Speedster Suspension setup

Ok I'll bite.  IM for some owners has redrawn the body and moved the arch of the front wheel but those cars are few.  Other than that I think there might be a way to shim the front beam, and a beam adjuster but others will have to advise you on how.  

On my original AC IM the rear wheels were made to push more rim inwards something that the wide 5 could be modified I would think by a good wheel modifier.

The rear trailing arms have adjusters to raise or lower the rear suspension height.

As to wheel fitment get as much rear wheel you can get and make sure the offsets are correct.

As to brakes, GET DISKS ALL AROUND.  the front will lock up in a jiffy and your left with the drums which are not stellar.  

Welcome to the madness.

Early IMs (the first ~606 producted in Calif) were VW pan based identical to CMC/FF.  IM molds/specs were sold to CMC in 80's.  The later IM cars were tube based so not VW pan. Swing axel gives more rear clearance for sure which is why old VS converted IRS pans to swing axel.

I had vigorous discussions with Carl Berry over the front wheel spacing of his VS.  He claimed the wheel wasn't centered.  I contented the opening was not symmetrical and the original car looked same as his and other cars.  Some is the way the photo is taken.  Lowering with beam adjuster and caster shims will move the wheel forward a bit.  Lowered spindle will have no effect.  You could shim the front H beam out may 1/2" at top and 3/4" at bottom which would move wheel a bit.

In back with IRS you have safe choice of narrower 4.5" wheels and even 155 tires. Or narrowed trailing arms, convert to swing axels, or slice rear fenders and widen the opening.  Wheels can have the centers moved - I wouldn't do with new 190 alloys.  I've seen it done on steel wheels.

Stance (height) can be set front and rear.  Spacers (with longer bolts/studs) can be used to move tires out in the wheel wells.  I've seen 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 and even wider spacers available.

Thanks for the responses. It sounds like front spindles with the adjustable beam, may be the ticket up front, for keeping the wheel more centered in the opening. I may just stick with the 4.5 wheel option. It sounds like it may be the path of least resistance with the IRS.

The wedges in the back are done at times.  It is pretty cool IMO.

I have a VMC Pre-A coupe that's IRS.  With narrowed trailing arms 5.5 Vintage 190's with 185/65 15" tires will fit. The coupe has slightly less clearance than the speedster, you might be able to fit 195/60's on it.  Don't be bashful calling Greg or emailing him and asking which way to go.