Stupid question? How do I buy new rims and tires?

Do you have any idea what wheels (size/kind) you are wanting? If so, aren't you close to Houston?? There are some big stores over there that probably stock them.

 

I am currently in this bind.

I know the width I'd like to go in the rear, but not sure on the rim size, or tire width on the front.

I want to buy them once, and not bite myself in the ass later down the road.

 

Sorry i did not realize bell tire was only in Michigan and Ohio My bad

 

i have one of these at my shop http://wheelworksinc.com/ stop on by and ill help you figure out what wheel you need.
if thats not convenient enough for you, find a shop locally that has one. any shop that sells custom wheels should have this or a similar tool.
also i think ive seen this tool for rent on ebay or craigslist.

 

Just take the wheels that you have, put them on the car and set it on the ground. Take your tape measure and measure the clearances. You can check the back spacing on them before or after puting them on the car. Then just do the math to see what will fit in your situation. That should get you close. You want to leave a little room on the inside and the outside for tire flex during cornering etc. The width of the rim will be determined in part by the size of tire that you plan on using and the way you plan to use or drive the car. I hope this helps.