Wheels & Tires
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Posted: December 26 2007 08:50 PM
 
John Kaisermann (aka 27ratrod) [ View ] [ jkaisermann@centurytel.net ] [ Car Ads ] [ Blogs ]
Warrens, Wisconsin
(608) 378-3161
 Papa John
 
My friend is helping his son build a Model 'A' Phone booth pick up. They were planning on running 1940's Ford 16" wheels with Radial tires. I said, I thought that was a bad idea because I had read it was unsafe to run that combo. When my friend asked "Why". I was not able to give an intelligent Answer. I think I read it has to do with wide wall pressure that the old wheel not designed for. Can you all help me out. How big a risk are they taking running radials on old wheels?
 
 
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Posted by 27ratrod  -  12/26/2007 09:22 PM
I could learn to spell. I should have said, 'Side wall pressure'.
Papa John [ View ] [ Email ] [ Blogs ] [ Car Ads ] Warrens, Wisconsin
 
Posted by ronhotrod  -  12/26/2007 09:25 PM
As far as I understand the biggest problem is with the construction of the wheel. Older wheels were mostly 'riveted' together. years of wear and tear can deteriate the connection. They were meant for tube type tires. But a 'good' solid set wheels that have been properly cleaned, inspected, and posibly welded for safety and sealing should perform without problems on a street rod. Of course you have the option of purchasing new 16" steelies from the aftermarket.
ronhotrod [ View ] [ Email ] [ Blogs ] [ Car Ads ] Mount washington, Kentucky Charter Member since July 2001
 
Posted by 31tudor  -  12/27/2007 04:34 PM
Ron's on the right track. Originally the hoop and the center were typically riveted together. The term "reversed wheel" comes from the process of knocking all but two of the rivets out (on opposing sides), turning the center 180 degrees within the hoop and welding up the empty holes. Like Ron said, they were designed to run a tube because rivets aren't well known for being airtight.


To answer your question, I wouldn't use original wheels for a driver. Simply not strong enough IMHO to put up with the stresses of modern day driving, like cornering. Buy some aftermarket wheels from Wheel Vintiques in your desired size, width, bolt pattern and backspace and you'll be much more pleased with the outcome.
Eric Hibbs [ View ] [ Email ] [ Blogs ] [ Car Ads ] St. George, Utah Charter Member since January 2002
 
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