Argonaut

I dont think anyone addressed the OP's TPMS question:

Assuming your car is '07 or later - your factory wheels have a sensor inside of each one. Its held in place by a band around the circumference of the wheel (inside the tire).

When you get new rims, regardless of size, they will not automatically come with these sensors. You have to purchase and install them before putting the tires on. If you don't do this you will get a TPMS warning light on the dash everytime you start the car.

Did anyone mention TPMS sucks?

Xeno

I'm not trying to hijack the thread or anything, but how can you tell if you have the TPMS installed on your car? I bought my 05 used, but it does have the premium package (pretty much fully loaded)

danbevsv6rumbler

I stand corrected - i entered the info backward (255/45/18 to 235/50/17) and mistook the shorter tire (255/45/18) as the taller tire... and i realized it's only like .11 inches off.

157dB

True 18" package.
Dont make me laugh.
I went from 16x7s to 17x8s
to 18x8.5s. I kept the same
outer diameter on the tire so the
speedo would read the same.
http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalcold.html

thewarmachine

I figured you had just gotten it backwards by accident.

BTW, hope those girls didn't scratch your car with their huge belt buckles. haha


I believe TPMS is only on 2007+ models.

You don't need to buy new sensors or get them calibrated or anything. You just need to buy the bands that American Muscle sells, and your tire guy will transfer the sensors to your new rims.

illin

Geeez...to the OP...yes, you can use your TPMS. You will, however, need new bands. I think I spent $54 on four bands from a local tire house.

The bands are cheap...you can get them at any tire place (even the dealer). The OEM ones are "crimp" style and cannot even be reused on a same size wheel.

For your new 18's you will need bigger ones anyway...the after market come as adjustable.

fosman77

Where do the steering stops go?

157dB

Under the rubber bellows on the tie rods where they exit the steering rack.
They look like little plastic rings with a section cut out so they can be slipped
over the tie rods without disassembly. They limit the travel of the rack&pinion
steering rack.
I went from 16x7s w/39mm offet to 17x8s w/45mm offset to 18x8.5 w/50mm offset.
I have not noticed any need for the steering stops. Maybe they would rub
at full lock with maximum suspension compression or extention.
I would have used them but no need with 255/45ZR18s all around on 18x8.5" 50mm
offset rims. No rubbing as of yet. Keep your fingers crossed.