Knock-Off Wheel Cones

[David B.]

During judging of my '66 coupe at the Novi Regional last weekend, I was docked a couple of points because the cones on my original Kelsey Hayes wheels were determined to be repros. As I understand it: 1. the outside diameter of the repro cones is slightly smaller than originals, and, 2. repros may fit more flush with the underlying wheel around the outside border of the cone, whereas originals have a small gap.
Two questions for the knock off gurus: Is the above explanation of the differences accurate? Is anyone aware of a source for repro cones which are closer in configuration to the originals? Any advice/clarification will be greatly appreciated!

[Wayne M.]

Re: Knock-Off Wheel Cones

During judging of my '66 coupe at the Novi Regional last weekend, I was docked a couple of points because the cones on my original Kelsey Hayes wheels were determined to be repros. As I understand it: 1. the outside diameter of the repro cones is slightly smaller than originals, and, 2. repros may fit more flush with the underlying wheel around the outside border of the cone, whereas originals have a small gap.
Two questions for the knock off gurus: Is the above explanation of the differences accurate? Is anyone aware of a source for repro cones which are closer in configuration to the originals? Any advice/clarification will be greatly appreciated!

David -- I'm no KO guru, but here's comparison shots of a '66 original (first thumbnail), and a mid-80's (?) repro Western Wheel - KH.

AFAIK, the cones are still held on with original adhesive. IMO, can't see a heck of a lot of difference.

[Mike M.]

Re: Knock-Off Wheel Cones

Hi David, it was great seeing you and your car in Novi.
This will be tough to explain, but, here gores....
In addition to the details above, the easiest key for me at a glance is the rolled edge just uder the spinner.
If you notice in those two great examples above, the original is straight from the roll under the spinner, inward until it flares.
The repo has a pronounced rounded roll.
I hope this helps.
I'm sure there will be others jumping in.
HaND

[Gary S.]

Re: Knock-Off Wheel Cones

Found these at the Florida NCRS meet in 2007. I think both were reproductions but one was claimed to be NCRS correct. Even in these bad pictures I think you can see the difference in the roll on the top edge. Another issue with some repro's has been the length...some too short and thus ends not close enough to the fins. What do these mean...that maybe someone does have a correct repro. Unfortunately I did not get the vendor's name. Somebody must know for sure......Gary

[David B.]

Re: Knock-Off Wheel Cones

Wayne, Mike & Gary - Thanks for your responses and pictures. Mike, I see what you're saying about the rolled lip under the spinner-hadn't noticed that difference before.
Gary, sounds like there's someone out there making a more correct repop cone. Maybe someone else knows who the vendor is? Dave