Options2k

Hello All,
I replaced my factory wheels with the 19" http://www.ebay.com/itm/Lexus-IS250-IS350-F-Sport-Full-Face-Forged-Wheel-Set-4-Lexus-San-Diego-/331006668675?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Wheels&hash=item4d1188ef83&vxp=mtr. I really like the look . However, the new tires, Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3 in 245/35/R19 size are too noisy for me. The handling is good....just too noisy. Now, I am thinking of going with a different, hopefully a quieter tire. I came across Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus (Grand Touring All-Season) tires to improve comfort and reduce the road noise. These tires are highly rated on tirerack. However, are not available in 245/35/R19 but are available in both 235/40/R19 and 245/40/R19. Can I go with 245/40/R19 for a slightly taller sidewall in hope of improving the ride and reduce the road noise? Will this tire size fit without rubbing? Will this tire size spoil the look? How much speedometer change will this cause?

I am looking for responses from folks who have converted to 19" wheels with 40 sidewall tires to find out if the tires fit without modification and if the look deteriorated.

Has anyone here specifically used Pirelli Cinturato P7? How is the ride comfort and road noise?

Thanks.

Options2k

The noise has subsided quite a bit. However, I am still not used to the 30 profile tires......feel every minor imperfections on the road, especially the rough ones. Seriously, considering getting the 40 profile tires. Based on what I have read here, a 245/40/R19 will be outside the "spec" and is considered "fat option". Has anyone tried it? Does it clear without rubbing?

Other option is getting a 235/40/R19. This one will be within spec. However, I wonder how will it look? How is the handling? Has anyone here tried this.

Thanks for the help. I have about 2 weeks left to switch if not satisfied.

Juli

I have the exact same wheels. My tires are Michelin Super Sport 245/35ZR19. I love them.

StillLine

The 245/35-19 tire is nearly identical in diameter to the OEM 245/40-18 tire on the SC430. The 245/40-19 will fit with no issues and aesthetically fill the wheel well slightly. The difference in diameter will slightly affect overall gearing and speedometer/odometer readings.

Here is and excellent tool by which to compare tire sizes and see exactly the differences in speedometer readings, diameter, etc.

Tire Size Calculator

Personally, I would be tempted to go with the "fatter" 245/40-19 setup since it will ride a bit better, the gap between the tire and fender will be slightly decreased, and over the long haul, the odometer will register fewer miles than you have actually have traveled. Just my 2 cents.

BTW, great looking wheel!

StillLine

Options2k

Yes, i had seen the pictures of your car. Agree, these wheels are great......light and look good. However, I am just not thrilled about the low profile (245/35) tires. I had 18" wheels with run flats which i changed to regular 245/40, bridgestone serenity plus tires. I loved the smooth ride of these tires except they had a constant issue of vibration/balancing. I was told that the bridgestones are NOT true round and should switch to michelins. I did but at the same time changed the wheels to 19". The 19" require either a 245/35 or a 235/40 to keep the overall diameter nearly the same as OEM wheel/tire. I decided to go with the 245/35 and wonder if i chose wrong The car rides without any vibrations/balancing issue which it had before, however feels like it has the run flats! I think it is because of the low profile but can't tell for sure. Looking for some advice here from folks who have switched to bigger wheels.

Thanks.

Options2k

Thank you. This is what i am wondering too. I can deal with the slight change in diameter but want a smoother ride. I just want to rule out any rubbing issue by going to the "fat" setup. Discount tires has agreed to change the tires once and after that i will be on my own. Hence, looking for a confirmation that the "fat" setup will fit without any issue or needing a modification.

I really appreciate your input.

Cheers.

Juli

I know very little about tires. Wish I could help. Previously I had the run flats so anything was better. Good luck in your search. What color is your SC? Would love to see a picture with the new wheels.

Options2k

Here are some pictures of the new wheels and tires. The car is not lowered....I am instead looking to fill the wheel wells by "fatter tires".

The last two pictures show the maximum clearance that I can "use" if I go with a fatter tire. Currently, I have 245/35/R19 tires and I am considering going with 245/40 instead....which will increase the diameter by an inch or go 0.5" closer. I think it will clear without rubbing, however I would like to know if someone has tried a 245/40/R19 tire in the front without any issues.

Thanks.

StillLine

I don't know if anyone will reply who has done what you propose with those exact wheels. I will tell you what I know.

One member here (Alex818) has a "fat" setup on his SC with stock wheels and aftermarket spacers. Here's a quote of his from another thread: "Wheels are stock however are fitted with 245/45/18 rather than 245/40/18 with 35MM rear spacer and 25MM front spacer. " Here's the thread with photos: https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc-...o-kill-me.html

The bottom line is that you will have no problem with clearance/rubbing if you go from the 35 series up to the 40 aspect ratio. I plan to go up from a 40 to 45 on my stock 18's when I need tires. I want a smoother ride and less tire to fender gap.

If you want the smoother ride and more filled out wheel wells without the fear of rubbing/clearance issues, get the 245/40-19 tires mounted on you rims. Providing the offset of the wheels are close to the +40 of the stock SC wheels, you'll have no problems. Here's the proof:



StillLine

tromly

I'm with you, just knew the run flats had to be retired!

Options2k

Thank you StillLine. I took your advice and switched to 40 series from 35 in the same brand tire, Michelin Pilot Sport A/S 3. I didn't even know that 40 series was available in the same brand/model till Discount found them for me. Definitely, the look is better and I don't feel the bumps as often . Will drive a few more days to see if there are any issues.....but so far I am very happy.

Will post some pictures soon so you can see the difference.

Thanks once again.

Cheers.

StillLine

My pleasure, glad I could help. Keep us informed as to how you like the 40's, and keep me in mind if you ever want to sell those good lookin' wheels.

StillLine