[Eric asked] > So, Larry.... would you race your "1967 MGB Vintage Racer" on
wire wheels?
I don't, but when I bought the car it had bolt on wheels; I certainly
wouldn't change it to wires.
Eric,
If I were just starting into racing and had a wire wheel car I'd change them
over when I could. If I could do it before I started racing, I would;
otherwise as soon as $$ and time permitted.
Every vintage road race I have attended has a small number of wire wheel
cars. I friend of mine has raced his MGB this whole season on stock wires.
Will he change them? Yes, when he gets the time.
I think before a wire wheel "disintegrates" generally you'll know it. In my
experience you will feel the wobble way before it becomes a hazard. It is
possible, under certain conditions, to unscrew the knock-on. That will be
an experience you won't forget [but that's another story]. This can be
avoided with good splines on both the hub and the wheel.
If you find your splined hubs or wheels are worn I would say it is time to
switch over.
Another "lister" mentioned a cheap conversion is to change over to bolt on
hubs and installing a set of old Datsun Z car alloy wheels. He also
comments that the track will be narrower in the rear [axle widths are
different for bolt on axles vs. splined axles]. This is true if the wheel
off-sets are the same, but what I have found is that the Datsun wheels have
a different off-set. I think when all is said and done the track will
remain just about equal. I would recommend this option.
I bought FIVE Datsun "Turbo" style alloy wheels for $90.00US. Compare that
to about $150.00US for ONE Minilite replica.
Another thing just came to mind. I don't know if the racing you plan to do
is solo or not. Remember if you are solo racing and your wheel comes off
that pretty much is your problem; but if you have other racers on the track
and your wheel comes off that becomes everyone's problem.
So what's my opinion? Change them now, or run on them until you can change
them; but plan on changing them over as soon as you can.
> Persistent bugger, eh?
Yes. Is this one of those questions you keep asking until you get the
answer you want to hear? <grin>
Larry Hoy, Denver, CO USA
1970 MGB Daily Driver ~ 1967 MGB Vintage Racer ~ 1969 MGB Undergoing V8
conversion
http://home.cwix.com/~larryhoy@cwix.com/
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