951 Forged Aluminum Spare Wheels

Okay, so I have searched all the threads I could possibly find both on Early S and Pelican regarding 951 forged aluminum spare wheels as to their strength and offset, but am not convinced of my answers for either. Therefore, I will ask my questions directly:

1) Are these wheels strong enough for highly spirited driving? Any issues regarding strength that I should be aware of?

2) I know the offset works for my swb car, but will I need spacers since they are 1/2" narrower than my deep 6's? Is the 1/2" narrow width equally offset inside and outside (hope that makes sense)?

I already own a set of these wheels, but my car is in the shop and I can't test fit them for a couple of weeks. Any other advice on these wheels will be appreciated. Thanks in advance for your input.

Hi Scott,:)

While I don't know the answers to your questions, I have a suggestion...

I'd look into the factory drivers manuals to see if there was a speed rating applied to the spare. German engineering being what it is I wouldn't be surprised if its fully rated but, that has always been in the back of my mind when I see hot rods sporting the spares as regular wheels.

Great suggestion Michael. My friend down the street has a 951, I will check his manual. Thanks.

Scott:

These are FORGED aluminum wheels, so they will be strong enough for spirited driving. Many of the 356 guys are using these wheels on outlaw cars. They really provide a very neat vintage look. Talk with Harvey Weidman about them if you have questions.

Gib

Thanks Gib. I knew they were forged and should be very strong, but I am just looking for real-world confirmation. I might just give Harvey a call. Never have had the pleasure of talking with him before. Thanks again.

Not to be combative but, just because they are forged construction doesn't mean they were designed to be a fully functional wheel that could be used to the same limits as the regular wheels.

That would be like saying you can't use a cast wheel because they aren't forged, even though the cast wheel is designed to withstand track speeds and forces.

Also, upon second thought a speed rating, if found in the drivers manual, will reflect both the wheel and the tire as the whole so, even that wouldn't be a definitive answer one way or another.

Sorry for the waffling....I can't help myself. I'm a Libra;)

Michael,

These are the thoughts I have had myself, which is why I posted. We think alike my friend. ;)

Just my two cents. I only drive with Spirit. Ask the local Rgruppers. The 951Spacesavers on my 3.6 67 have the right look, stick very well and I have no complaints. Running 195/65 VR15 Goodyear Eagle GT's with 7/8's spacers at each corner.

Bill