luconi_MA

First post here so

Have a 05 TSX AT.

I'm suspecting two of my current stock 17" rims may have some damage to them where it's causing a slow air leak-- I've been wanting to freshen them up anyway since they're the original wheels and getting groaty, so thinking some new wheels may be in my future cards.

My car is completely stock and I simply DD it. I'm considering going down to a 16" rim with 205/60's. Reasoning here is I'd like a little extra sidewall for slightly more protection from the crappy roads in New England, and it's cheaper than a 17" wheel/tire combo.

Curious to know how 16's are working out with people as far as with driveablity and any significant difference in handling from 17"s. The wheel that I am looking at have a 7" width and a 45mm offset. I've read that the 45mm offset is the minimum I should go--- Really just looking for the closest stock -1 for both height, width and offset.

I do drive alot, so just making sure that this is a sound solution.

BROlando

Minimum fittable offset depends on wheel width. You can't describe wheel fitment in horizontal terms (relation to inboard/outboard) without putting offset and width together.

Your stock wheels are 7" wide and a 50 or 55 offset. 8" wide wheels with a 45 offset fit fine. I'm sure 8" wheels with a 35 offset would also fit fine.

That being said...7" wheels with a 45 offset will more than clear just fine. As long as the spoke design isn't outrageously weird...it will clear the caliper just fine also.

7" +45 will be 10mm further outboard than your stock 7" +55. 10mm is about 3/8" (.375").

16's will look more hideous for sure. But hideousness is an opinion based term.

I'm also sure it will absorb more impact than a 17" wheel.

A set of good used TSX 17" wheels sell for like $350-450 with tires (if prices are similar to around here). You can re sell your beat up ones for a bit less. Net expense would be like $100-150 + new tires if you want them. Something to consider.

TSX's (Accords) are some of the toughest cars on the planet. A relative of mine has one that he uses for work. 200k+ miles. Driven to/from the city of Chicago every day. Potholes, curbs, and all form of destruction. Original ball joints and tie rods. Original wheels that are all relatively straight.

I've driven my lowered TSX to/from Toronto, Detroit, NYC, and...ofcourse...sweet home Chicago all the time.

215/50/17 isn't exactly low profile.

You'll be fine with the stock wheels.

BROlando

Also...your slow leaks are likely caused by oxidization on the inside of the wheel.

To prevent this, a tire shop can clean the tire/wheel mating surface, and use a rubberized bead sealer compound. It is common practice in environments where salt is used on the road.

Nitrogen tire inflation can reduce this since it will have been dried out and because nitrogen is more inert than oxygen (OXidization).

luconi_MA

Thanks Roland.

You know the more I did research on 16's the more I don't think I'll head in that direction.

Ive noticed stock replacement sets on ebay for $500 shipped . I've been wanting the 2006-2008 wheel design so that may be a better option.

Thanks for the insight.

BROlando

No problem man. Try searching for used OEM Acura wheels. Some of the new ones sold on eBay are replica wheels. They weigh a TON lol...and they're usually on semi-accurate replicas.

luconi_MA

Do you know if stock second generation wheels will fit a first generation car? Do folks run that setup with any issue?

iSeeYouTwo

^I've seen it done plenty of times. Especially when folks with the first gen convert to the 2nd gen for a more updated look. You should check our local Craigslist for a used set, I've seen a few sets for sale on there.

I feel your pain about the NE Roads - they did a shitty job this year in repairing what was damaged from the plows. I had 19" VIP Modular wheels with 225/35R19 tires on my car with plans to run them the whole summer - but I just couldn't do it anymore. Sold them and went back to stock.

Here's an example:

http://boston.craigslist.org/nos/pts/5143428911.html

Not the cleanest set (LOL) but you get the idea


OR you could go for an even more updated look and get the 2G TSX Stocks:

http://hartford.craigslist.org/pts/5117055948.html

http://providence.craigslist.org/pts/5117187116.html