minilites [Archive] - Pro-Touring.com

zman1969

10-31-2007, 10:18 AM

http://www.etwheels.com/ac/

here is a link to their website i dont see anything bigger than 17"
but who knows they may be able to make them for you may give them a call they were very helpful when i spoke to them

Tito

10-31-2007, 03:27 PM

Vintage Wheel Works V48 wheels are pretty close to the old minilite wheels. I'm happy with mine.
Wheel info here:
http://www.vintagewheelworks.com/products/wheels/v48
VWW Pic Pages here:
http://www.vintagewheelworks.com/view.php?dir=0&img_id=39

dipren443

10-31-2007, 03:38 PM

Zman, Im planning on putting them on my 79 firebird. But I would like a larger diameter for the rear. Is there a way to modify the original wheel to get an 18 or 19 inch diameter?

If your pockets are deep enough, Superlite can help you out. They make 3 Piece Minilite style wheels in 18" and 19". Seeing as they are in the UK and the exchange rate is beyond comprehension, prepare to drop some coin.

http://www.superlite-wheels.com/wheelpage.asp?cat=2

I have a quote for 17's and 18's somewhere in my email. I will dig it up for you.

Ok, found it:

Dated 13 July 2007:

8x17 @ 360.00 pounds sterling each
8x18 @ 389.00 Pounds sterling each
9.5x17@ 397.00 pounds sterling each
9.5x18 @ 438.00 pounds sterling each

If you do not stay up on exchange rates, the pound is over twice the equivalent USD. Multiply those numbers by 2.08 to get our price... :scared:

kmcanally

10-31-2007, 04:32 PM

dipren443

10-31-2007, 05:30 PM

Interesting...the price list actually shows 20" wheels as well. Here it is, double the price for USD. I think I will order me some 12x5's and start a new trend.

http://www.superlite-wheels.com/Ultralite3PiecePrice.html

There is a fair amount of discrepancy between those prices and what I was emailed in July... I went off those prices on their site and was thinking I would buy a set. When I received the email with the updated ones, I changed my mind a bit....

thunderzy

11-01-2007, 04:44 PM

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!! I knew someone here would have an answer! Thanks Dipren443

dipren443

11-01-2007, 06:27 PM

I will be looking forward to pics if you do order a set. I really want to order a set of 17's or 18's, but can't decide if I want to drop somewhere around $3K on them...

I am going to call up PS Engineering and get a price quote from them as well. I really want a set of Minilite styled wheels for my 2nd Gen Z/28... I am really not a fan of all the bling/billet stuff out there, but want room to clear some decent sized brakes.

Damn True

11-01-2007, 06:41 PM

When you get the info from PS Engineering please post it up here. I have all but settled on the Team III wheels due to price and the fact that they are local, but if PS has better prices who knows?

thunderzy

11-01-2007, 06:45 PM

Im not close to buying anything right now. I agree with you, Im not a fan of the billet stuff either. Im looking for the vintage look with modern dimensions. Its either the superlites or the pontiac rallye 2 by billet vintiques. I prefer the superlite's because they give that trans am racing look! Ill write superlite an email and list their pricing here when I get it. Thanks every one for your help!!

dipren443

11-01-2007, 06:56 PM

When you get the info from PS Engineering please post it up here. I have all but settled on the Team III wheels due to price and the fact that they are local, but if PS has better prices who knows?

True,

I will be calling PS tomorrow. I saw some positive info on a FFR (Factory Five Racing) webpage making some remarks about a set of wheels from PS running 1400 for a replica cobra. I don't know how this relates to the Minilite rep price, but I have seen pics of PS's minilite reps and they are much closer to the original than Team III's. I am not a fan of the ridge around the center hub area. That is what drew me to the superlite...

As soon as I have some info from PS, I will post it up.

Nick

dipren443

11-02-2007, 08:32 AM

TonyL

11-02-2007, 09:59 AM

Phil is AWESOME and hand makes all of his wheels himself. He's a little difficult to get a hold of, but bear with him. He's one of the best. His wheels are worth the extra money if you ask me.

TonyL

11-02-2007, 10:00 AM

actually. have a look at this

http://jr.stangnet.com/PSE.htm

It'll give you some insight into what goes into making his wheels.

dipren443

11-02-2007, 10:54 AM

Thanks for the link Tony. I actually stumbled upon it through a google search and was more than pleased after seeing the center chunk of the Minilite rep. Looks far better than the other replicas I have seen.

I will not be hesitating to order a set of wheels from him. Now to figure out backspacing.

thunderzy

11-02-2007, 11:50 AM

Dipren where did you see a picture of his minilite reps? I cant find it!

dipren443

11-02-2007, 12:01 PM

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Damn True

11-02-2007, 01:49 PM

PS Wheels it will be for me!!!

I just got off the phone with PS and was quoted the following prices:

17 x 8: $445 each

17 x 9.5: $465 each

They are a little more than the Team III wheels, but being that they are exact duplicates of the Minilite wheels in appearance, I will be much happier with them.

He also said that the wheels are in stock, and he could have them done in short order. Now only if I had the cash right now. :(

That's $100 more per wheel. Wow.

I'd like to see a photo of them against the Team III version.

dipren443

11-02-2007, 03:24 PM

That's $100 more per wheel. Wow.

I'd like to see a photo of them against the Team III version.

There is no doubt the Team III wheel is a nice looking wheel. I think my biggest complaint about both it and the Vintage Wheel Works versions is that they are an interpretation of the original and not an exact copy. I am not a fan of the ridge that runs around the center hub on those two. Per Phil Schmidt, his are exact duplicates of an original Minilite. For me, that is worth the 100 per wheel as I much prefer the original design.

Nick

Damn True

11-02-2007, 04:05 PM

I'd like to see some pics of the PS wheels.

NvrDun71

11-02-2007, 06:28 PM

Heres a scanned in pic I found online from their catalog awhile back that shows a few of their wheels:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/11332PSE11-1.jpg

dipren443

11-06-2007, 08:25 PM

I'd like to see some pics of the PS wheels.

True,

As long as Mr. Schmidt doesn't have any issues with my plan, you will get your wish. I am travelling out to CA for work tomorrow morning. I have three cities to stop in: Victorville, San Jose, and Pittsburg. I will be calling PSE to see if he will be ok with my stopping by and getting an up close and personal look at his place and his wheels. On top of that, I will bring my camera, and if he is OK with it, I will snap some pics of his wheels. Specifically the two styles of trans am wheels (Torq thrust and minilite reps).

Nick

70RT/SE

11-06-2007, 08:54 PM

I have the Team III wheels. When I was shopping for wheels I was interested in the PS wheels but he was just too hard to contact.

Damn True

11-06-2007, 09:15 PM

I have the Team III wheels. When I was shopping for wheels I was interested in the PS wheels but he was just too hard to contact.

Beautiful car!!!

Damn True

11-06-2007, 09:16 PM

True,

As long as Mr. Schmidt doesn't have any issues with my plan, you will get your wish. I am travelling out to CA for work tomorrow morning. I have three cities to stop in: Victorville, San Jose, and Pittsburg. I will be calling PSE to see if he will be ok with my stopping by and getting an up close and personal look at his place and his wheels. On top of that, I will bring my camera, and if he is OK with it, I will snap some pics of his wheels. Specifically the two styles of trans am wheels (Torq thrust and minilite reps).

Nick

Nick,

Cool, what are you up to in San Jose? Will you be coming through here before or after PSE?

NvrDun71

11-07-2007, 01:03 PM

TonyL

11-07-2007, 02:38 PM

Find out how much he charges for his TransAm style lug nuts when you're there!

dipren443

11-07-2007, 04:17 PM

Find out how much he charges for his TransAm style lug nuts when you're there!

Sure thing Tony ;)

I spoke with Phil earlier today and will be stopping by his shop sometime mid morning tomorrrow. I will take good notes. If anyone wants any more info from him, please respond to this thread by this evening.

Nick

dipren443

11-07-2007, 04:21 PM

Nick,

Cool, what are you up to in San Jose? Will you be coming through here before or after PSE?

You have a PM.

Damn True

11-07-2007, 04:37 PM

Really?

I don't see it.

If you can get a price sheet out of Phil, please do.

TonyL

11-07-2007, 04:40 PM

I talked to phil today. His price on those lug nuts are 25% of what others have quoted them for. Phil is reluctant to sell just the nuts though.

Damn True

11-07-2007, 04:42 PM

Can't blame him. My nuts aren't for sale either.

.....but the right girl, with the right $$$ might be able to rent 'em.

What is 25% of waaay too much?

Mr.VENGEANCE

11-07-2007, 09:08 PM

What is 25% of waaay too much?

that post is..

LOL

NvrDun71

11-07-2007, 09:53 PM

Sure thing Tony ;)

I spoke with Phil earlier today and will be stopping by his shop sometime mid morning tomorrrow. I will take good notes. If anyone wants any more info from him, please respond to this thread by this evening.

Nick

Some detailed pics of the Trans Am style wheels would be great :cheers:

TonyL

11-07-2007, 10:11 PM

I've seen a set of TransAm style nuts going for 400 bucks. Phil's are 120.
Hardly cheap, but very cool.

Damn True

11-08-2007, 09:07 AM

$6 per is a lot easier to swallow than $20.

My nuts are far more expensive than that. Ensures a higher level clientele.

4MuscleMachines

11-08-2007, 02:17 PM

FYI, here is an example of the TeamIII wheel in 17" size.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/4r2sxtu-1.jpg
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/5z4jsrp-1.jpg

Mr.VENGEANCE

11-08-2007, 06:02 PM

those look awesome..

i wonder how well they perform..

Damn True

11-08-2007, 06:05 PM

They aren't the lightest thing out there, but they have a forged hoop and a rather beefy center.

I'm no metalurgys.....metalurgical....meteorolo....uh.... smart guy with metal stuff but I'd imagine that the large number of load paths (all the spoke thingys) provide a good distribution of load over a rather wide area.

....and damn, they do look good eh?

dipren443

11-09-2007, 06:59 AM

dipren443

11-09-2007, 09:19 AM

Here you go fellas. I didn't take pics of anything else, as the brochure pretty much will cover all of that. Click the photo to link to the complete album. Also, the trans am lug nuts are included in the price when you buy a set of trans am style wheels (Either the early or late style).

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/11/DSC_7939JPG-1.jpg (http://picasaweb.google.com/nicholas.diprenda/PSEMiniliteReplicas)

SHANE 73Z

11-09-2007, 10:40 AM

One pic! Your fired......lol

Since it appears that the backspace is set by positioning the center in the hoop, were you able to get some dimensions of the centers to see what kind of brake clearance is available?

Shane

TonyL

11-09-2007, 10:45 AM

Click that pic. there's a whole gallery under it.

lvrpool32

11-09-2007, 11:15 AM

The PS wheel is really really nice....I would have gone for the minlite wheel from any one of these guys if they where available in 18".

dipren443

11-09-2007, 11:50 AM

Click that pic. there's a whole gallery under it.

Thanks Tony. Shane, remind me to slap you when I get back to Pittsburgh for not reading... :machine:

Ahh yes, one thing I forgot to do.... DOH!!! I will email Phil and ask for the clearance from the back of mating surface to the spoke. And you are correct, by varying the hoop widths, he can provide just about any backspace you want.

TonyL

11-09-2007, 11:52 AM

Phil can also machine the back of the rim to clear any brake system. He's got a lathe right in the shop especially for this.

See here (http://www.donshotrodpage.net/Project-RAM/Wheels.html)

buickfunnycar.com

11-09-2007, 06:49 PM

Phil is AWESOME and hand makes all of his wheels himself. He's a little difficult to get a hold of, but bear with him. He's one of the best. His wheels are worth the extra money if you ask me.

I was gonna say this same thing...Phil is great but sounds like a one-man operation almost to me so be patient,he does manufacture some great parts.

PS Engineering,Inc.
(213) 534-4477

dipren443

11-09-2007, 07:25 PM

I was gonna say this same thing...Phil is great but sounds like a one-man operation almost to me so be patient,he does manufacture some great parts.

PS Engineering,Inc.
(310) 534-4477

Fixed the area code for you. ;) He has a student working for him part time, so I guess you could say it is a one and half man operation.

I can say without doubt that he is getting my business.

Damn True

11-09-2007, 08:29 PM

I am interested in seeing his prices vs. Team IIIs.

Did he give you any insight into their ability to handle track or auto-x use?

TonyL

11-09-2007, 09:48 PM

his prices range to 150 to 200 per wheel more. With that you get perfect replicas. not something close.

It always bugged me that the Unique Performance guys weren't using his rims. The real Elenore ran them

dipren443

11-12-2007, 11:46 AM

I am interested in seeing his prices vs. Team IIIs.

Did he give you any insight into their ability to handle track or auto-x use?

The hoops are rolled (he purchases these), which is a standard process for manufacturing multi piece alloy wheels. The centers are solution heat treated to a T6 temper. I won't bore you with the metallurgical details, but T6 is a precipitation hardening method and ensures for maximum strength without sacrificing other critical material properties.

It should also be of note that PSE manufactures wheels for many historic racing vehicles that see regular track duty.

zman1969

11-13-2007, 03:21 PM

Does PS make any other than the cobra replica type? im still looking for something similar to the Act III that i pictured above but i couldnt find much googling PS Wheels ? links?
edit
didnt see the pic when i was posting, i just cant post fast during uh work? :) now id like to see some better pics of the actIII wheels- any one?

TonyL

11-13-2007, 03:50 PM

you didn't see this on page 2 of the thread did ya?
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/08/11332PSE11-1.jpg

those are all PSE wheels.

dipren443

11-13-2007, 06:38 PM

Does PS make any other than the cobra replica type? im still looking for something similar to the Act III that i pictured above but i couldnt find much googling PS Wheels ? links?

Zman,

I have to say, you have me a bit confused... The Act III, which I think you mean Team III wheel, is a Minilite replica as are the wheels I went out of my way to visit PSE and photograph. So yes he does make a Minilite replica.

Also, I am going to scan the whole catalog in tonight. He makes even more replicas, but many of them would be useless to us (Pin drive knock off racing alloys).

As soon as I scan the catalog, I will post links.

Nick

zman1969

11-14-2007, 06:00 AM

no i didnt see that on page 2 thanks Tony
Dipren 443 you are right i would like to see close ups of the Team III wheel .............buehler - buehler :guilty:

Damn True

11-14-2007, 08:12 AM

Team III has a website.

zman1969

11-14-2007, 08:31 AM

Damn True, yes ive been there but there isnt much as far as pictures as above for the PS wheels - i liked them but can i justify 6-800$ more for wheels - hard enough to justify what i was looking at :twothumbs

Damn True

11-14-2007, 10:39 AM

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2007/07/5z4jsrp-1.jpg

https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=19967&d=1194411228

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

zman1969

11-14-2007, 02:35 PM

after looking at them and comparing them with the PS wheels i still like them better -the Team III that is, Thanks DamnTrue

Damn True

11-14-2007, 02:52 PM

I'm here to help.....and I agree. The PS versions are really, really nice. But I can't find justification (for me at least) for the extra expense and since Team III is a Bay Area business as well I'm going to go with them.

But I'll be looking into Phil's nuts.

TonyL

11-14-2007, 03:04 PM

But I'll be looking into Phil's nuts.

Must. Resist. ....

LOL

zman1969

11-14-2007, 03:09 PM

Must. Resist. ....

LOL

ROFLMAO :lmao:
that isnt what you posted you left off the LUG

Damn True

11-14-2007, 03:09 PM

Must. Resist. ....

LOL

The LUG nuts ya perve.

dipren443

11-14-2007, 03:11 PM

The LUG nuts ya perve.

Now you are just back pedalling. We all know what you really meant... :evil:

zman1969

11-14-2007, 03:21 PM

PS Wheels it will be for me!!!

I just got off the phone with PS and was quoted the following prices:

17 x 8: $445 each

17 x 9.5: $465 each

They are a little more than the Team III wheels, but being that they are exact duplicates of the Minilite wheels in appearance, I will be much happier with them.

He also said that the wheels are in stock, and he could have them done in short order. Now only if I had the cash right now. :(
Ok heres another PS question are all his minilite replicas polished cause Team III wants 200$ more per wheel for the polished version :
17 x 9 1/2

3 1/2 – 7

7 –3 1/2

335$
unpolished
535$ polished
so maybe the PS arent more the Team III polished are

dipren443

11-14-2007, 03:24 PM

Ok heres another PS question are all his minilite replicas polished cause Team III wants 200$ more per wheel for the polished version :
17 x 9 1/2

3 1/2 – 7

7 –3 1/2

335$
unpolished
535$ polished
so maybe the PS arent more the Team III polished are

PS Wheels come with polished hoops and a shot peened center. They are not full polish.

Take this as you will, but I think this style of wheel would look terrible fully polished. Just my opinion though.

Damn True

11-14-2007, 03:51 PM

Take this as you will, but I think this style of wheel would look terrible fully polished. Just my opinion though.

Agreed.

zman1969

11-15-2007, 05:52 AM

Dipren443 i agree too, I meant the Lip too. I wonder what the Team III look like w/o polish their website dosent have many pics at all :box2:

vanzuuk1

11-18-2007, 04:09 PM

Phils nuts are not conical, wont work with vintage wheel works wheels,damn his nuts.

Rick Dorion

11-19-2007, 05:19 AM

Dirk, the stock lug nuts on my VWW are shanked. Are yours conical?

vanzuuk1

11-23-2007, 09:01 AM

I believe so Rick, I will check them later. I will PM you after I check my nuts.Yecch.

Did you get to watch the dvds, I sent you a bonus dvd.

kball

11-24-2007, 10:11 AM

what are these trans am lug nuts all about? Anybody got a close up pic to end the mystery?

TonyL

11-24-2007, 11:08 AM

This is what TA highnut style lug nuts look like. These are NOT phil's, these are custom stainless ones that cost 400 bones a set!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

dipren443

11-24-2007, 11:13 AM

This is what TA highnut style lug nuts look like. These are NOT phil's, these are custom stainless ones that cost 400 bones a set!

Tony,

Do you know the source of these stainless ones???

Nick

68Formula

11-24-2007, 11:43 AM

Tony,

Do you know the source of these stainless ones???

Nick

You want $400 lug nuts? You people are insane! Please send your unwanted money to me. I will find it a good home. I need a nice decent set of rims, but can't afford them. My last ones were $1000 for a set but they look dated.

dipren443

11-24-2007, 11:57 AM

You want $400 lug nuts? You people are insane! Please send your unwanted money to me. I will find it a good home. I need a nice decent set of rims, but can't afford them. My last ones were $1000 for a set but they look dated.

LOL. I can respect your opinion. But hey, sometimes you gotta pay to play. I saw Phil's nuts first hand (There you go, I left that one wide open for the jokester's) and they were nice, but I could see the zinc plating not lasting and just might be willing to pony up the cash for some machined stainless ones.

68Formula

11-24-2007, 12:11 PM

It's like the joke where you can read it two ways....

"The guys nuts... grab 'em!"

TonyL

11-24-2007, 12:27 PM

Tony,

Do you know the source of these stainless ones???

Nick

PM member Musclecarjohn. He's the guy with the hookup on how to get those lugnuts. A machinist buddy of his makes them on a case by case basis.

vanzuuk1

11-24-2007, 06:14 PM

Is there another place to get these elusive nuts? 400 is too steep and phils wont work for me.....help.

Rick Dorion

11-25-2007, 04:25 AM

Dirk the dvd's are too cool. I need a time machine. Think I need to create a vert trans-am replica!

lvrpool32

11-26-2007, 11:12 AM

Is there another place to get these elusive nuts? 400 is too steep and phils wont work for me.....help.

Dirk, I just took a set of shank style ones and am having a machine shop do a 60 degree tapered seat on them. As they are doing them at their leisure dont think it will cost me that much.

Nick

wendell

11-26-2007, 01:10 PM

I just read through this post. Are folks looking for the long shank, no taper lug nuts? If so I 'm pretty sure I can track them down. We have a few hands full of chromed ones in the shop.

As an aside, did the guy making stailess steel lugs endorse them? I can think of a single attribute that SS has that would make it atractive for a lug nut.

TonyL

11-26-2007, 01:13 PM

actually, I think they are looking for tapered ones. Finding ones that are flat shanked is still hard. But finding ones that are tapered is nigh impossible.

wendell

11-27-2007, 07:41 AM

If some one posts a pic I'd be let confused and possibly more helpful.

Rick Dorion

11-27-2007, 07:58 AM

I'll check tonight. I believe the Vintage Wheel Works are shanked but I'll confirm.

vanzuuk1

11-27-2007, 03:28 PM

Nick , I will give you a jingle.

buickfunnycar.com

11-27-2007, 04:07 PM

You want $400 lug nuts? You people are insane! Please send your unwanted money to me. I will find it a good home. I need a nice decent set of rims, but can't afford them. My last ones were $1000 for a set but they look dated.

Those stainless steel long-style trans-am lug nuts on the Yellow '69 Z/28 are of my car...I have them on all three of my cars...and I can attest I am not insane.Some people wouldn't pay $1200 for 3 sets of lug nuts,some will...plain & simple.If you want the look and you want to play,sometimes ya gotta pay.

I have two sets of PSE long-style lugs too,those are the shank style and won't work with the VWW wheels...or any modern wheels that I can think of.I use those exclusively for my older AR 200S wheels.They are just flash polished and zinc plated and eventually,they peel & flake...prolly why I have two sets.

PM me guys if you need the machinist's name.I had some nice detailed close-up pics in my photobucket account but I must have deleted them.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

70RT/SE

11-27-2007, 05:58 PM

actually, I think they are looking for tapered ones. Finding ones that are flat shanked is still hard. But finding ones that are tapered is nigh impossible.

There is a guy I met at the local cruise spot that has a 69 z-28 with real minilites. He has the long Trans Am lug nuts. I asked him where he got them and he said a shop in Georgia...I think.

Do the real minilites use tapered lug nuts?

buickfunnycar.com

11-27-2007, 08:49 PM

There is a guy I met at the local cruise spot that has a 69 z-28 with real minilites. He has the long Trans Am lug nuts. I asked him where he got them and he said a shop in Georgia...I think.

Do the real minilites use tapered lug nuts?

My buddy owns this car...and has since it was new.He has one set of the modern minilights you see here and has another one on order and I believe they require tapered lugs.This car is now used exclusively for track events:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Rick Dorion

11-30-2007, 05:09 AM

I checked the lugnuts on my VWW - they have a short shank, perhaps 1/4" and beveled base. Kind of a hybrid!

NvrDun71

01-31-2008, 02:32 PM

Fixed the area code for you. ;) He has a student working for him part time, so I guess you could say it is a one and half man operation.

I can say without doubt that he is getting my business.

Did you ever order the PS Engr. minilites? Pics?

dipren443

01-31-2008, 03:02 PM

Did you ever order the PS Engr. minilites? Pics?

I am in the process of ordering mine right now. I had to wait until I had my tax refund. I just processed my tax refund and I am working on placing the order. Just trying to determine what backspacing I want to run. Expect pics in the next month or so.

buickfunnycar.com

01-31-2008, 03:21 PM

I am in the process of ordering mine right now. I had to wait until I had my tax refund. I just processed my tax refund and I am working on placing the order. Just trying to determine what backspacing I want to run. Expect pics in the next month or so.

Awesome...will look forward to seeing them.:yum:
What b/spacing are you considering and what size tires?

dipren443

01-31-2008, 03:34 PM

Awesome...will look forward to seeing them.:yum:
What b/spacing are you considering and what size tires?

I am currently trying to figure out all of this. I just sent Phil an email asking for the clearance from the back of the spoke to the hub/rotor mating surface. I am also in the process of trying to nail down my brake package... I am going to be running Porsche Brembo Big Reds. I want to make sure I have ZERO clearance issues. Once I have the dimensions of the caliper, the clearance referenced above and I know what rotor offset I will be running, I will nail all of this down.

Wow, that seemed like a mouthful there...

Plans are to run
F: 17x8 or 8.5 and R: 17x9.5
Tire: As much as I can fit. :bananna2:

buickfunnycar.com

01-31-2008, 03:52 PM

I am currently trying to figure out all of this. I just sent Phil an email asking for the clearance from the back of the spoke to the hub/rotor mating surface. I am also in the process of trying to nail down my brake package... I am going to be running Porsche Brembo Big Reds. I want to make sure I have ZERO clearance issues. Once I have the dimensions of the caliper, the clearance referenced above and I know what rotor offset I will be running, I will nail all of this down.

Wow, that seemed like a mouthful there...

Plans are to run
F: 17x8 or 8.5 and R: 17x9.5
Tire: As much as I can fit. :bananna2:

Is this on a '69 Camaro?
If so,4.875" b/s on a 8" wide wheel and 5.5" b/s on a 9.5" wide wheel should work nicely.You could even go to 5" b/s on the fronts but 4.875" is very safe.I run that same combo on my VWW V-40's with 245/45's & 285/40's...fit's perfect.
I have some 315/35's I bought cheap (Sumitomo's) that I want to try on the 9.5's.I know 10" is the minimum wheel width recommended but I want to see if I can squeeze those on the '69 for that old-school T/A look.:naughty:

dipren443

01-31-2008, 05:42 PM

Is this on a '69 Camaro?
If so,4.875" b/s on a 8" wide wheel and 5.5" b/s on a 9.5" wide wheel should work nicely.You could even go to 5" b/s on the fronts but 4.875" is very safe.I run that same combo on my VWW V-40's with 245/45's & 285/40's...fit's perfect.
I have some 315/35's I bought cheap (Sumitomo's) that I want to try on the 9.5's.I know 10" is the minimum wheel width recommended but I want to see if I can squeeze those on the '69 for that old-school T/A look.:naughty:

John,

These are going on a second gen Camaro. I know there are tried and true BS measurements for these widths, however, what I am most concerned with are the calipers. The wheels will be going on way before the brakes. I wish I could afford to do both at the same time, but just can't. Therefore I am just trying to do a make shift mockup with caliper position before I make my final decision.

Nick

Here is the car in question:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

buickfunnycar.com

01-31-2008, 08:01 PM

Oh...silly me,I should have known.That changes everything...

Nice...gotta love them 2nd gens.

dipren443

02-22-2008, 11:34 PM

Oh...silly me,I should have known.That changes everything...

Nice...gotta love them 2nd gens.

John,

Ok, have to fess up. Couldn't go with the PSE minilites... :(

Due to the way Phil builds the wheels and the fact that I don't want to compromise on brakes, he is not capable of building the offset I need for the front. I have placed an order for the Team III LTIII Minilite replicas. I should have them in ~6 weeks.

You have a PM in regards to the lug nuts.

Nick

buickfunnycar.com

02-25-2008, 10:04 AM

No problem Nick...I understand his limitations.

You should have the contact info on the lugs now...:usa:

dipren443

02-25-2008, 03:27 PM

No problem Nick...I understand his limitations.

You should have the contact info on the lugs now...:usa:

Thank you sir. I am feeling pretty positive in regards to what I have accomplished on the car this winter. Between the new rolling stock and my Vintage Air A/C, I moving right along on her.
:6gears:

dipren443

04-01-2008, 05:33 PM

Like a kid on Christmas morning I tell ya!!!!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/DSC_8410JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/DSC_8411JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/DSC_8412JPG-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/04/DSC_8414JPG-1.jpg

NOT A TA

04-01-2008, 05:42 PM

Those look really nice!

Damn True

04-01-2008, 05:43 PM

Ok, now powder coat the centers flat black and ship them to my house.

What'd you wind up spending?

dipren443

04-01-2008, 05:45 PM

Ok, now powder coat the centers flat black and ship them to my house.

What'd you wind up spending?

I would have to double check the invoice, but it was right around $1450 with freight all the way across the US.

Damn True

04-01-2008, 05:47 PM

Not bad. I'll be able to just drive to Hayward to pick them up so no shipping for me.

dipren443

04-01-2008, 05:57 PM

Not bad. I'll be able to just drive to Hayward to pick them up so no shipping for me.

Ah yes, but pay tax you will. :rotfl:

buickfunnycar.com

04-01-2008, 07:36 PM

looking good man...:usa:

dipren443

05-05-2008, 07:23 AM

Halfway there fellas:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

buickfunnycar.com

05-05-2008, 09:25 AM

I'm feeling the Trans-Am look man....:cool:

Damn True

05-05-2008, 09:44 AM

very nice, I'm up next

dipren443

05-05-2008, 09:47 AM

very nice, I'm up next

You got a PM.

dipren443

06-07-2008, 10:53 AM

Finally got a hold of all the parts needed for the 4th gen rear discs. All that is needed now is to bleed the brake system. Went ahead and put the rear wheels on last night. Once I get the system bled and take her for a spin, I will snap some better pics of the car outside.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

buickfunnycar.com

06-07-2008, 02:01 PM

I like it man...:headbang:

55chevyman

06-08-2008, 03:51 PM

those look sweet man!

mikes69z

01-15-2009, 05:31 PM

Why not go with an original set of Minilites?

They're still available

dipren443

01-15-2009, 05:32 PM

Why not go with an original set of Minilites?

They're still available

In 15" only though.

Damn True

01-15-2009, 07:34 PM

Why not go with an original set of Minilites?

They're still available

They are better looking in that size, I'll grant you that, but it would severely limit my tire and brake choices.

Mr.VENGEANCE

01-15-2009, 09:56 PM

what size are those Dipren?

dipren443

01-16-2009, 03:27 AM

what size are those Dipren?

Front: 17 x 8 w/ 245/45-17
Rear: 17 x 9.5 w/ 275/40-17

zman1969

02-18-2009, 06:25 PM

Dipren, I assume those are the polished version they look sweet!! but I haven't seen the unpolished from them has- anyone? my car is still in body jail but the cowl and firewall are painted and I'm about ready to install eng/trans so the bodyman can assemble the front end and the rear end and leaf springs are almost ready to install too, so im still a year or 2 off to the point of actually ordering wheels :crying:
oh and other than the 400$ lugs what else is available out there? pics anyone?

dipren443

02-18-2009, 06:29 PM

Dipren, I assume those are the polished version they look sweet!! but I haven't seen the unpolished from them has- anyone? my car is still in body jail but the cowl and firewall are painted and I'm about ready to install eng/trans so the bodyman can assemble the front end and the rear end and leaf springs are almost ready to install too, so im still a year or 2 off to the point of actually ordering wheels :crying:

Polished lips are standard with painted centers. That is the look I chose. You can get the whole wheel polished too, but I don't think that look suits the minilite style very well.

zman1969

02-19-2009, 02:00 PM

Damn True

02-19-2009, 02:06 PM

I looked into the PS Eng. version and the price was too high and he couldn't accommodate my sizing needs anyway. The VWW version is a little off in terms of the shape of the spokes IMO. Same price range as the Team III, but fewer sizes.

zman1969

02-19-2009, 02:31 PM

Damn True - I meant lug nuts (giggle) Dipren what type of lugs do the TeamIII wheels take- 60 degree tapered? or short or long mag shank lugs?

Damn True

02-19-2009, 02:38 PM

Maeco Motorsports sells some nifty aluminum long lug nuts. They are pretty proud of them though (rather spendy) but not as spendy as the ones from PS engineering.

I've been trying to talk Steve-O (Twist Machine) into making them.

zman1969

02-19-2009, 02:48 PM

PS engineering lugs? has anyone got pics yet? I really like the look of the $400 lugs -but I am not gonna play that game - somebody has got to be able to make some in steel / chrome for 2-3$ ea

dipren443

02-19-2009, 03:10 PM

PS engineering lugs? has anyone got pics yet? I really like the look of the $400 lugs -but I am not gonna play that game - somebody has got to be able to make some in steel / chrome for 2-3$ ea

Phil's nuts are not available :P Separately that is. He only sells them with the wheels.

I take this back... I saw they were listed on Maeco's site. When I toured Phil's shop, he specifically told me he didn't sell the lugs separately. Must have changed his tone.

dipren443

02-19-2009, 03:11 PM

Damn True - I meant lug nuts (giggle) Dipren what type of lugs do the TeamIII wheels take- 60 degree tapered? or short or long mag shank lugs?

I will have to look this up. I don't remember :hammer:

EDIT:
Conical seat - 60 degree

dipren443

02-19-2009, 03:13 PM

Thanks Nick thats what i was hoping - I wouldnt want the centers polished :barf: I like them like yours! is that a standard painted color or are there options?
anyone else find any cool (but not $400) lug nuts? D/True :hah:did you ever look into anyone elses?
giggle

Mine are painted with the darker shade used on his Cobra replicas. The standard finish on the LTIII's is a lighter grey. It was a special request, but not an additional cost.

zman1969

02-20-2009, 05:50 AM

Nick, thanks I think I'd rather have the lighter "aluminum" look the lugs that are on yours look-from the pics- like a standard length chrome- I guess its not that big of a deal its the style of wheel I'm looking for - being im building a T/A clone and they dont make big rally IIs and I dont care for the billet pontiacs so this is the way I will go. now if my bodyman will ever get mine assembled-then I can do some measurements to see what I can fit and what offset I'll need. yours do look nice - will your car sit lower? kinda has the 4x4 look up front like your engine is out? :smoke:

looked at Maeco's website for lugs 8 types of lug nuts - one picture and all are 5/8" shank or 3/4" no conical :(

dipren443

02-20-2009, 06:02 AM

The lugs are standard chrome right now. They will get changed at a later date. Team III includes closed end lug nuts and these wheels necessitated longer studs. The hub pads are rather thick.

You making fun of my 4x4? :machine:

Honestly, that is the first thing that will be getting taken care of this year. It looks terrible...

SamHatco

02-20-2009, 08:00 AM

Phil's nuts are not available :P Separately that is.

Well.... my nuts are not available also!!!:naughty:

Couldn't resist.

Sam

zman1969

03-11-2009, 12:09 PM

Damn True did you ever get wheels for the pink car? you really need to paint it the orig color being the history of it and all. do you have any pictures of when it was or any others that are?

Damn True

03-11-2009, 12:30 PM

Damn True did you ever get wheels for the pink car? you really need to paint it the orig color being the history of it and all. do you have any pictures of when it was or any others that are?

In order:

Not yet.

No, and thank you for the unsolicited advice.

I don't but I think my grandparents do. Of course....not digital.

zman1969

03-11-2009, 01:42 PM

No, and thank you for the unsolicited advice.

man thats an obscure piece of history! dont mean to offend but you said it was one of 50 copo's - not that I or you would want to cruise around in a pink car but to me, I think that Hugh did that back in the day - is kinda cool - sounds like your plans that its out of the question. I still think that its cool! do you know if any or all were given away? (cant remember if gramps bought it new or not)

buickfunnycar.com

03-11-2009, 02:01 PM

Phil's nuts are not available :P Separately that is. He only sells them with the wheels.

I take this back... I saw they were listed on Maeco's site. When I toured Phil's shop, he specifically told me he didn't sell the lugs separately. Must have changed his tone.

I have two sets of Phil Schmidt's long T/A style lugs for my older 200S wheels I had but they're nothing to really get excited about,cheap flash plating over unpolished steel so if not careful,they will/do peel...besides they are the older shank-style rather than the taper-style,they won't fit much.

He was selling them seperate from the wheels then,maybe he doesn't any longer.I believe they were about $100/set back then ($5/ea.).

The stainless ones I had for sale were like jewelery compared to those...but I understand $300-$400 is not for everyone.

Damn True

03-11-2009, 02:02 PM

man thats an obscure piece of history! dont mean to offend but you said it was one of 50 copo's - not that I or you would want to cruise around in a pink car but to me, I think that Hugh did that back in the day - is kinda cool - sounds like your plans that its out of the question. I still think that its cool! do you know if any or all were given away? (cant remember if gramps bought it new or not)

My Grandparents bought it new from Courtesy Chevrolet in Santa Clara. Playboy Inc. took delivery of 30 or so of the 50 built. The rest went to dealers.