'65 Steel Wheel

[P Drappo]

I'm trying to find out if the steel wheel I have for my spare is the original. The markings on the inside of the wheel are: Kelsey Hayes Made in USA, 15X51/2JK (with an "8" and a "5" stamped just under) and an odd squashed circle with a couple of dividing arcs containing an "8" inside. What do you think

[Tom B.]

Re: '65 Steel Wheel

P Drappo,

At the least, it would be a keeper. If it would be "the" original spare rim to your car would probably depend upon your car's build date. I can't exactly remember how all the 15x51/2JK steel wheels were date stamped, but I'm fairly certain the "8" and the "5" represent August 1965. TBarr #24014

[Pete Lindahl]

Re: '65 Steel Wheel

I agree with Tom. One other identifying mark I'd expect to see is "GM" stamped on one of the raised "spokes" between the lug nut holes, but sometimes the stamping is very faint and might not be readily apparent. Pete