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MG MGF Technical - Wheel offset

Hi

I fancy some bigger wheels to replace the 15"s on my TF135 and I quite like the look of these from Moss:

http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/MossUK/ProductList.aspx?SubSubCategoryID=MGF_UMGF197

(Although I think I'd possibly prefer 16" over 17")

According to the manufacturer's website the offset is 18mm but according to http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/wheel_options_for_the_mgf.htm the specified offset is 30 - 35mm.

My question: Am I likely to experience problems if I go for these wheels?

My email to the wheel manufacturers remains unanswered and my local Moss branch doesn't know.

Thanks in advance...
Mark Hodgson

Where does the Moss site provide the offset information Mark?

Moss have a lot of experience with the MGF, so the wheels they fit ought to fit - the question of the offset I suspect may be a typo on their part.

Another couple of sources of alloys include Mike Satur and the MGFC. I think that the MGFC may offer some styles that are quite similar to the one pictured there on the Moss site.
Rob Bell

Doesn't Duncan have these wheels on his F?

SF
Scarlet Fever

> "Where does the Moss site provide the offset information Mark?"

The offset info for the wheels is from manufacturers site (http://www.rimstock.co.uk - click on fitment guide), not Moss.

:o)
Mark Hodgson

Sorry Mark - being dense - you did say on the mfr's site! D'oh!

Just been looking at it, but I'm not sure which wheel most accurately mirrors the wheel on Moss' site: Monza?

Hmm - yup, think it must be: found this picture on XPF with those 17" Monza wheels fitted: http://www.xpower-mg.com/forum/attachment.php?s=&postid=114388

If so, it is available in a range of offsets - and one ought to be suitable.

Note that the offsets quoted are for standard 15 and 16" wheels, up to 7J in width. If fitting a 17" wheel with a 7.5J you'll just have to compromise on the offset.

I think I worked it out once... yup, found it: for a 17" wheel with a 7.5" width, you need a 16.25mm offset (18mm will be okay). If you are fitting a PCD adapter from Mike Satur (unnecessary for these Monza wheels), then you're looking at requiring a 35mm offset...

Andy, you're right: those wheels do look similar to the ones that Duncan has on his car - but I am not sure that they are the same?
Rob Bell

Just had a peek at the pic on www.xpower-mg.com and those wheels look rather groovy. Would go nice with XPower grey methinks. Smart Car in Beeston, Nottingham do a set of 17s with 205/40 17 tyres for less than £600 (ok, only a quid less, but hey)

I'm still undecided between 16" and 17". I know 17" would lead to a harder ride (oo err missus) but are thare any _detrimental_ effects on handling I should expect if I went for the bigger wheels?
Mark Hodgson

Have a word with Mike S, IIRC I read a post from him saying that using his adaptors, you can fit the 17" multispokes fitted to the ZR and ZS, which are avaiable quite cheaply.
I also recall him saying Trophy wheels have a 26mm offset, so you need wheels with a 40-45mm offset when using his adaptors (the MG 17's are 44mm offset).
Steve White

There is a handicap or two going for larger wheels:
1. wider rubber: because you're probably having to go for a wider wheel with 17" rims, you'll need a wider tyre. This usually translates in more leaden, heavier steering, and worse, more 'tramlining'
2. heavier wheels: the larger the wheel, the heavier it is. This increases unsprung mass, and results in a worse ride.
3. Increased scrub radius. This term essentially defines the point between the point of pivot of the wheels as they turn with the steering, and the point of contact with the steering axis makes with the ground. Basically, it's like a lever: the longer the lever, the more road imperfections are magnified through the steering. This usually manefests as increased kick back through the steering, some steering instability under braking and tramlining.

Now all that sounds really bad - but it is a question of degree. I've not tried a car fitted with 17" wheels, so I am not in a good position to comment. But I find 16" wheels on 7J rims to be fine, but quantifiably worse than 15" rims with 6.5J width.

Perhaps those with experience with 17" rims can comment?

If possible, get a 17" rim with a 7J width - that way you won't suffer any more than anyone with 16" rims in terms of scrub angles.

Not sure how you can get around the problem of weight in the wheels though :o(
Rob Bell

Steve, I am sure that Mike is right and I am wrong - afterall, if he's done this successfully, then that is the proof of the pudding! But I'd be worried that a wheel with a positive offset of 44mm with a 7" rim, even with the PCD adapters fitted (which I think are 18mm thick?) might be quite close to the suspension/ wheel arch liner on full lock?

But I guess, if the Trophy 160 wheels have a 26mm offset, then Mike IS right! :o)

Mark, Steve's right - very few people have as much experience as Mike does in fitting aftermarket wheels to MGFs as he does! I also think that he was first to off 17"s as well? Definately worth having a chat with him and see what he has on offer.
Rob Bell

he also said he's had 8.5" wide rears on before! :oO
Steve White

Not with a standard rear wing he didn't!!!
Rob Bell

oh yes he did!
mike

Hello people,
Yes I do have a set of Monza's on mine. Fitment is ok. I agree with Rob, have a word with Victoria on her range of alloys. ~Good to see you on sat Rob.

Cheers,
Duncan.
DJC Dorrell

>> oh yes he did! <<

[Pantomime mode]

Oh no he didn't!

[/Pantomime mode]

Sorry - couldn't resist it Mike! LOL

Seriously, 8.5J fitted under the standard wing without having to roll the wheel arch lip??? Coor! Learn something new every day! :o)

Duncan - it was an age since I last saw you! The car is looking superb. The James Bond swich console hidden in the centre cubby was brilliant - really raised a smile :o)
Rob Bell

I am your father Luke! The Darkside is strong! lol!
DJC Dorrell

This thread was discussed between 15/06/2004 and 16/06/2004

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