ET42 with spacers, but how about ET32?

[Paul B2010]

I gather that with et42 alloys, spacers can bring the offest back to 38, which, caliper clearance aside, will cancel out extra stress on the wheel bearing. But if an et32 alloy is fitted, am i right in saying that the bearings will be again be under stress, but on the opposite side. And just how detrimental will that be, in terms of pressure on the bearings? My thinking is that a 32 offset alloy would set the wheels out further (width taken into account), without the need for spacers, which always puts a nicer stance on the car, and inturn will save spacer cash! But if the bearings will be dusted in 6 mths because of 'opposite' stress, then its a complete naff idea. Now, as far as i can make out, cupra 180's started out as et35 with 16's, and then became an et38 with the starfish 17's, as mine are (MY03). If mine can take an et35 (i.e. no bearing or hub related changes between the two models during re-vamp) there would only be a 3mm difference on the et32. What am i letting myself in for if i go for et32's? Thanks

 

[Fl@pper]

??? lol lost me a bit there but the bearings will take some serious offset changes before it would start to cause a major issue so i wouldn;t sorry so much there with minor changes, more likely to have hassle's on the body and/or mechanical clearance first

try these out - might help

Wheel Offset Calculator

Wheel Offset + PCD Guide

 

[luke_h]

as long as you use hubcentric spacers you will be fine carnt see how they will cause stress at 15mm and as far as geting 32 so they dont hit the caliper it it isnt just down to the et its the spoke design to.

 

[Paul B2010]

thanks for your comments. I think re the 32 offset, im more concerned about bearing stress than caliper clearance as lc's arent too large a caliper. Spoke clearance the next obstacle ey! I just thought 32 may be less a stress if like the early cupras, they were a 35 offset.

 

[DannyC87]

I've been running et23 all round for well over 30000miles with no issues.

 

[Paul B2010]

thats quite pleasing to the ears! Et23 quite a difference.

 

[DannyC87]

thats quite pleasing to the ears! Et23 quite a difference.

15mm spacers all round with standard LCR wheels It sees harsh environments too.. trackdays, nurburgring, and the back roads/farm tracks of suffolk!

 

[Paul B2010]

Dont think there will be much to worry about with a 32 offset then. Ive just been up to wheelbase in oldham to check some out, but it was late, and ive got this thing about the weight of the alloys too. The guys there werent too helpful in that respect, i imagine because it was closing time, so i'll have to research the net some more for that kind of info. I think its pretty important really. Re Nurburg, ive took my car from previous for a nurburg trip. How good is that!!! Loved it.