Wilsons Sandbox

Hello everyone, Does anyone know if the factory supplied 16" wire wheels? If so, how can you tell them from other 16" wires?? When I got my car I got a total of 14 wire wheels, 5-19", 6-16" with two distinct rows of spokes both extend almost straight out from the center hub, and 4 -16" where the spokes interlace or cross as they extend out from the hub. I am thinking that the group of 6 without lacing might be factory original, if such a thing exists. Any help is always appreciated. Bob TC EXU 7388 San Francisco

Bob, I'm no expert on this subject. Everything I know is 2nd hand information. With those disclaimers, here goes: From what I understand, 16 inch wheels were about the only factory option actually available for the TC. All the TCs with 16s I have seen have the crosslaced spokes. In fact, the only vintage wire wheels I have ever seen with radially laced spokes were on Buggatis. Of course, that has nothing to do with those things on pimp mobiles. BTW, I have 2 16 inch crosslaced wheels that came with my TC. Also would like to know what size tires to use on them. Waiting to hear from the real experts. Regards, Charles Hill

Hi Charles and other T-Typers! As described in Clausagers Book "Original MG T-Series", there are only two optional extras available after the war: Luggage carrier and `Radiomobile -radio. Generally you had to bought it as it came! Later you could bought 16in wheels and a higher drive ratio (8/39) as used on the TA. In a Road Test from "The Motor" in 1947 they remarked the absence of a full-lenght tonneau cover! A sign for shortage of material after the war. The size of the tires is 6.50x16. lozi (TC 3762)