Mark 2 spare issue

[martin8462003590]

I have just purchased a Mk 2 2.4 MOD.
It has had new wire wheels fitted but the spare is a conventional one.
Unfortunately,at the moment,I can't take a wheel off to examine the hub so am wondering whether to try to get another wire wheel (any supplier suggestions please,?) or whether I can unbolt it or remove the spline adapter and simply bolt the conventional one on if needs be.
Getting a few other jobs done as I think it needs a new clutch and the reverse detent is weak.Also no handbrake which is why I'm reluctant to jack it up on our 1:6 drive!
I must say the gear change is longer throw than many old lorries I have had. I got a converter for my Land Rover that markedly improved the movement and wondered if anyone made one for Jaguars.

[mike020150]

Congratulations on acquiring a Mk2. It is frustrating when someone sells a car with a mismatch of wheel types. If you have no intention of replacing the wires for standard steel wheels, and assuming the wires/hubs are in good condition, it would make sense to buy a spare wire wheel. Changing hub adaptors after a puncture is not a task to be undertaken on the side of a motorway! Wires come in different versions (painted, chromed, s/s, numbers of spokes, widths etc) so it would be best to purchase an equivalent wheel from the same supplier. Typically, you should be able to find manufacturer's marks on an existing wheel. After 60 years, the wheels could be originals or aftermarket items. 2.4 litre cars were often supplied with standard steel wheels from new but who knows? Plenty of wheels are available second hand, which could be a more economic route to investigate. Alternatively. MWS or SNG Barratt are sources for new items.
Early cars had a Moss gearbox (no synchro on first gear) and had a different lever throw and feeling from that of later cars fitted with Jaguar's own 4-speed synchro gearbox. Both were long throw boxes and I can't recall any kits to alter the change quality. Mike.