George: I don't see where anyone said it "doesn't sound dangerous" nor imply it. I stated that the potential danger is in inflation after reassembly. The question was about deflation and disassembly.
What part of driving original old trucks isn't potentially dangerous? The part about driving without seat belts? Driving with drum brakes on the freeway? Driving with doors that do not have safety latches and frequently fly open without warning on a turn when the catch is worn? Or how about the part about driving on nylon tube tires and straight axle steering on grooved pavements?
There are few options for running "modern" 8 lug rims that will not only clear the tie rod ends but also accommodate the original hubcaps which I think you know since I see that you are a '53 3/4 ton owner. How did you resolve the original hubcap and tie rod end problems on your eight lug rims?
If you consider the facts, there are billions and billions of miles on millions and millions of split rims in service today. You are far more likely to be injured in your bathroom than by split rims...statistically speaking. So let me bounce your question back to you in this context: what part of dying in your bathroom do you think isn't dangerous? Did you stop using the bathroom? What options do you suggest as an alternative? Should we all follow the dog out to the yard every morning?
Telling Chicken Little that the sky is falling is not the answer.
The danger to the Crabby is extremely low based on his intended use (store them) and question (disassembly).
