i know people have posted that this is bad and dangerous.
i just wanted to know the reasons why. i don't really mind a bulging tire, but i don't want to do it if its dangerous.

appreciate any feedback

 

Check the following thread:

http://forums.maxima.org/showthread.php?threadid=38093

 

A bulging tire can become the subject of sidewall stress. With that stress your sidewalls can become damaged, and possible a blowout. Another thing would be conforming to the factory designed circumference. This can mess with the speedometer/odometer and possibly the ABS system, if you have it. This can be argued though. Some say it is no big deal, while others say it is a big deal. Your choice.

 

so is 235-40 the optimum tire for a 18 x 8 rim. will there be any kind of speedo error running this tire.

BTW that was a very informative thread.

thanks

 

If you check the thread, you'll find a tire size calculator that makes child's play out of figuring out what the optimum tire is from the perspective of overall diameter. It also calculates speedo error. The only thing you'll need to know is your stock tire size. In the case of a 2000-2001 Nissan Maxima SE with 17" rims, the stock tire size is 225/50/17.

Just so you don't have to trudge your way through the thread again, check out:

http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html

 

I talked with 2 tire shops and 235 45 17 will not be covered if used on rim that isn't specifically wide enough for the tire.

For instance, almost ALL 235 45 17 requires 17x7.5.
But the Nitto 235 45 17 will fit on 17x7 rims.

Buying a Nitto should be safe because they actually stated that it fits 17x7 rims.

http://www.nittotire.com/tire_nt555_sizes.asp

Hope this helps.

 

You are correct, LoveSick. You didn't specify which Nitto tire you were talking about, but I can tell from the URL you posted that it's the Nitto 555. If you look further, you'll notice that the 245/45R17 is also spec'd for 7" wide rims.