How can I tell if they are solid spokes or hollow spokes? Which are more desirable? thank you.
Chris

 

hollow have a seam on the back of the spoke, hollow are more desirable because they are lighter

 

....and hollow's have metal valve stems.

 

If you're unsure, let me know the part number from the back of the spokes. I can check them, verify fitment, etc.. Let me know, happy to help.

XLR is correct, the hollow spokes had metal valve stems. The hollow spokes were much lighter, and much more expensive than the Turbo-Look wheels.

 

See if this info can help you.
hollow spoke


non-hollow


Early 2001 996 Turbo
8x18 50mm Solid 996.362.136.01
11x18 45mm Solid 996.362.142.10

Late 2001 and after 996 Turbo
8x18 50mm Hollow 996.362.136.04
11x18 45mm Hollow 996.362.142.03 and 996.362.142.11

2005 996 Turbo S (darker silver wheels)
8x18 50mm Hollow 996.362.136.32
11x18 45mm Hollow 996.362.142.32

 

So does anyone know what the weight difference is between the front and rear rims hollow and solid? I have a 01 996TT that came with the solid spoke and was wondering if would be worth it to upgrade to the hollows ?

Thanks.

 

Here are my Turbo Techno II wheels that were an $1800 upgrade on my 2005 Turbo S Cab. I had the rears weighed when I replacedthe tires and they came in at at 19lbs. I have never taken off the fronts.

 

I'm quite surprised that those rear wheels were 19 pounds! I always thought those were about 22-23. That's really light!

 

Robertp - Did you notice an improvement in performance when you went with the upgrade?

I am still curious to know the weights of the factory hallow spoke vs solid Turbo wheels and if the upgrade would be worth the money for the improvement in performance if there is any ?

Thanks.

 

I purchased the car new with the upgraded rims so i do not know of any difference but I can say they are nice and unique. The car seems to handle well and is super fast.

 

That is also what I herd but when I had the rear tires replaced at 5000 miles we weighed them and they came in at 19lbs with a good cleaning. Now remember, I also have to run spacers that weight 2lbs with the bolts. If you want to shave off a pound at each tire you will need to get Titanium lug nuts.