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RS4 17x7.5 ET35 & tire wear

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Old 04-05-2009, 06:33 PM
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Default RS4 17x7.5 ET35 & tire wear

I installed a set of OEM RS4 17x7.5 35mm offset wheels & 225/45-17 Avon M550 A/S tires on my 2001 A4 1.8TQ with factory sport suspension and the inside edges of the rear tires wore very fast. The tires were unusable in about 20K miles. From what I understand this is because of the non-adjustable toe on the rear of my car. I really like the wheels and would like to use them again. What are my optios? Narrower tires...If so, what size? Kmac adjustable bushing? Are they worth it? Anything else that I could do?

~over
Old 04-05-2009, 07:00 PM
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Just curious but when was the last time you had an alignment done?
Old 04-05-2009, 08:47 PM
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You need a 4 wheel alignment.
Old 04-06-2009, 05:11 AM
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I had an alignment done by my normal, reputable mechanic when I installed the tires & wheels. After we noticed some wear, he re-checked the alignment and found the right rear was out a fair amount (I can't remeber if it was toe or camber and think I hit a pothole). He adjusted it, but the wear continued. I wish I would have taken a photo before removing the tires/wheels. The outer edge of the tire wasn't even touching the ground. So you think I should be able to run those wheels and that tire size without wearing out tires in 20K miles? Should I have him adjust the rear aligment for less camber?
Old 04-06-2009, 05:35 AM
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All wheel alignment - you will be ok after that.
Old 04-06-2009, 05:49 AM
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Okay, so I just need less negative camber ? (as the toe isn't adjustable)
Old 04-06-2009, 05:51 AM
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Either he has no idea how to align an all wheel drive car, or your control arms are all shot. Does he use an all wheel alignment machine or does he do this manually?
Old 04-06-2009, 06:11 AM
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He does not have an all wheel alignment machine. He uses some laser alignment rig. I will have to check around here (Portland, ME) for someone who has an all wheel alignment machine.
Old 04-06-2009, 07:42 AM
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Also, am I using the correct size tire for this setup, or should I go to a 215/45-17 or a 205/50-17?
Old 04-06-2009, 08:54 AM
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It has nothing to do with your tire set up. Your car is out of alignment. Go to a Known Audi shop and have them do your alignment!!


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