I would say there is no structural difference whatsoever - its a quarter panel, and it's just the lip, there is no strength (or need for strength) in that particular area whatsoever

The recommended method is whatever you or your shop/installer is most comfortable with - they both accomplish the same exact thing

 

I just had a small sliver of the fender cut.

If you cut it down ALL the way, maybe you are going to change the structural rigidity, but not if you just cut enough to stop the rubbing.

 

thanks guys.

 

Don't mean to hijack but I have a question? If you have a 19 X 10.5 wheel and you want to run a 305-315 series tire what is the best offset that will fit without rubbing. If any has this set up please post your offset. Thanks

 

After you have shaved/cut the fender lip, do you clear coat it to prevent rusting?

 

First off, thanks to everyone that's posted answers here. I've done a bunch of searching and read the top 100Q's, but I still have a question. I already KNOW this will sound like a stupid question, but what controls the offset? Is this something that can be modifed or is it purely a factor of the design of the wheel?

I'm looking to get 18"x10.5" (295/35/18) rears and 18"x9.5" (265/35/18) fronts and want the Nismo (LMGT4) rim from Rays in Japan. Their size chart http://www.rayswheels.co.jp/cgi-bin/...?modelName=GT4 lists several offsets for the 9.5, but only one for the 10.5. Does anyone know if this size wheel, with the tire dimensions I want, will work without rolling my fenders? I *think* the fronts will, but the rears have a pretty low offset.

Before anyone asks I am running stock height and have no plans on dropping it. Thanks again for everyone that's posted here already, and to anyone that can help answer these questions for me.

Matt

 

an 18x10.5 +15 can work but with your desired rear tire, you're going to definitely be doing fender mods out back

 

Design of the wheel determines the offset.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheel_sizing
http://www.miata.net/garage/offset.htm


They offer 18x10.5 +15. That offset will stick out a bit too much and you will need to run a stretched tire and some negative camber with fender rolling to make it fit.

How about going with 18x8.5 +25 and 18x9.5 +12

 

glad this thread is active. I have just 2 questions on the overall topic. Last night I installed 285/35/19s on my 19x10.5 +22mm rims...and I'm rubbing (not all the time, but certainly every now and then).

1) Is occassional rubbing alright, aside from the annoying noise? (Meaning, if it continues to rub, will it damage the overall fender and whatnot?)

2) Do I need to be concerned about camber any other modifications to my suspension? (It's strange, but I can hear a low rumble now in the rear)

 

^ You're tires are probably also sticking past the fender, correct?

 

ehhh...maybe just a tad

 

I would get it rolled for sure.

It's rubbing slightly now, and that's ok but imagine when you take a serious dip or have a moment where you lose control of the car. (for whatever reason: rain, other drivers cutting you off...road debris)
When your suspension compresses in high speed manuevers, those tires are going to do more than just rub the fender.

Things that could happen if you ever were forced to drive aggressively:
a.) Your wheel will smack that fender.
b.) Paint might crack
c.) upset the suspension load so car might handle funny.
d.) balding tires are more vulnerable then they should be.

 

Find a buddy with an Eastman Fender Roller... There are also some people on the Zilvia forum who rent them out...

It is soo easy to roll the fenders with the tool...

I rolled and pulled my fenders on my S14 .5" and didnt mess up the paint at all...

 

what all is involved in "rolling" the fenders

 

Roller kit and a heat gun


http://www.elantraxd.com/DIY/roll.php

1 . Install the fender rolling tool over the wheel studs and fasten it with the lug nuts. Then adjust the tool to get it started.

2. Heat the edge of the fender with the heat gun set to 300 degrees F (it can probably take more heat but I followed the sticker removal guidelines to be safe).