[TRG]

Hi.. New to this site. The search function didn't come up with the info I'm after... anyway I'm looking to upgrade the stock wheels on my 1985 GT. What are the OEM wheel specs, width/backspacing?

I don't really want to convert to 5lug, but want to go with a cobra R style wheel - either 16 or 17 inch. What is the widest that I can go without rubbing or steering issues? Several wheel manufacturers state that most wheels fit 1987 - 1993, and the pre-87 fox body's will require 87 or later front spindles... is this correct?

I've found a really nice set of 17 x 9 wheels (20mm back spacing), here to hoping they will fit!

Thanks for any help,
Cheers,
TRG

[EagleAutosports]

1985 was the first year of the 10 hole alloy wheel, it was a 15 x 7.
The 9 inch wheel will fit on the front but you'll either have tire rub at full turn or you could get some steering rack limiters. Any tire over 235 in front will usually rub.
The 9 will fit in the rear, you might need to reverse the quad shocks for additional clearance. They're horizontal and reversing them will put the thin area where the tire would contact, giving you about an inch more of clearance. A 275 seems to be the biggest to go on the back.
With the right tire height, you should be able to get 17's on there and Cobra R's are made in the 4 lug style.

[90 stock stang]

Good info Eagle.

[TRG]

Thanks for the info Eagle! Exactly what I was looking for.

I'm planning on going with
Rear: 17x9 w/ 275/40ZR17
Front: 17x8 w/ 245/45ZR17

Thanks again for the info!