How to tell if solid or hollow spoke

[Thunderchief]

I have turbo twist rims on my car, 18×8.5 and 18x10 and wanted to know if there's an easy way to tell if they're solid or hollow spoke. Thanks.

[autobonrun]

Yes there is an easy way. Feel the back of the spoke. If it is smooth, it is hollow spoke. If you feel trenches, it is solid. There are good photos in this link.

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/wheels-tires/118502-hollow-vs-solid-spoke-wheels-help.html

[Thunderchief]

Awesome, thanks!

[autobonrun]

Originally Posted by Thunderchief

Awesome, thanks!

No problem. Found this photo on line as well.

[WP0ZZZ]

An alternative way to do it: look at the wheel part number behind the spokes and check against the Porsche wheel list in
http://www.944racing.de/wheelweights.php

[Arne2]

And here I was going to suggest cutting one open with a hacksaw to check!

[Geronimo '74]

Shout into the valve stem.
If you hear an echo, they’re hollow.

[slow&rusty]

Genuine Hollow Spokes have these part numbers:

[Competizione]

Metal valve stems... Don't even need to bend over.

[chrismorse]

What is the difference??

Do both weigh the same??

Both Cast?? I can't imagine how they would forge a hollow spoke, unless seperately formed and welded??

curious,
chris

[FrenchToast]

Originally Posted by chrismorse

What is the difference??

Do both weigh the same??

Both Cast?? I can't imagine how they would forge a hollow spoke, unless seperately formed and welded??

curious,
chris

Both are cast, the hollow versions are lighter.

Not sure what the allure is, they're cast so aren't particularly strong.

In theory you could probably forge, with limitations, a hollow spoke wheel. It would be tremendously expensive though.