MGB BWA Alloy Wheels

[dkretzer]

Found a nice set (no damage) of vintage BWA 14X6 4 spoke wheels that according to the seller were on a RB MGB. (selling for someone else so no further info available) The back spacing is 4-1/4" which is a 1/4" less than would be ideal for use on a CB MGB. I'm afraid they will be too tight unless I put narrower tires on them or roll the fenders neither of which I want to do. (running 185/70/14 on my Rostyles)

I like the vintage look and they were manufactured in Italy in 1975 so all that appeals to me.

Has anyone had experience with these on an MG? Tire fitment? Photos?

 

[YakkoWarner]

Are the 1/4 inch too far in or too far out? Too far in could just use a wheel spacer, too far out gets harder unless there is enough material to have the backs machined down 1/4 inch.

 

[dkretzer]

I haven't purchased them and they're far enough away so I can't test fit. Typically on CB MGBs 6" rims would need to have close to 4-1/2" backset to fit properly. Not interested in machining these. Not worth the expense.

I was hoping that someone has had personal experience with them. You know, like maybe they'll work with 175 section tires but not 185 etc. If not, I'll pass on the purchase. Not something I need but they are very cool vintage wheels.

 

[AngliaGT]

One of my favorite wheels.

 

[dkretzer]

AngliaGT
Any photos of them on one of your cars?

 

[AngliaGT]

Never had a set on any of our cars,but I remember driving
an Alfa with a set of them.Perfect wheel for that car.

 

[dkretzer]

They are VERY popular with the Alfa set.
Unusual to find with the lug spacing for an MGB. I think though that the offset might work on a RB ride height only. They were listed as being compatible with TR4 and MGB but may not be ideal for either.

 

[BobHaskell]

It's probably obvious to the most causal observer, but what do RB and RC stand for? Rubber bumper (?) and ?

 

[dkretzer]

Don't see where I wrote RC.

CB= Chrome Bumper

 

[AngliaGT]

There's ads in some of my old Road & Tracks for them.
I assume that they sold them in different bolt patterns/offsets.