4 replies to this topic

[minimissionary]

I'm in the process of getting some Hillman Imp wheels for my '95 Mayfair. For some reason I like the look of the regular Mini steels, and with the added dish on the Imps', its hard to resist.

After doing some research on the subject of fitment and suitability, I've found a fair amount of conflicting information. Some people say they're fine, others mention the nut sizes for them are different and that it is dangerous to use them as a straight swap.
Bmcecosse mentions manufacturing custom wheel nuts in this thread http://www.theminifo...77-wheel-studs/
Mini 4o mentions problems with the larger stud holes in this thread http://www.theminifo...77-wheel-studs/

What to do? Can I fit them with custom nuts (if so where from?).
I do rather a lot of motorway driving, so don't fancy them coming off unexpectedly!

Thanks
Henry

[bmcecosse]

Yes - they do need special nuts - the Mini nuts are not large enough to hold the wheels safely.

[minimissionary]

Aha! Just the man I was hoping for!

Could I not use tapered ones? If not, where could I get some machined, and what should I ask for?

[bmcecosse]

It was 40 +years ago now - we used larger hex bar, drilled and tapped them 3/8" UNF and then turned the correct taper on them. You will need to compare with a wheel to find that taper !!
These are actually Viva wheels in this shot - we later used Imp wheels. No one else was using 12" wheels at the time - caused quite a stir!!

Edited by bmcecosse, 30 April 2012 - 11:28 PM.

[minimissionary]

Crikey. I'm way out of my depth. Want to buy some Imp wheels?