Stupid question regarding 73 240 wheels

[mally002]

I just bought a 1973 240, but don't like the aftermarket wheels that are on it. It is a very original Z, save for the wheels and dash cap and I would like to put back on the original 14's.....I think.

I haven't owned a 240 since 1982 so my aged brain can't remember much. First would you even go back to the 14's with hubcaps, or get something else.

If I wanted the originals, do they make an oem type? if so where? Or if I go with a different wheel, what would be the best correct size for the rims? Where do you folks recommend buying wheels.

I know these are newbie questions, and I did do a search, but didn't find anything.

Thanks for any help.

[SteveInOakland]

If you want to go with mags, I'd look for 14x6 or 14x7 in either slot-mag or turbine style. That'll let you use somewhat wider tires than either the original steelies, or narrower mags, would allow for.

If you want original steelies and hubcaps (correct style for 73, ie not the first generation), try to be patient and I'll offer to sell you my set. I'm going with a set of turbines once I get tires onto them.

--Steve.

[mally002]

Steve,

Thanks, and let me know about the wheels I would be very interested in buying them.

Thanks,

Randy

[SteveInOakland]

Will do. Meanwhile, it is amazing to me that this guy still hasn't sold his 14x6 slot mags offered at 4/$100, which is a more than reasonable price. Far as can be seen in photos, they look pretty good --

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/pts/239950494.html

Scan down to bottom.

Steve.

[DougN]

If you want new wheels, you can get a 15x7 American Racing AE/Sprint Wheel for around $500~$800 for a set of 4 (retail is the high number) (see my gallery for pics). If you stick a 195/65/15 tire on them, you'll be at the stock tire diameter of 25", so your speedo should be accurate.

[mally002]

Thanks Doug,

What site do you recommend for wheels, who's got a nice selection with good prices. Thanks.

PS...Your wheels look great!

[DougN]

Actually, I got mine from Kaufmann Tire (do you have them up there?). I was also able to negotiate my price from them. MSA list them, but for high retail price. IIRC, someone else on the site got a great deal for them from an online rims/wheel place, but I don't remember the details right now. You can always do a google search on American Racing AE/Sprint wheels and see if anything comes up :classic:

[SteveInOakland]

Randy -- You might check out a current ad over at zcar.com for slot mags, which will give you one of the original looks. 14x7 and very reasonably priced, no photo. Wheel type can be seen here --

http://www.classiczcars.com/photopost/showphoto.php?photo=17345

[7T1240]

Personally, I like the American Racing Libre wheels for the 240Z Check out this ad on San Francisco craigslist, with tires.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/pts/240715558.html

Glad to see you found a car.

Gary S.

[mally002]

Thanks for the info guys. One last question though, I found a set of steel rims actually here in Knoxville for $50.00. They were off of another 73, they are true, no bends but need a good cleaning. I searched the post but most threads were about "Alloy's" Should these wheels be painted, or just cleaned real good?? What do y'all (southern term) recommend in the cleaning / painting area. What's best for the old "steelies"......and yes I'm going to be putting the stock hup caps back on.

Thanks,

Randy

[7T1240]

Hi Randy,

The stock steel wheels were painted black. Now, whether there is a particular source for the absolute correct color I can't say, but you could contact Les Cannaday, a restoration specialist who was involved in the Nissan restoration program. His website is:

http://www.classicdatsun.com/

Click on contact to email him. He's a good source for numerous Z resto items, including the correct paint if your "Z" hubcaps need a little touching up.

Gary S.

[Arne]

Actually, the original wheels were first painted with a silver-gray paint over the entire wheel, and then the front side had a quick coat of flat black.