914 Wheels

[Pugs]

Brand new to the site We have a 1971 914 with a set of Riviera's. Auto-x with these wheels I see is not advised. Is there an inexpensive steel wheel or ? that I could have a set of track tires mounted and swapped out when heading to the track and run the Rivieras on the street.
Thank you for your consideration, Steve

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Rivieras can be fine for autoX. It depends on the exact wheels. Check them carefully for any evidence of cracking or other problems. If they're in good shape they should be fine to use.

The main problem with a number of Rivs is that many of them can only fit relatively narrow tires on a 914 because of the offset. Many were made for Bugs, and place the wheel so far out in the fender that a 914 can't fit anything wider than 165s under stock rear fenders. Others have a more 914-friendly offset that allows 195s to fit, while a few will allow 205s like the stock alloys do.

...If your local rules say otherwise, of course, you should follow them.

Steel wheels can be found used on many 914 BBSes. Check our 914 Parts For Sale section, and the similar one over on the 914world BBS.

--DD

[Pugs]

Dave: Thanks so much for the quick response. Would it be to much trouble to pass on some rim specs. I know 15 inch but not to sure on the best width or the best offset. Thanks again, Pugs

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

All of the stock 914-4 alloy wheels were 5.5x15s. I don't remember the offset. I think the stockers were about 4.5" backspacing?

There were some steel wheels that were 4.5x15, but they are pretty uncommon. The 5.5x15 optional steel wheels were far more common, and after the first couple of years or so they were the only size of steel wheel offered.

Some 914-6es came with the 5.5x14 Fuchs "windmill" alloys (in five-lug, naturally).

--DD

[larrym]

main problem with Rivieras is the wrong offset for 914

I have a set of 4 oem steelies - cheap, no ship -

you have to tell us where you are located

.

[lateapex911]

Hey guys. I'm usually in the 911 section, but a friend just dipped his feet into the 914 world, and is asking me questions...and i know nothing! LOL. He asked about 4 lug Fuchs. I'm guessing thats not available, but what are his options? I'm going to link this and send him here...

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

The four-lug Fuchs "windmill" wheels are forged aluminum, and the lightest of the stock four-cylinder 914 wheels. They are slightly reminiscent of the five-bolt Fuchs wheels, but only slightly. My car is wearing them in the pics in my sig.

You might be able to find some NOS ones if you look really hard, but I shudder to think of what the price would be. Used is a definite option, though; these wheels are pretty strong and usually hold up well over the years.

--DD