I feel like going back and deleting everything I just posted on this topic.
I had a nagging suspicion that the rims on RP14's truck are Kelsey-Hayes but I didn't know which model.
I now think they are WK-4. The information at the bottom came from Jim Carter's Website.
Click on Technical in the menu.
RP14, I would advise you to go to the
www.oldgmctrucks.com website and join up.
Post your question. You may get more accurate information.
There are more modern 1960's 8 lug rims that have hubcap clips for a 17" tire but I fear they may be expensive.
Also if you plan to do disc brake conversion on the front, the rim backspacing can be a problem for rotor clearance.
I mention this to help you in case you decide on purchasing new rims.
There were two types of split rims offered originally a 3/4 ton GMC; 15" TWO piece split rims (Kelsey-Hayes type WK-3), and optional 17" THREE piece split rims (Kelsey-Hayes type WK-4) The two piece split rim uses a lock ring that is fixed and is one solid piece. There's a notch in the rim where you can remove and reinstall the bead retainer ring while mounting and breaking down tires. To remove, you tip the ring at an angle and then slip it by the notch. To mount, do the opposite. This type DOES NOT require prying apart the ring and if you try to pry it off, you'll ruin ix The 17" split rims originally would have been the Kelsey-Hayes type WK-4 and are three pieces; the rim, the bead ring, and the lock ring. They are put together pretty much the same way they do now-a-days on big truck rims. The tire goes on the rim, then the ring slips on and then the third ring is "zipped" on/off using a sledge hammer and pry bar. The safety of these rims is directly dependent upon their overall condition. I have split rims on all three of my vintage GMCs. You will find knowledgeable truck tire places will work on them without hesitation and car tire places will go screaming in circles with their hair on fire spewing misinformation about "suicide" rims which may or may not be applicable, but does more to spook people than inform them with facts. I have many many miles on my original split rims and find them to be great for my purposes. Others may have different views of what works for them. See the illustration below to understand the three basic types of original stock rims you'll find on the old GMC trucks. View PDF Chart of 1947-1954 Split Rims
