Changing the tube on my new 1926 Touring car. With the wheel tool, I compressed the steel rim to get it out of the tire, repaired the tube and put in back in the tire. Went to expand the rim with the tool and can't get it to "stay" in the expanded position to mount on the wheel. It kept springing back (compressing). There are 4 each 3/8" holes(2 on each side) of the rim. Is there a keeper type bracket that fits into these holes when it is expanded to keep it there? If not, I will make 2 of them. Any clues or help? Thanks,
Jeff

I haven't worked with those modern rims, so I can't tell you much about them, but I can show you three ways they fasten together.







Go to Google and type in "search mtfca: split rims". You'll probably find lots of info.

Sounds like you have a canadian rim. They had a special tool for mounting and dismounting although I haven't seen one. I did manage to get mine together without it. Baby powder helped in getting it to close up. Sprinkle tons of it on the tire and tube. It also helps keep the tube and flap from sticking together.

Steve those rims look like the rims on my 24 Coupe.
What I mean by that is the hammering and pounding marks on the edges.
They are solid original rims but I am always on the look out for better ones.

Years ago when I didnt know any better I didnt know anything about a rim spreader and beat, pryed and whatever to get them in place. I since found some better original rims.

I now use a rim spreader and use a rubber faced tire tool if I have to move anything in place and that isnt often.

Don and others, thanks for the info. I believe my rims are Canadian as the rest of the car is. My wheels don't have any of the locking mechanisms shown in the pics. I will take a picture of my rim tonight and post it tomorrow, maybe somebody will recognize them and be able to provide additional tips. Thanks again! Jeff

Canadian split rims had a hinge & pin type of locking arrangement.

Elusive Kelsey rim tool. Paid $12 to a Model A guy who had no idea what it was.

The spreader should be turned around so that the two stationary legs are equally placed on each side of the split and the expanding leg opposite the split. Then after the rim is expanded, you fasten the catch to hold everything in place. Possibly, your rim is bent, because it should not collapse when you remove the spreader. Can you post a picture of your rim?
Norm

Here is a picture of one I picked up for a spare tire rim..it requires a pin to hold the rim in place.

Here is a pic of my rim. 1926 T made in Canada. Any help will be appreciated!

Jeff