1st Gen R50 Cooper I just don't get wheel offset.

Discussion in '1st Generation: 2002–06 R50, R53 & 2004–08 R52' started by Different Computers, Jul 15, 2014.

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  1. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

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    Mac Guy
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    #1 Different Computers, Jul 15, 2014
    OK, I've read Wheel Offset Explained - Stop guessing and wondering

    I understand what wheel offset is. But I don't understand how I can tell if a given wheel will fit my R50.

    It seems like that's the missing piece--a given wheel can be designed a lot of different ways so that the tire ends up placed properly. So when I'm shopping for wheels, how do I know what fits?

    Sure, it's easy if I go to Tire Rack or somewhere similar, but I'm shopping used and looking for deals.

    Many thanks in advance for anyone who can help me get my head around this!
     
  2. Metalman

    Metalman Well-Known Member
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    #2 Metalman, Jul 15, 2014
  3. N2MINI

    N2MINI MINI of the Month

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    #3 N2MINI, Jul 15, 2014
    Nice Calculator. He just needs to know what he has to start with.. offset, etc.
     
  4. ScottinBend

    ScottinBend Space Cowboy
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    #4 ScottinBend, Jul 15, 2014
    The offset should be stamped on the wheel somewhere.......look for an ET##, this is the offset.
     
  5. Metalman

    Metalman Well-Known Member
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    #5 Metalman, Jul 15, 2014
  6. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

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    Mac Guy
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    #6 Different Computers, Jul 15, 2014
    AHA!

    Now THAT is the info I needed. I have factory wheels, but I'm pretty sure they're not the factory tires, maybe not even the factory tire size.

    Interestingly, http://www.allfactorywheels.com/ does NOT show the 15" holies as standard OEM Mini wheels.

    Thanks everyone!
     
  7. cct1

    cct1 Well-Known Member
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    #7 cct1, Jul 15, 2014
    If you throw out there what you're looking at, we may be able to help you--some rims come in only one, or very few ET's, so someone may have had what you're looking at on their car before.
     
  8. Different Computers

    Different Computers New Member

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    #8 Different Computers, Jul 15, 2014
    That makes sense. Unfortunately the problem is I am looking at Craigslist for wheels first, so they tend to be a lot of one offs and maybes that I'm just thinking about.

    But thanks!
     
  9. cct1

    cct1 Well-Known Member
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    #9 cct1, Jul 15, 2014
    Just be careful with Craigslist, that wonderful source of bent and cracked rims....

    You're safer getting rims off here or (I hate to say it) NAM. Not to say you can't find something good on Craigslist, but if you can see them before purchase, that would be ideal.
     
  10. Crashton

    Crashton Club Coordinator

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    #10 Crashton, Jul 15, 2014
    Keep in mind that your MINI likes a light wheel. Some oem MINI & aftermarket wheels are boat anchors.
     

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