Aluminum alloy model T wheels

stickshift

stickshift

Senior Member
Some months ago, I saw a model T speedster on BAT that had aluminum alloy spoked wheels. From a distance they looked similar to the original wood spoked wheels. Does anyone know if theses are still available and are they a viable replacement for the originals?
 
Here's a link to the speedster I am referring to:

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1914-ford-model-t-6/

I'm kicking myself for not buying this car because it was a great price and only 90 minutes away from me.

I like the look of multiple spokes and the listing does say cast aluminum. There's no telling how long ago these wheels were made, and maybe limited production runs due to lack of demand. I do think they would be safer and trouble-free compared to the wood wheels. I'm constantly checking mine for any looseness or decay.
 
That speedster has factory wood spoke wheels. The steering wheel has an aluminum "spider" (the hub and spokes).
rd_model-t_IMG_20230817_091757778_HDR-07122-scaled.jpg



1914_ford_model-t_img_20230817_092005126_hdr-43205.jpg
 
Astute observation there, 38 Coupe ! The "P" jointer (Pruden) plate is clearly visible - only on wood felloe wheels !
 
One way that they could be aluminum would be if the individual spokes were cast from aluminum then assembled like OEM wood spokers would be. The spokes appear to be individual. I also wonder how wood will take to the baking oven for powder coat. The offer of the subject car is from the son of the original owner so there may be some loss in information between the generations. This link shows an Aluma Spoke wheel set up in a later post but they are clearly marked as such. They also seem to have gaps in the interface between spokes. The fit would have to be perfect to have no gaps.
http://www.mtfca.com/discus/messages/179374/192179.html?1298403340

I still wonder what is wrong with Hickory spokes and regular automotive paint. With care, they last many years. Helicopter main rotor blades were made of wood until the late 50s and early 60s.
 
There was a guy selling wheels, I think they were steel. Look at Northwest Vintage Speedsters website. Car #7 Howard Genrich. I think he was the one making the wheels.
 
"23″ cast aluminum wheels with steel rims" ?
The joint plates could have been used when attaching the wheels to the rim.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top