To remove/install knock offs:

[Randy Adams]

Are polyurethane no-bounce hammers any good or would they leave unremovable scuffs on the spinners. My problem is the lead hammer is coming apart after about two wheels and the hammers are too over priced to destroy. Maybe I'm trying to get the wheels on too tight but I hear stories about being passed by your own wheels. What do you think?

[Mike M.]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

3 to 5 # LEATHER-Faced hammer is what i use. the leather faces or heads of the hammer are thin strips of rawhide wrapped tightly then inserted in the metal portion of the hammer head. leather cups are replacable but i've been using the same one for 20+ years on the nine c-2's equipped with K/O's we own. mike.

[John H.]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

The Halibrands on my Grand Sport had longer ears to wail on, but I used a 4# plastic-coated shot-filled dead-blow hammer (about fifteen bucks from Harbor Freight), and it worked fine - never had one loosen, and I drove it hard.

If you prefer a lead hammer that doesn't mushroom into uselessness every time you use it, the best one made is from Imperial Hammer in Rockford, Illinois (800-981-9400); has a steel shank, lead handle and head, and when you finally kill it, you send it back to Imperial and they'll re-cast it for you.

[Randy Adams]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

Well that's three to chose from....is the rubber dead-blow hammer any better or worse on scuffing? I once again say thanks for the info.
Randy

[Peter M.]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

Randy
I use the KO wrench from Dennis Portka. It fits securely over the spinner and allows you to use a lead hammer or any similar heavy hammer without risk of damage to the spinner. It allows you to apply the correct torque for a secure spinner every time.

[Stephen P.]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

Randy,

I tried one of the Harbour Freight dead blow hammers recently. The plasic cover came apart trying to get the spinner off. It could be that it was on too tight or I got a bad hammer. I've also got one of the trick KO wrenches that was included when I bought my car. I'm haven't found it easy to use. I've found the lead hammer works best and would definitely want one in my car if I had a problem out on the road.

[Mike Yager]

Re: To remove/install knock offs:

Randy:

I have tried to Dead Blow from Harbor Freight. I also bought the lead hammer that John recommends. I have found this lead hammer to be the best out there. Its worth the investment. I did a test where I tightened a wheel using the dead blow and then used the imperial hammer. The imperial hammer did tighten the spinner a little more (about a quarter inch) than the dead blow and you can't have these wheels too tight! I have not had a problem with wheel coming loose.