997 wheels on 996 C2

[mbufkin]

I would like to replace my 1999 C2 twisty wheels with a set of 997 5 spoke wheels. I am concerned about the front offset. The 996 fronts have an offset of 50 while the 997 is 57. Unless there is such a thing as a negative spacer, this will increase the front track by a total of 14 mm. Is this a cause of concern? Are there other 5 spoke wheels with less offset?

[logray]

The 1999 has a little more room in the back to play with, but I'm not sure about the fronts, sorry.

With the increase of track, I would be concerned about rubbing, especially if you have it lowered... certainly worth getting an answer first.

[jimmy3530]

I too would like to replace my chrome turbo twists 18" wheels with the 5 spoke design (called Carrera II's I believe). I seem to recall that they were available on the 996 though. I know that there are a few 5 spoke designs though and maybe I am talking about a different design.

[Jetskied]

I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure the difference is due to the fact that the rim width are different. The stock 996 fronts were 7.5 widtth which would give you a different offset than the 997 wheels which would be an 8 inch wheel. Would not worry as 7mm is only about a 1/4" difference and I have see plenty of 997 wheels on a 996.

[pcvinsel]

I would like to replace my 1999 C2 twisty wheels with a set of 997 5 spoke wheels. I am concerned about the front offset. The 996 fronts have an offset of 50 while the 997 is 57. Unless there is such a thing as a negative spacer, this will increase the front track by a total of 14 mm. Is this a cause of concern? Are there other 5 spoke wheels with less offset?

I think you've got it backwards. The offset is the measurement from the face of the hub to the centerline of the wheel so a larger offset means the wheel is closer to the center of the car. The +7mm offset difference between 997 & 996 wheels allows you to use a spacer if you want to put a 997 wheel on a 996 and maintain the same placement of the tire. I have a '99 996C2 that I use 18x8-57 & 18x10-58 997 wheels on. I have a 5mm spacer on the fronts to bring them back close to where the 996 wheel is. On the rear, the 997 wheels increase the track by 14mm total which works OK.

Peter

[phillipj]

997 wheels will work on a 996

[Mike D]

I have 997 5 spoke wheels on my car. I used 7mm spacers and longer studson the front. I think they are H&R spacers from tirerack.com

[pcvinsel]

I have 997 5 spoke wheels on my car. I used 7mm spacers and longer studson the front. I think they are H&R spacers from tirerack.com

Ah yes, don't forget the longer studs on the front if you use spacers. Mine might also be 7mm, I think I got them from tirerack.com.

Peter