[petehoovie]

Originally Posted by 19Fordy

I changed the wheels on my 40 Ford from 16 to 15 in. 1971 as I wanted to install wider tires and lower the ride height a little. There are no direct advantages if you plan to keep your car "stock" from the factory. Remember, once you start changing things, other things may need changing. It can snowball. Also, the value of your car may decrease in value as it's only original with original parts once and the OEM parts you remove may become rare and costly to replace. Example: 1940 Ford wheels. After I installed the 1950 Mercury and Lincoln 15 in. wheels, I found the 1940 hubcaps would not fit the rims. had to buy early Ford pickup wheels. Bottom line: There is no advantage, in my opinion. I don't know if changing only wheel size affects ease of steering. Also, make sure new wheels with tires on will clear your suspension parts.

First photo shows 15 in Merc wheels (with Port-a-Walls)on front and 15 in. Lincoln wheels on rear. Notice no hubcaps. The rest of the car suspension is stock. Middle photo is completely stock with 40 16 in wheels and tires. Last photo is 15 in. wheels and tires but with a rake due to smaller dia. tires and dropped axle. Look before you leap!