Tyre sizing and Vic RWC

[regularjohn]

So my mk1 is looking like it might be ready for a RWC in the next few months.

It needs new shoes though.

After having a read through the Vic RWC mod guide, it would appear that on a fwd, mcpherson strut car there can be no increase to track width from what was originally fitted at the factory.

I have some 15" alloys that in like to fit something wider than stock, say 185 wide. After having a look on the net, I found that some GTIs came with 185 wide tyres from the factory (possibly elsewhere in the world).

Does anyone know if this makes my tyre choice passable for a Vic RWC? Anyone have any advice on this topic?

Many thanks!

John

[sports racer]

The MK1 came with 175x70x13 tyres. The GTI's had 185x60x13 but in 1983 the Campaign GTI model had 185x60x14.

Does Vic RWC know what normal track width is? Usually the inspector is happy if the car looks neat and clean, doesn't have anything that screams "boy racer" and tyres that fit under the guards without rubbing.

In NSW they are strict when you are registering for the 1st time after being off the road for more than 3 months. For this one they are OK with +1 (going from 13" to 14") but not +2. Normal rego doesn't mind running +2.

I know of one MK1 that has a tyre recommendations sticker from a MK3 stuck inside his doorframe just like modern cars. He was once pulled over for having 15's, pointed to the sticker and the policeman apologised.

If you can prove to rego that some MK1's were factory fitted with 185x60x14 you shouldn't have a problem with 15's.

Cheers

Paul

[Notso Swift]

Technically you can only use sizes that are listed on the ADR plate
The sticker swap is a good idea (but probably will not fool the insurance
Most RWD guys just work on what is sensible, ditto with Vicroads.

[regularjohn]

Thanks Paul for the info!

As far as the rim diameter goes, i think vic roads are fine as long as the overall wheel diameter isn't out by 15mm either way of what came out of the factory.

The sticker idea is funny! Im not out to fool anyone, just want to make a tyre choice that complies to vic roads.

Thanks Notso Swift.

Is the ADR plate the aluminium one on the front left of the engine bay, just under the bonnet?

It looks a lot like a compliance plate. I don't remember reading anything about tyre size on there, but I could be wrong!

[Browneye]

Best advice is to use some stockies for roadworthy and swap them afterwards.

I can lend you some 13s with tyres. They're the same ones I used for roadworthy and should still be decent enough. I've only done ~2500km since then. Pm me if interested

[regularjohn]

Hi browneye,

That sounds great, I'll let you know if I require them. Cheers!

Other option is I have some stock mk3 14" steelies with bald tyres. I could grab some new rubber for those. They look okay on the mk1. A bit cheese cutter!

Although maybe it's best to stick with stock.


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[Notso Swift]

That is one plate but there is a an additional compulsory tyre size sticker that came in about 81 or 83, before your MK1 but most people will not know that, including RWC tester Vicroads or a cop
I would be shocked if you had any issues with standard style wheels and tyres within 10-20mm from the Mk3

[sports racer]

I've run 17's on my MK2 without being pulled up but apart from going too fast through roundabouts I rarely attract the attention of the law.

When I get the MK1 back on the road it will be on 16's (after it's gone through rego of course) and I'll be very surprised if I get pulled over.

I have an advantage though, I'm old enough to be the policeman's dad and don't get hassled.