1964-65 Chevelle Mini-Tubs and/or Frame Narrowing for Large Tires

[ryeguy2006a]

Hi guys,

I'm curious what size tires can fit with just a mini-tub kit? I'm also curious what it would take to get a 315-335 tire under the 64-65 Chevelle's, specifically a wagon. My next project will be a 64-65 wagon, but I want to get a larger wheel/tire combo under it. I would likely be doing a custom width rear differential, so that isn't a concern. I'd prefer not to narrow the rear frame, but I like to know my options.

Would love to hear some feedback from the 64-65 guys and what they did. I'm assuming not much is out there for wagon's so I'll be out on my own. I love pictures so that would be a plus.

Thanks,
Ryan

[raustinss]

Have you tried abcperformance.net

[Charlie_in_OC]

Ryan

I have a 64 Buick Skylark wagon and looked into this in the past. Mini tubs are going to require narrowing the frame rails as well. The inner wheel well is already inline with the frame from the factory. Plus, on my Buick the interior panel that covers the passenger wheel well also incorporates the spare tire mount.

https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/9748-65-Chevelle-Mini-Tub-how-to

On a plus side, you wont have to deal with trunk hinges and the mini tubs are covered by interior panels.

[ryeguy2006a]

Perfect, thank you for giving such a clear answer. That's very helpful.

[79 Camaro]

Years ago there was article in I believe in Popular Hot Rodding where Stielow? built a 64-65 Malibu. It detailed the whole process. Yes he had to cut the frame and move it in.
Might be available on-line some where.

[CapSS92]

https://www.motortrend.com/how-to/0312phr-1964-chevy-maiibu-custom-body-work/

https://www.motortrend.com/features/0501phr-1964-chevrolet-malibu/

Also found this one on Chevelles.com but for some reason no pics come out.

https://www.chevelles.com/threads/mali2ude-going-together-for-power-tour-08.214495/

Alex

[Hotwire]

I have a more door, frame is different from what I can remember. I'm running 255s with 0 issues, could probably get a 275 w/ trimming the inner fender lip. Anything larger you'll have to stretch the fender or notch the frame/wheel tub. As mentioned above the frame and wheel well are sitting flush with one another.

Aaron Oberle's 65 is the poster child for ABC Performance. He's running 315 all the way around. Completely mind blowing getting a ride in that car, makes mine feel like a yugo.

These are 2002 Camaro SS 10 spokes, 17x9 w/ 1.25" spacers, 255/40/17.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2021/06/50964497096_00ce1f6765_c-1.jpg

One thing I've learned, try to go with a taller tire or stick with 3.42 or smaller gears. Mine are 25" tall, running 3.73s, and the stupid long driveshafts in these a-bodies makes it real easy to find the critical speed of the shaft. I've already looped one, now running a 3.5" aluminum crown vic police interceptor shaft that seems to be holding up ok.