Rear tire postion/rubbing on 1971 240z

[dsommer]

I searched, promise I did.

Here is my problem (car related topic only ha-ha).

1971 240z (Scarab) early build date 10-70 the rear tires rub the inside lip of fender. Wheels are the 0 offset Pannasports with Dunlop 225-50-16 tires.

I’ve tried to gently roll the fender lip but it still makes contact. (may need to be more aggressive?)

I know on later model cars Datsun moved the rear end back 35mm. Was this move to the actual mounting points or control arms? Reason I ask is that the rear wheel sits forward in the wheel well which adds to the rubbing issue. If I could swap some later model LCA’s to alleviate the rubbing issue I would do it.

So the question is, are the Series 1 rear control arms different from later model control arms?

Second possible option (?) Would running a lower profile tire help? I.E. 225-45-16?

The entire rear suspension has been rebuilt with poly bushings, new Tokico springs and Illuminas so sag is not the problem. I know the wheels are a bit of an issue as the 0 offset Pannas from MS now have more/less offset eliminating this problem.

Final option put the original BBS mesh (one piece 14x6) wheels back on the car (ugh).

Thanks,

David

[blueovalz]

My understanding is that only the rear end (differential itself) was moved rearward (not the arms). This modification straightened out the geometry of the half-shafts. I've looked, cut, and inspected several control arms and found that differences were in material thickness and support for the inner pivot tube, but basic shape and strut placement are identical.

 

This issue of the wheel placement being forward of an ideal location is not new to many members. There was a string on this issue not long ago showing photographs submitted by many member's showing the wheel forward in the wheel well. I don't know if any real solution or cause was ever found other than adjustable control arms. I think there was some discussion about factory alignment tolerance in drilling the spindle pin holes in the strut boss that would cause excessive toe-in, but I don't think this could account for moving the wheel forward as much as some of the photos indicated.

 

the 45's will give you roughly 1/2" less sidewall, and depending upon the tire, less bulge at the section width, which is where I assume the rubbing located?

[jt1]

I had to be moderately aggressive rolling the lips to use 225/50/15 on 15x7/0 panasports. It was somewhat nervewracking wondering when a big piece of paint was going to pop off the quarter.

 

John