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Date:         Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:36:51 -0700
Reply-To:     Al Knoll <anasasi@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Al Knoll <anasasi@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Wheel strength , cast vs forged, TUV
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

Lots of opinion here: http://www.hrewheels.com/blog/tech-talk/cast-wheels-vs-forged-wheels/ and here: http://www.hrewheels.com/blog/tech-talk/rotational-inertias-effect-on-performance/

For those wheel nuts among us who dabble in strength of materials and metallurgy and occasionally step into the mire of machine design, the above references give a peek into pandoras box.

Many of us run our escape pods on the edge or beyond the edge of the design limits. Doing so with some knowledge of the possible outcomes allows us to get away with such flagant excursions most of the time.

Vertical mass distribution and its effects on sideloading of your tires and wheels is a handy concept to ponder. Our road divas are no longer tall and willowy, they now sport artificial enhancements like roof racks, kayaks, ski boxes, extra gas, and excessive firewood, placed well above the nipple line. (a term of art implying that the the location is above chest high on the observer). Driving style concessions, and upgrading safety features (suspension and brakes) may convince the dieties of disaster to glance the other way for a while. Ed in Ft. Bragg CA who designed the justly famous adventurewagen was aware of the tradeoffs.

Far be it from me to dictate others fashion statements regarding wheels, but we should evaluate the possible unintended consequences beforehand.

The German authorities rate various wheels for their load carrying capacities, I don't know if they are bound in the specification to a particular vehicle (T3,Venango, AUDI 5000tq, Urq Coupe Quatttro...) all of which came factory-fitted with 5x112 15" aluminum alloy wheels at some point in their production. Ronal and Fuchs were two of the manufacturers whose wheels bear the vw-AUDI marks. Do the 20sp 15" 5000tq wheels meet Venango T3 specifications? Only the wise DOKA knows for sure or even for maybe.

Some worship the diva as a fading virgin inviolate, with all genuine parts, some ride her hard and put her away wet and regale us with their adventures. Myself, I amuse the fish, snap pictures, poppywatch, pursue the elusive boletii korkwoodii, and stargaze in places far from AAA and pavement. My road diva is an overweight, boxy, charolais, who serves as home for vagrants.

Pensionerd


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