Max wheel size? (And other questions from a new owner)
 

Hi there,

Forum (and car) newbie here. Just got a silver '95 (2nd gen) 1.8L 5spd LX to replace a '92 LX that was hit and written off (while I was asleep, no less). Since it's my first 'real' purchase and it already has a few upgrades from previous owners (Alpine deck, modest-looking but loud exhaust, heavy tint), I'm hoping to learn all about upgrading/modifying it to look, feel, and sound even sexier. My knowledge currently rests at 'experienced beginner' when it comes to car mods and overall knowledge, though.

My first question is, what's the largest size wheels I can get on this sucker? It currently has new 14 inch winters on the front and balding 14 inch all-seasons on the back, so I've got to replace them all pretty soon. I'm wondering if it'd be worth it to shell out the cash for larger wheels, if it's even possible.

Second, audio's important to me so I've picked up some new speakers. I'm going to post a question about how to remove the door panels over on the audio forum. (Seems more appropriate to get an answer there, especially since more people seem to frequent it.)

Third, can you guys suggest any sort of initial "starter" upgrades? Nothing too expensive -- I'm looking to spend about $250 max in this area overall at the moment.

Help a newbie and his Protege out!

Thanks a ton,

-Brian

First off, you've come to the right place. I'm also trying to hook up my Pro, and I've gained so much knowledge talking to these guys. You're lucky to have the 1.8L, because there is so much more available to you. Some of us are stuck with the 1.5L, and we're really limited. You can check out Mazdaspeed, Corksport, etc.; those 2 right there are a good start.
A good idea would be to go through this forum and look around. There's so much info that can lead you in the right direction. These guys will hook you up with knowledge that is invaluble.
Good luck with your Pro!

Re: Max wheel size? (And other questions from a new owner)
 

well what will said is correct, but you can also run a 215/40/17 if you want .. just a little more tire, .

As for the door panels , well I assume you have automatic windows ,.. so
1> you have to remove the mirror cover that is on the inside of the mirror , . (that black part where the mirror is)

2> look where the thing that you pull to open the door is , there is a screw there ,,, take that out ,, then there is another screw where the opening is , that you would put your hand in to close the door ,,,,,

there is also another screw on the bottom of the door , all the way on the edge , in you car there may be a light there.. take out that screw ...

then while the door is open , look under the mirror , on the door panel you will see a little cap , take a flat head screw driver and pop open the cap and there is a philips screw in there .. take that out ..

3> pull the door panel ,,, should move freally.. know you can take the paneling off, just take your time doing it , cause you will have to take out the pull handle and also navigate the window wires ... so take your time

Bruce

I'm buying a 96 protege LX, should have it this monday, and thought only the 1.5 dohc came in that model? The dealer I'm going through said that it has the 1.8 but acording to everything I've read the LX only comes with the 1.5. Just hoping that maybe mine does have the 1.8, that would be nice.

I would like to just look for a different car but I'm getting this car as a second car and my mom works at the dealership so I'm getting this at a great deal. Just over cost and they payed $4,200 for it.

Can you tell what size eingine it is by looking at it? Or are they basically the same? The dealership is closed right now but I remember what it looked like under the hood.

Well then I guess I'll just wait until tomorrow and find out for sure. When I drove it and got on it, it felt like it had more than just 92 hp but I don't have anything to compare it to. I guess we will see.