For those of you interested in after-market wheel/tire combinations, I had a very easy change to a set of red SportMax 002 wheels with Falken Ziex tires today. (and the cool thing is that the wheels are a close match to the CR paint.)

The usual 2x4 with two jack stands worked beautifully. I'll get a few photos up tomorrow. There is a noticeable difference (at least to me) in handling, as the wheels are about 16lbs each (vs. the 20+ of the standard wheels).

 

Can you elaborate on how you jacked? I've read a couple variations. Do you mena a 2 x 4 under the sill, then placed jack stands on the normal jacking points once it was up?

I'm about to do a exhaust and install a TSW X brace so I'm going to want to get all 4 corners up...

 

Used a 2x4 under the sill and then placed the jack stands under the two jack points. I didn't lift the entire car, just did one side at a time. Worked like a charm. Getting the car down was a bit more fun. Be careful. It's always safer to have someone with you.

My only complaint was the wind.

 

That's what I guessed you meant. No problem with someone being there. Two different neighbors always walk over within five minutes of me putting up the garage door or moving out into the driveway.

I haven't decided on the best & safest way to lift the whole thing yet. Pull front up on ramps then jack the back maybe... Even stands make me nervous so when I jack the back I may just stick a second set of ramps under the rear wheels. Especially considering how hard I may be wrenching to remove the exhaust.

 

I would use the ramps to stabilize the car. There is a thread somewhere on NAM about a GP owner that uses the jack stands to get the car high enough so he can then place the ramps underneath the wheels to support the weight. (also because the GP aero kit makes it impossible to use the ramps directly).

BTW - here is a photo of Starbuck with the new wheels and one with the original wheels.

 

Yup, that's pretty much how I decided to go.

The wheels look great! I like the red wheels with the car color. Hmmm.

 

Nice combination indeed.

 

Just curious if you bought them locally or on the internet? I am looking at replacing my wheels/tires and it would be nice if there was a good local shop to go to.

Thanks Brian

PS Those look great on your Mini

 

Yeah! Wheels of color! Right On, Right On! Power to the people!!

Great looking wheels!

 

Brian,
These were ordered from Edge Racing in Miami. Sportmax doesn't make the red ones larger than 16".

Feedback;
that's too funny. AFAIK - I haven't seen anyone else in the DC Metro area with any colored wheels besides the usual black (flat or glossy), white, silver.... I like being different...

Muchas Gracias....