Best way to figure out rear end and wheel sizing

[CamaroJesse]

I'm ready to buy a rear end and and wheels. I've been searching around for an affordable wheel and rear end but have realized I won't be happy with the cheaper stuff so I'm getting a moser 9 inch and ccw or forgeline wheels so I can do it once and do it right. I'm wondering since I don't have either of these yet should I get a narrowed rear end and work the wheels around the rear end or buy the wheels first and measure for a custom length rear end. Just wondering if one of these ways ends of being a better way to go.

thanks
jesse

[Z06vet]

I think its easier to buy the wheels first. Mock them up in the wheel wells with tires for maximum clearance, then measure the distance between the mounting surfaces. Dont forget to account for rotor thickness. That has been easiest for me. Not sure how the shops go about this. Scott

[70vertstang]

I'd say building around the wheels is best for sure. I'm stuck now with trying to find wheels for the build that's done. SUCKS

[Forgeline Wheels]

Jesse, I have a fair amount of information as to what size and backspace work for different length rear ends. Wheels generally take about 4 weeks from the time you order until we are ready to ship. I do not know how long it takes for the custom rear end but I can definitely help you figure this out. Give me a call if you want.

[cwylie]

I agree wheels first. I bought the rear end and then the wheels and wish I would have done it the other way around.

[CampbellshotrodsAZ]

I'll go along with everyone else, buy the wheels first. I go for pretty much as deep a wheel as I can get, buy the tires (as wide as I can get), center them up in the wheelwell and measure. No way to screw that up. Trying to measure wheel backspace off of a rearend, however, there are way too many variables that can screw that up.