The Bird
Phase 2
Phase 3
The Build Up
View My Guestbook
Sign My Guestbook
The 89-97 Thunderbirds use a unique suspension and bolt pattern. The back space, or off set is closer to that of a front wheel drive car, and the bolt pattern is 4 1/4 x 5, instead of the normal 4 1/2 x 5. This causes problems when you need to install wide wheels, especial for drag racing.
I decided I would use 275/50/15 MT Drag Radials, which work very well with 8 inch wide wheels. Nobody makes a 4 1/4 x 5 bolt pattern wheel the correct back space for the tires to tuck fully inside the fenders. I had these made by Stockton Wheels. They used centers from Tbird spares, fitted with light weight 8 inch wide wheel rings. I figured that 6 inch back space should work perfect. These shots were taken with them installed. I will do some close checking to see if 6 1/4 BS will work, then get a custom set made this Winter. These wheels will do just fine for now, since they are lighter than my 17x9 Cobra Rs.