Arthur, from my memory of the factory parts book, 48-, 60-, and 72-spoke
wires were all listed as options (perhaps starting in '58 or so). From
that, I assume none would be considered incorrect from an originality
standpoint. I personally find 72-spoke wires to look too "busy" for a
TR3.
I believe many factory and other race cars ran on 48-spoke wheels in the
'50s, though SCCA _may_ have banned their use later.
Phil, I frequently see center-lock alloy wheels advertised for Big
Healeys, and they look very good on them. I think they would also look
good on a TR.
Keith Edwards
Suffolk, VA
http://www.norfolk.infi.net/~kedwards/
4.5 TRs (most with wires, one with ARE real MAGs)
1.5 Big Healey 2-seaters
1 Austin Princess Vanden Plas limo, in need of much TLC
ArthurK101@aol.com wrote:
>
> In a message dated 08-Sep-00 00:39:18 Eastern Daylight Time, pethier@isd.net
> writes:
>
> > I like the idea of being able to put the
> > 48-spoke wires on at a moment's notice for that original look.
>
> Phil, just a note. You realize that only the early TR4's had the 48 spoke,
> 4" wire wheels (same as the TR3)? These wheels are not really adequate for
> the increased weight of the TR4. Somtime in 1962 the 60 spoke, 4 1/2" wheels
> became the standard option.
>
> My references say to be careful with the 48 spoke wheels ("only for show or
> gentle motoring"). If you ever get new ones, I'd recommend going wth the 60
> spoke wheels.
>
> Art Kelly '64 TR4 CT33118L (original owner/factory pickup)
> VTR TR4 vehicle consultant
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