when people ask fitment questions

 

we can sticky it in the FAQs. Double checked and the math is correct.

 

Good stuff Dave