Let's Talk 67-69 Barracuda 17x8 rims

Keep in mind, that when these cars were designed, the total suspension design revolved around "X" inches of sidewall, with spring rate/shock (engine size/weight) etc.

Reason I bring it up, was that I was looking at 63-65 Lincoln convertibles about 10 years ago. I visited a shop that did nothing but Lincolns and spoke with them. The tendency for the younger collector (we'll call them), was to put 20" plus rims or "doinking" the car.

He had lots come to him asking why they were getting steering wheel wooble, bumpy rides. Basically the rims were getting bent from lousy roads (here in New England). The cars weren't designed to NOT have sidewall as the initial absorber of any bump.

Keep in mind, that these were supple riding cars (in the day). You add a "sport" (stiffer) suspension and the problem could only be more pronounced.

It will definitely handle better with less sidewall "roll", but there is a downside....just sayin'

Just my .02

i dont see what your saying exactly...i need some hard evidence proving that a 17" rim on an A-body will have a downside...i dont see it...for example, take a look at steves (auotxcuda) car. hes done many suspension mods using a lower profile tire without any downsides what so ever....same for my car....ive done quite a few factory suspension upgrades and added 17" low profile wheels....no problems what so ever here...