Knockoff Wheel Repairs

[Dave K.]

I was looking at a set of Western Wheel repro knockoff wheels for my 66. These wheels were just removed from a car. An inspection of the back side of two wheels shows wear and fretting around several of the mounting holes in each wheel. It appears that instead of the longer knockoff wheel nuts, the regular wheel lug nuts were used to tighten the adapter. The wheels came loose and caused the imprint of the nut into the aluminum. Inserting the wheel adapter into both wheels results in a tight fit but I would still want repairs performed to be sure there is enough wear surface area for the adapter lugs.

I was told that repairs can be made to this kind of damage? Looks like aluminum welding followed by boring to the adapter pin diameter, which appears to be about 5/8in.

Any other comments and has anyone had their repro wheels repaired, and if so, by whom?

Regards,
Dave K.

[William B.]

Re: Knockoff Wheel Repairs

Hi Dave,

I checked around for restoration on my origional gm knock offs, quite expensive but worth it on origionals. On your repos I would look for another set, probally cheaper in the long run. Bill

[Dave K.]

Re: Knockoff Wheel Repairs

I stand corrected -- no welding on the wheel hub or drive pin area -- repairs are by drilling oversize plug followed by reaming to correct pin dia. -- 5/8 in.

Dave K.

[Mike L.]

Re: Knockoff Wheel Repairs

Bill, could you post who restored your orig. wheel. I have a set that I'm looking for smoeone to do.