165 Michelin xzx with short axles

[smurf67]

Hi looking for some help. Has anyone had any experience running a 165 on the rear of a beetle fitted with short axles. Basically just wondering if any one had pics to see how they fit in the wing as I don't want a lot of empty wing. The wheels I am fitting are original empi 8 spokes . I still have my long axles though what are people's views? Or would I be better with some 185 for rear.

Cheers Alex

[Zach Gomulka]

Would look better with 185's but the 165's will work just fine.

[neil68]

If you install stock wheels (or similar backspace) with 165's there is lots of room inside the wings.

I removed the stock long axles in my '68 and installed SAW short race axles, and some 6" wheels.  However, when I reinstall the stock wheels (to save the M&H rubber for racing) it really looks goofy.  I'll see if I can find a photograph...found one.  It's not clear but there is about 3 cm between the rubber and the edge of the wing (fender):

[smurf67]

Hi Neal thanks for picture that was what I was afraid it could look like think the only option is to source some wider rears as Zach suggested. Cheers Alex

[marc1951]

That is the exact tire I'm running........................ [ Attachment: You are not allowed to view attachments ]

[speedwell]

That is the exact tire I'm running........................ [ Attachment: You are not allowed to view attachments ]

perfect photo of a perfect ride 

[smurf67]

Fantastic looking car thank you for sharing picture, 

[marc1951]

perfect photo of a perfect ride 
[/quote]

Yeah, it's your picture.....

[hotrodsurplus]

From a handling standpoint the long axles make a far better choice. Widening the rear track minimizes oversteer, a dynamic that swing-axle cars suffer terribly. It's the reason Volkswagen gave the Type III and '67-and-later Type Is long axles.