I've gone both ways on both MGAs and MGBs. The decision is one based on
looks versus practicality. I prefer wires but sometimes steel wheels (or
alloys) are the better choice - right Skye!!! Cost-wise, Phil is right,
new wheels are not inexpensive. That said, I have yet to buy a new wire
wheel. Many used 60 spoke MGA wheels (eg. from TR4/4A, Ausin-Healey,
etc.) are still straight and tight or can be made so quite
inexpensively. And I would never put a standard 48 spoke wire wheel on a
MGA - the 60 spoke was optionally available from new and is a much
better looking and robust wheel. But YMMV, etc.
Dave Q.
MGAs & MGBs
TR3A
XK150S etc.
> From Phil Bates:
> You'll probably have 100 people tell you this (unless they are all too burnt
>out on it to say anything) - just don't do it. Read the archieves if you have
>time, but the bottom line is that it is expensive, the wheels are weaker, the
>wheel supply is mediochre, and almost no one mounts and balances tires
>properly on a wire wheel. All you get is asthetics, and at quite a price (if
>you want originality, it is actually an entirely different rear axle that has
>to be fitted to the car, but you can adapt a standard axle with the right
>parts). Figure approx.$1500 for a full conversion done as cheaply as possible
>with new parts - you may save a little if you were to buy used, but it isn't
>worth going used. That said, I do have wires on my MGB, and I converted to
>them. I don't think I'd do it again. <
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