Advice on some 107 wheels found at a junkyard

[matt7531]

I came across a burned 81 380SL in a junkyard. The wheels on the car looked unscathed by the fire. It is hard to make out the stamping, but it looks like they were made by "Lorinco" or something close to that. They are alloy wheels, not the bundt type but like the stock alloys found on the later models. The rear wheels have about a two inch offset to allow the mounting of a wider tire. The junkyard wants $240 for the set. First question - will the wider rear tires kill the gas mileage or otherwise cause problems if mounted on a 84 280SL? Has anyone heard of this brand of wheel before? What is the best way to deal with the mag locks if the key is lost? Thanks

Matt

[RickM]

Sure they're not Lorinser wheels? They are popular aftermarket wheel for MB. That doesn't mean they're made for the 107. I'd attempt to contact the mfr directly and ask.

http://www.customwheelsdirect.com/Lorinser/LorinserMain.htm

Regarding the locks; cut them off and throw away.

[matt7531]

Its going to be a ***** to cut them off in the middle of a junkyard. How would I cut them off with just hand tools? Thanks for the correct spelling and the link!

Originally Posted by matt7531

Its going to be a ***** to cut them off in the middle of a junkyard. How would I cut them off with just hand tools? Thanks for the correct spelling and the link!

Ask any junk yard gofor! I'd bet they know how to get them off!

[jim16671836]

I think you can drive a impact socket on the locking stud....I don't remember the size but I think it was a six point. I tried a 12 point first. Maybe someone can get you hooked up with Stu Ritter in Denver. He knows...I don't remember the size...I just kept trying them until I found one that worked...I was in my shop....I used the socker and a very short extension and a sledge hammer...good luck Jim

[matt7531]

Thanks, I'll try that. Any advice on whether a two inch wider tire on the rear wheels while keeping the stock width up front is a good idea on an 84 280 SL?

[RickM]

You should ask Luke on the wheel forum area on this site. He's the expert from Tire Rack.

A pic of the wheels and any markings/numbers will help in determining fit.