I have a 1949 Chevy 3600 and am replacing the original 3 piece rims with standard steel rims. The original hubcaps are held on with 4 clips per wheel. The problem is that the part of the original hubcaps that engage the clips is ever so slightly larger than the interior diameter of “modern” steel rims. I want to use the original hubcaps, anyone had experience modifying the originals so they fit modern rims ? I ordered new clips so I could install the original caps on my new rims. I could order reproduction hubcaps that would snap on my new rims, but I am doing all I can to keep everything original. Thanks !
What wheels are you using? Im using 8 lug older ford wheels on mine. I run original hubcaps. My only fit issue was the depth of the clips. My hubcap snapped on ok but it seemed that the “bell” part of the wheel wasn’t tall enough so i had a bit if slop. My easy fix was to just quick tig weld 3 5/16 nuts to the backside lip of the hubcap. Works perfect and has been on for 1000’s of miles so far.
This is where my clips are located. I dont have a pic of the nuts I welded on for shims but you could use anything.
Thanks for responding. I ordered standard 8 lug steel rims modified to 3.5 inch backspace as more standard steel rims have a 4 inch backspace which interferes with the tie rods. I see how you fixed your issue, a very cool idea.
My original three piece rims have a steeper edge in the bell part of the rim than standard modern steel rims which have a shallower angle so the inside rim of the hubcap that engages with the clips can’t fully seat. It’s difficult to describe I’m not sure I’m creating a clear picture. The fix I intend to try is to make four cuts (slices) on the inside rim of the hubcap with an angle grinder at the 12, 3, 6 and 9 position, which hopefully will allow the interior edge of the hubcap to “shrink” enough to properly seat.
Btw, It looks like you simply bolted the clips to the steel rim? Is that a bolt and a nut or a self tapping bolt?
