SharkWerks Weight Reduction Program with HRE's new R40 Monoblok Wheels
 

The SharkWerks gang has always been keen on weight savings and not just adding power. Hence, if you're going to change wheels we always think it's fine it they "look nice" but we've always wanted something that's forged, strong and yet lighter than what you're taking off. (Less is more in terms of unsprung weight and rotational inertia for optimal acceleration, handling and braking performance). Designed specifically for track and street applications we've partnered with HRE to outfit our 3.9L 996GT3 project with their new 18 inch R40 one-piece forged (using 6061-T6 forged aluminum) wheels in crazy blue (a la GT3RS in Ze Europe). The R40 is available in 18” diameter and widths ranging from 8.5” – 12” in Multi-lug and Center Lock versions (soon-ish). Note the rattle-gun friendly open dish shape for fast wheel changes! The R40 wheel was derived from and used on race cars that won the 2010 Grand-Am GS Championship.

Let's start off with the factory 996GT3 wheels (also pleasing on the eye) which on the 996GT3 were considered somewhat "light". The stock rears with stock 295/30/18 Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires mounted are 56.5 pounds:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_10.JPG

After the tire is removed the wheel itself comes in at 28.5 (not too shabby):
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_15.JPG

And over to the fronts with the stock tires mounted (48 pounds):
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_11.JPG

No doubt these aren't the lightest tire but here's the front wheel with the tire off (25.2 pounds):
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_13.JPG

Here's the front 18x8.5 HRE wheel weighing in at 18.3 pounds:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_02.JPG

And now mounted with the same stock tire (40.5 pounds):
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_20.JPG

Over to the rear 11 inch wheel coming in at 20.2 pounds:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_09.JPG

And with the tire installed it comes in at 47 pounds (check the machining on the inside of the spokes):
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_17.JPG

What we have here folks is a pretty neat weight cut of 8.3 pounds per corner in the rear and 6.9 pounds per corner in the front. That's a total of 30.4 pounds. It all starts to add up with the 54 pounds taken off of the rear, the light-weight seats, battery, brakes etc... With the wheels themselves being comparable in price to a new set of these factory GT3 wheels lighter is the way we're going:)

Rear wheels installed:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_26.JPG

Front wheels installed. And yes we've got the 8-piston Brembo GTR brake kit to fit with plenty of room to spare. For those of you with PCCB's 18s is not an issue:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_27.JPG

On her way home:
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_28.JPG
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_30.JPG
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_32.JPG
http://www.tweak3d.net/forum_photos/...e_Wheel_22.JPG

Nice weight savings! and great color!!

Thanks pal! And I'll Email you monday and send someone your way who's looking for a 2010....

thanks, would be greatly appreciated.

Do they fit a 997 Turbo? Any feedback?

I might need a ride in that beast to confirm weight savings. They look good!

Absolutely! Would be neat to see what you think:) She spins the wheels very well indeed. I can confirm that:o
yes they do.. we can size them anyway you like providing they're 18s.

Roger that sir!
Thank you!

Can you please pm pricing on the exact same setup? (996 GT3)

Right back at ya...

Did you guys finish tuning the 996? And how does it fare vs Kermit in the end?

Nice wheels!

Fabulous.

Sexy looking wheels, reminicent of the 996 RS from the UK.

Also, loving the vanity plate " NO PSM"

:D

Turned out great!

Jason

Yes sir we did... and check here for more:
http://sharkwerks.com/porsche/996-ca...3-project.html

She had about the same torque and 430+ rwhp but doesn't rev quite as high.

Glad you like 'em... I should use the stock ones for weight lifting:P

Thanks!

Hehe thanks mate... I'm from the UK myself so I was mad we didn't get the RS over here;)

Good catch on the plate my friend!

Thanks Jason.. it doesn't end here either.... Some very trick suspension stuff is coming!