W126 SE / SEC Alloy Wheels - offset and spacers question

[mif]

I have a 380 SEC. It has alloy wheels, they look like original MB type.

But, the wheel bolts only screw in 2-3 turns. And there are 1/4" spacers behind them.

The previous owner muttered something about 'saloon wheels' and 'different offset'. He had put the current wheels on it, it had had a set of wide aftermarket alloys.

So:
Do saloon and coupe wheels have a different offset ?
Are there any identifying marks I can look for ?


Thanks,
--
Mike

 

[Mikesmerc]

Hi Mike
my 560sec had to go for an NCT(MOT) a few months back but the front tyres were pretty bald so I decided to cheat by swapping the front wheels of my 230e. When I bolted them on they refused to turn by hand, must have been rubbing off the caliper or something. The wheels were merc and had the very same pattern but wider on the 560.
It seems as if he did the same as me but added spacers to avoid contact and used the short studs. Not very safe with only a few threads holding the wheel on. If your holding on to these wheels change the studs for the longer type.Check there is no binding by spinning the wheel by hand before letting her down off the jack.
Regards
Mike

 

[talbir]

All W126's require the same offset for wheels - there is no difference between W126 saloon and coupe.

Stock offset is ET25 with a 7J wheel.

You need to consider the ET number WITH the width of the wheel. Looking at the offset alone is not enough.

 

[mif]

Thanks.

Been investigating further. The 4 wheels fitted have no markings I can find.

But, the spare in the boot is clearly marked:
O.Z.
TYP.0192A
7Jx15 H2
ET25

So, I reckon the spare is standard fitment. I shall pull all wheels off again and clean them looking for markings on the inside. And carefully compare measurements against the current spare. And fit the spare to the front and rear and take careful clearance measurements.

...that'll be a fun afternoon's work

-------

I am not comfortable using the surrent setup, but if there are longer studs, that'll do. Do you know what length studs are available ?

Incidentally, the spacers look like general-purpose items, not specifically manufactured for these wheels or car. They are abouut 5mm wide.

--
Mike

 

[mif]

More intell....

A rear wheel does not foul anything with or without spacer.

They are marked (on the inner face):
6.5J x H2
ET49

Part # 124 400 1802 - does this imply they are W124 wheels ?!

--
Mike