What Wheels Are These?, Unknown Wheels - Look Like Minilite Options

[clarkcou]

I had the 1997 (or 1987? per DOT date code) tires pulled off of these rims so I can clean them up and repaint them. I have not found any markings on them indicating the brand. If I measured correctly they are 15 x 5.5. They had Avon 195/60 15 tires mounted on them.

Any one know what they may be? I believe true mini liters would have the name embossed on them. Any suggestions for cleaning up the old paint overspray on the inside back?

Sorry for the poor quality picture. Taken at dusk.

Randy
Phoenix

[Freezin 914]

Look like Empi type to me.

[mepstein]

probably empi or similar. Not even close to minilites.

[type47fan]

Identifying EMPI 8 spoke wheels:

Genuine, original EMPIs are two piece wheels that seal with a large o-ring between the halves or, more likely, run tubes.





The EMPI logo is cast into the spoke web, directly opposite the valve stem.

The wheels are mounted on screw in threaded studs. There are steel hex closed lug nuts torqued down on steel centering bushings that slip over the studs.



The original center caps had 4 tabs for attachment.

[clarkcou]

Thanks. So not empis and not minilites

[oakdalecurtis]

Always thought mine were Empi's. My center caps do not have the 4 screw tabs but just pop in. Does that help identify them?

[jmitro]

empi repros.
I had those on my 73 VW bug 25 years ago (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

[brant]

empi reproductions

heavy
cheap
probably have the wrong offset
and still sold new affordable

[oakdalecurtis]

empi reproductions

heavy
cheap
probably have the wrong offset
and still sold new affordable

Hey Brant,
I've had the car and wheels (came with) for 20 years, no wheel rubbing or problems at all. How would I identify if the offset is wrong, and does it matter if the wheels don't rub or have any identifiable running issues?

[brant]

empi reproductions

heavy
cheap
probably have the wrong offset
and still sold new affordable

Hey Brant,
I've had the car and wheels (came with) for 20 years, no wheel rubbing or problems at all. How would I identify if the offset is wrong, and does it matter if the wheels don't rub or have any identifiable running issues?

take one off and measure from the back

I believe these wheels came in 2 different offsets... a VW one is most common
brant

[jos.hall]

American Eagle made EMPI reproductions as early as the early to mid 80s. They’re probably the most common 4 lug aftermarket wheel available and usually resale between $80-100/set of 4 at the swap meets.

[brant]

I don't remember what measurement the 2 distinct offsets were.
perhaps someone reading along will have that data and post it.

the VW offset requires a narrow tire.. 185 or more narrow as I recall
you are probably fine and have the correct offset if you have tires wider than that on the car.

[type47fan]

Here is a The Samba thread that discusses wheel fitment and mentions changes in the EMPI style wheels over time:

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/archive/i...t-693428--.html

Here's a supplier's example that lists modern (current) EMPI fitment specs:

https://www.performanceplustire.com/buy-whe...1973:ws:15x5-5/

Handy backspace-offset calculator:

http://www.gtsparkplugs.com/Backspace-Offset-Calculator.html

[clarkcou]

I need to buy tires for theses wheels. I have never had my 914 on the road, and these wheels (15"x5.5") have not been used on this car except as a motor less roller. I took off 205/60/15 tires, but after reviewing posts here and on PP it seems to me that 205/65/15 would be a more logical choice.

Your thoughts?