The car is a 97 Conversion Evo 5 that runs E8 rear suspension. It came with 8/9 MR wheels with 225/45/17 tires.

Recently I picked up a set of Exo X GSR wheels with 255/35/18 tires. I did not change anything when they were bolted on. Its making a weird noise, similar to tire on metal contact. Today I extensively checked the tires and wheels and there is no damage. The wheels clear everything with ample (2 finger or so) spacing between the arms and shock body. As well as clearing the Brembos. People on MLR state the better size to run is 245/35/18, though I cant find a spot where its rubbing anything (including fenders, liners, misc).

Im wondering if changing to larger wheels cause more rotational mass, therefore causing the wheel bearings to squeal? Never had this problem before as other cars Ive owned, if the tire was too wide, I would always find tire damage on the inside. What do you think this might be?

 

There is nothing inherently wrong w/the tire size fitted. I ran the same wheel & tire spec

There is something else going on. The fact that this car is a conversion makes me believe there is fitment issue somewhere around the wheel

EVOX wheels are perfect fit on the 8 &9 !

 

Figured it out. Dust shield rubbing against the rotor. Why? I have no idea. The day before car drove fine. Yesterday put the wheels on, nothing out of the ordinary, and noise. Should mention the rotors in the rear need to replace too though we tested and found it unrelated to the noise issue.