[Healeys] 48 spoke wheels

[Rick Swain]

I had 72 spoke chrome wires on my '59 BN4 when I bought it and didn't like
their looks - too busy. About 5 years ago I decided to replace them. I
considered 60 spokes but wanted to use Dunlops (now actually MWS) and heard
there would be interference problems unless I fabricated spacers (there were
even very faint marks on the front drums where some of the spokes on the 72
spoke wheels had kissed them). I didn't want the hassle of spacers so went
with 48 spoke chrome from MWS. I have been really pleased with them. They were
true and have stayed that way for the close to 10,000 miles I've put on the
car since I installed them. Anyone familiar with the roads in the Nova Scotia,
PEI and New Brunswick (especially the secondary ones I favour) will tell you
they aren't the smoothest in existence but I've had no problems. I have since
gone with disc brakes on the front of the car so could use 60 spoke wheels but
I'm not likely to change. I too like the open look of the 48 spoke wires.
Rick swain


> > Hello,
> >
> >    I am looking for the definitive word on the 48 spoke wire wheels on my
> > '57
> > 100-6.  With the four wheel drum brakes, I have heard that you cannot
> > upgrade
> > to 60 spoke wheels due to the offset (or lack thereof). Is this true and
> > if
> > so, am I resigned to keep the 48 spoke wheels?  I like the open look of
> > less
> > wires, but drive a lot and worry sometimes about strength.  Thanks in
> > advance.