old Sprite wheels

[WALTER]

I understand the old Sprite wheels with the round holes have a weakness. I'd like to put these on the '62' I'm building. I like the look. Some appear to be 'spot welded' and some have rivets. Does anyone know exactly where the weekness is? And, would proper welding remidy the problem?

Thanks,
Walter

 

[Biff]

Walter,

While the welded rims (later rims) are stronger than the riveted (early rims)ones the difference (for wheels in good condition) is reality small. What really changed was the hole pattern. Put two side by side and look at where the wheel centers are attached to the rims. You will see that the hole pattern was rotated slightly to keep them as far away as possible from the attachment points. The early ones would crack from the hole to the attachment point. The later rims are okay, the early ones for show and sunny day driving.

 

[WALTER]

That works out great. I have 4 welded and 1 riveted that I can use for the spare.

Thanks Biff,
Walter

 

[toplesshorse]

I like the paint on your car have any pics posted?

 

[vagt6]

Nice cars, Biff! Thanks for posting the website.