Rear tire removal 55 210 series

[topdog]

to remove my fat rear tires on crager rims and a spacer, i must jack up the vehicle, disconnect the shocks, remove the spring U bolts and lowering blocks.
Tire clearance is about 1/2 inch with a rolled lip. So far this is the only way I can remove the wheels.

I was thinking that it might be easier to disconnect the rear shackles. Has anyone tried this?

[mickeywestsr]

I guess I'm just too lazy....too much problem.

[557B210]

TD....Have you tried pushing in at the top, as you pull the tire down? Also, I've found that letting the air out will help a lot.

[Surestart Engine Service]

Hi Topdog, yeah , fat tires in a stock 55 fenderwell with a stock width rearend is a real pain!
It would probably be a little easier to drop the spring at the rear shackle as you suggest, but still not a fun job.

My suggestion to you would be to get a slightly narrower rear end,(not yours, the cars). Sometimes all it takes is a1/2 to 3/4 on each side to make a world of difference.
I know from my own experience that the s 10 ZR 4wheel disc rear end fits great and gives an extra 1/2 or so on each side. Same with the Furd Exploder 8.8 rear.
Might be a good opportunity to upgrade your brakes? If you dont want discs in the rear there are any number of stock width chevy 10 and 12 bolt rears to use. You want a rear width of 58 to 59 inches ,mounting face to face.

If more room is needed you may have to move your springs inline with the frame with a "pocket" kit. This may sound like a lot of work but in the end , not having to dismantle your car every time you want to remove a rear tire will be worth it.
my 2 cents worth.....Good luck . John

[angs1957]

I had a hard time with a stock tyre let alone a wider one cause I was jacking it up from the diff.

I changed tack & jacked up the frame rail on the side I wanted to change, piece of cake

[57buddy]

if only need a little clearence take a little hyd jack make a bracket to hold it on axle and frame jack them apart

[topdog]

Running a 10 bolt rear axle with 9 inch rear brakes. Tried deflating the tires and tipping the wheel and tire. I only need a little bit more clearance. I am thinking the hydraulic jack might be enough to get the tire out.