C2 Knock Off's

[Robert C.]

Hi All, What is the best way to determine repro knock off wheels from original? I am trying to figure out if my 1965 (which I just bought) has "real" knock offs or repros. The inside surface is rough not machined like the judging manual says but, kelsey hays is not stamped anywhere on the wheel. Thanks Bob

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 Knock Off's

I have an early set of repros (late seventies, no safety pins) and they clearly have "Western Wheel" in the mold pattern. Later repros (eighties) may say "Western - KH' or something similar after Kelsey Hayes bought Western Wheel.

I believe original KOs had KH-XXXXX in the casting. I don't remember the actual numbers, thus the "XXXXX" as I've only viewed the backside of one bondafide OE KO in the last umpteen years.

Duke

[Dave B.]

Re: C2 Knock Off's

They should have KH D49985 followed by a date such as B 19 66 (for 66 wheels.)
Dave

[Tom H.]

Re: C2 Knock Off's

My wheels have a lozenge shaped casting with K-H over the number D-49985 and no other dating. The lozenge is maybe an inch or so long. The rim has a series of small round casting marks about an inch and one-half all around the vertical flat between the weight pocket and the turn in toward the hub. The rim has three angle breaks inside and the finish is rough turned with light machine marks that you can feel with a finger nail. These wheels are genuine and original to the car which was delivered to me new on January 19, 1965.