Nova wheel backspace

[Bobby Zlatkin]

I use a 8" wheel and a 9" x 29" tire on my '73 stocker, Tried a 4 1/2" back space and tire rubbed the outter wheel lip. With a 5 1/2" bs the tire rubbed the inner wheel well. So, I run the 5 1/2" bs with a 1/2" spacer. Not the the best deal, but good luck finding an affordable, good looking 8" wheel with a 5" bs which would be ideal. ot in the Summit or Jegs catalogue.

[Jim Cimarolli]

I use a Hoosier radial with a 10 inch rim that has 6 inches of backspacing.
My rear end overall width from axle flange to axle flange is 60.5 inches, everything will just make it with that combo. Of course you have to trim the inner lip of the fender and lightly fold the front trailing edge of the lower part of the wheel opening.

[Stkracer23]

Thanks alot guys I appreciate all the information! Now I have to decide between the 8 or 10 inch wheel.

[Grant Eldridge]

On my 1970 Nova, a 5.5" bs 10" rim worked, but as above you'll need to roll the lip of the wheel opening, and also hammer in the closest points on the inner wheelhouse. Unfortunately, I can't tell you the exact width of the rear end from memory, when we built the car we started with a wider 12 bolt and narrowed it to the Nova, changed the perches etc. I do know that it is tight, just makes it with the 9" x 30" radial section widths after all the massaging of the inner with a sledge hammer. Of course, an 8" rim with a 4.5"bs is a bit easier as it reduces the section width, but we felt the 10" was the way to go. Be ideal if you could borrow a set for fitting it up before you buy a set....