Reawakening an MG: 1958 ZB Magnette: May 2015

Both of my Z Magnettes have bent wheels, wobbly enough to shake the steering when front mounted and visible to drivers behind me when on the rear.

Wheels can be straightened, I haven't done that. In seeking advice others recommend TR 6 or early, pre-87 Saab steel wheels. I located a set of nos Saab steel wheels, they fit on the rear hubs but interfere with the front tie rod even with a 5 mm or so shim. I will see about a thicker spacer, but will need to lengthen the studs.

I also have found a set of TR6 wheels, they look like they will fit the hubs better as the center offset looks good for clearance on the inside. After cleaning and re-paint I will find out.

I have been cleaning the wheels and working out how to mount the hub caps. I saw an online solution of using cap bolts set at an angle; other people have welded retaining studs. I am not a good welder so I decided to go with the cap bolts. Then at the hardware store I saw some knurled nuts, their shape was very close to the stock hub retainers. I bought the 8 32 size, 3/4" length screws and nuts. They are brass so fairly soft (yes, I over tightened one and snapped it). I tapped the 9/64" drilled holes with the #8 32 ncf tap. I put the larger end of the knurled nuts toward the wheel. This closely approximates the size of the stock retaining studs.

I localized the holes for drilling with a cardboard template I made from an original ZB wheel. The spacing seems good, the hubs mount well. They are hard to lift off except with the original 90 degree bend tire iron.