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I never did figure out why the 5 stud x 4-1/2" bolt pattern is called the "Ford" pattern. Many manufacturers used it, but the earliest example of it's use that i can find is on the 1932 model Plymouth PB & Dodge DM models. It has been in continuous use by Chrysler corp on rear drive cars ever since. The only Australian Chrysler cars that DIDN't use it, were the Valiants from the "S" series up to the VG in the late 60's

Ford realised the virtues of this pattern & copied it from 1949, thats 18 years later, yet it's a "Ford" pattern. Amazing!

I found the rims I want with the 4 stud pattern so one problem out of the way...
might wait for the flares then....

my advice would be to wait until you get your flares fitted. Then you can take some reasonable measurements to work out what size and offset will suit.

Once you've done that, it may be worth looking into a Ford front disc conversion and converting the rear to 5/114.3. It would probably be easier to find the wheel size/offset you want in the more common Ford stud pattern.

15" tires on 8" wheel?

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http://www.tirerack.com - search by size, pick BFGoodrich, which has one of the largest range of sizes, then click Specs.

what sort of tyres can I fit on 8" wide tyres?
I was thinking 225 at the front and 235 at the rear with flares

Yes, postive offset is what fwd cars have. Deep dish would be negative offset. But 0 offset would also look "deep dish" if the wheels were wide enough.

so if I want a deep dish look I will need to get a negative offset for the rims
am I right?

This shows how to measure backspace:


http://datsun1200.com/modules/myalbum/photo.php?lid=1116

I need to measure the backspace...

Are you able to measure one of the stock wheels?
Are you measiring wheel backspace, or offset?

Generally, if you go with the stock offset, or a little less, say within about 1/2" you should have no problems.

8" on the rear should be cool, but i think that the same rim in a 6" width on the front would be much better to drive. [steer]
PM me if you don't know how to measure offset & you will need a bare wheel to do it.