Hi Singvogel,
Was itr 6mm or 7mm spacers that you fitted to get the tyres on??
Hi John,
Lots of folks seem to be reluctant to fit wider wheels and tyres, thinking that they may foul the suspension, but I'm running 235/55 17 continental 4X4 Contact
without any spacers at all.
I can just get a finger in between the tyre and the strut spring-cup bottom housing.
I do have spacers - 10mm for the front and 7mm for the rear wheels but only so I can fit 9mm chains when I travel to Austria. I keep the spacers in the bag with my chains. On the driver's side rear I needed a self-tapping screw to keep the plastic wheel -arch trim tight to the inner wing to clear the chains.
I have only had to fit the chains on all 4 wheels twice in the last 6 years.
I run 235/55 17 ContiSport 2s in the Summer that stick to the road like glue.
I originally had 225/55 17 Michelin Synchrones that came with the vehicle but wanted more rubber on the road, with less noise. With those I could easily get a finger in behind the tyre and the strut. So I knew I would have no clearance problems with fitting 235s.
I have the latest technical / dimension data that the tyre companies send out free and it's been invaluable to me. Back in my rallying days I quickly discovered that having the ultimate / best tyres I could fit, gave me an edge on the opposition - still applies today, to get the best from my Freelander.
There are plenty web-sites that give all the up-sizing dimensions, and % differences of the various tyre sizes. I can give you links if you need them.
Cheers, Singvogel.
Edit: Still got 2 part worn Synchrones for sale. Somebody please make me an offer as I need the garage space!