Chrome wire wheels represent the most visually striking wheel option available, combining the elegance of spoked construction with a deep mirror finish that catches the light in a way no other wheel type achieves. The chrome plating process covers the full spoke, nipple, and rim assembly, providing both a brilliant finish and additional corrosion protection. Chrome-plated wire wheels became generally available in October 1965 and continued to be offered until June 1971. All wire wheels supplied are of an improved tubeless design, requiring no inner tubes or rim bands.
Sizes and Fitment
The original 60-spoke 4.5x14-inch centre lock chrome wire wheel is the correct factory option size for UK MGB cars, providing an authentic period appearance for concours and road use alike. The uprated 5.5x14-inch centre lock chrome wire wheel offers a wider rim in the same 14-inch diameter for owners wanting a broader tyre footprint without changing to a 15-inch fitment. The 72-spoke 5.5x15-inch centre lock chrome wire wheel provides the maximum spoke count and rim width available. On the MGC, chrome wire wheels use the 15-inch 5J rim specification and octagonal knock-off nuts as a direct fit to the existing hub and brake assembly, and were available as a factory option throughout MGC production.
Care and Maintenance
Chrome wire wheels demand more attention than painted wheels to maintain their appearance. The chrome surface is vulnerable to pitting from road salt, brake dust, and moisture trapped around the spoke nipples, and once pitting begins it progresses rapidly and cannot be reversed without rechroming the entire wheel. Regular cleaning with a dedicated wheel cleaner and a spoke brush, followed by a protective coating, will preserve the finish for years. After wet-weather driving, the wheels should be washed and dried promptly to prevent salt and moisture sitting on the chrome surface.
Correct balancing of all wire wheels requires wire wheel balancing cones, and spinner thread pitch and handedness must be confirmed before ordering spinners to match any new wire wheel fitment.