front suspension fixes and facts
10-08-11, 12:33 AM
#256
Im not saying you should be driving on ugly rims. You can just buy those rim and get a set of snow tires for them - they will probably prove useful in Canada. And like I was saying, these rims are very reliable, and its a good way to start diagnosing your car. If you get a set of those wheels, and get them balanced, and your car rides smooth on them, then you know 100% that there is nothing wrong with your car. If your car passes this test, then you can start working on a set of proper summer wheels.
What I recommend is getting a set of brand new OEM rims. Not used, not remanufactured, not replica, but brand new OEM rims. You can get 17" or 18" IS/GS take-offs for a reasonable price. Then get a good set of tires, and make sure the tire size is well matched to the rim width. Don't get tires that are too wide or too narrow, get what Lexus recommends for that wheel size - this way they will get seated properly.
Then bring them to the balancing shop, and watch them do RF balance. If any of the tires exceeds 25lb roadforce, have the tire replaced. I recommend ordering tires from tirerack, b/c they will replace tire for you for free, and include free shipping if you call them and tell them the tire does not balance properly. Make sure the tire shop measures roadforce and balance several times - every time they add a weight, let them check roadforce, and recheck balance after every roadforce. Once everything checks out, your car should be smooth as glass.
Also, if the tire exceeds 25lbs roadforce on the first try, and needs to be rim matched and reseated to get under 25lbs, chances are the tire or the rim are defective, and problems will come back as you drive. Thats probably whats happening with your current wheels.
As far as aftermarket rims, I just don't recommend them. I know some of them look really great, but way too many potential issues with them. Just stay with OEM. Sell your aftermarket rims on ebay, you'll probably get more than enough money back to purchase a set of brand new OEMs.
One more thing... I can't stress enough about not buying used 2-3gs rims. They are made out of really soft alloy, I've bent a lot of them on NYC roads. Invest in a brand new set.
And lastly, I just want to tell you that once you cure your vibrations you will fall in love with your car again. Trust me, I've suffered from the damn vibrations myself for a long time, and when I finally cured them it was like getting a brand new car - the difference is day and night. Now my car is completely vibrations free, theres not even a hint of vibrations - it just glides orgasmicly smooth. So start by finding a poor soul that will buy off your stock of no good wheels. Invest in the 1st gen 16" w/ winter tires and drive on them for the winter to see how things work. You'll thank me in the spring
10-10-11, 01:32 PM
#266
10-11-11, 10:44 AM
#269
