C1: Black is the new Black

[Dave Freeman (42255)]

OK, I was trying to avoid asking another question on the forum, but I can't find the answer.

My '59 has the wide wheels painted white, and now I'm trying to bring them back to their original state. I've read through books and articles about wide wheels for 1959 and most agree they should be black. No one mentions the finish or actual color though.

What type of black did Kelsey Hayes use? Satin? gloss? I assume not flat. Did the factory spray a different GM type of black on the face of the wheel?

Anyone have any code numbers or reference for the proper black? My spare is black and I can go off that, but I have no idea if it's in it's orginal state or if it has been repainted at some point.

Thanks.

-Dave

[Greg Simon (26438)]

Re: C1: Black is the new Black

I believe all wide wheels 58-62 were painted body color with dog dish hubcaps. Even 58-60 standard wheels were body color. 61-62 standard wheels were painted black

[Dave Freeman (42255)]

Re: C1: Black is the new Black

Greg,

Where did you get that info? That goes against everything I've seen and read, including the NCRS judging guides, and Noland Adams books.

-Dave

[Dave Strickland (21448)]

Re: C1: Black is the new Black

Dave,
All 59 5 inch wheels were painted black and as far as I know the wide base wheels would be black as well. Acrylic enamel was used on the outside of the wheels and it would leave a glossy finish. The entire inside of the wheel would be semi gloss black. Acrylic enamel overspray will find its way to the inside of the wheel through the notches between the inner and outer wheel.

[Gene Bygd (17667)]

Re: C1: Black is the new Black

58 wheel were NOT black. They were all silver. The back side of the wheel was semi gloss black and the silver was painted showing the overspray through the slots on the back of the wheel. The slots had a rubber tubing pressed into the slots to keep rocks from getting in between the wheel and the wheel cover.

There are differences in opinion on whether the silver was gloss or semi-gloss. I was docked points at a regional for the silver not being glossy. However I don't believe this judge was that knowledgeable.

[Greg Simon (26438)]

Re: C1: Black is the new Black

From memory which is dangerous. My comfort zone is 61-62. I stand corrected.

[Dave Strickland (21448)]

Is this a 58 or 59?????? *NM*

[Dave Freeman (42255)]

Re: Is this a 58 or 59??????

It is a '59.

-Dave