There has to be an easier way. I installed the hub and attempted to put the dust cap on. It must be made oversize and the first one got all bent out of shape. Threw that one away and tried again. I even went to Menards and got a cap for a 2 inch pipe - thought that might help to install it evenly. No go. Are the hubs just that much smaller or are the caps made a bit too large? Advice requested.
I also tried to install the caps on the wheels. They are a very loose fit and they rattle around. Do you put them on and then tighten them up from the inside of the wheel?
Thank you for your help.
Dave, you must install the wire wheel hubcaps onto the wheels before you mount the wheels. I bend over every other tab to save the others for the future. Then I use a 2" piece of black foam rubber pipe insulation stuffed behind the hubcap. A balled up piece of foam rubber should work, also. That prevents the rattles.
Dave, I'm wondering if your dust caps are made to Ford specs or if someone sold you Model A's or something else? My 50 year old dust caps fit under my 50 year old hub caps with no clearance issues.
The dust caps came from langs. They just seem a bit too large to fit the hubs and only go on about half way.
Repro dust caps have been lousy fits for years. Best bet is to find old originals at any swap meet. The old original hubcaps are much heavier nickle plated material with fewer bend tabs. Once bent they don't move. Repo caps typically are chrome plated, have many bend tabs and are as thin as tissue paper. The foam is a good idea.
Hi Dave. I experienced the same problem with the reproduction dust caps. I just cut four slots (1/4") in the circumference with a hack saw and pounded them in with a rubber mallet. Worked like a charm.
Who am I ? I´m one of the new guys sitting quiet in the back bench. Taking notes. Learning a lot from you people on this wonderful forum. By the way , I am the lucky owner of a 26 roadster.
Thanks
Mange Tak, Rolf. That should do it. I will also try Jim's advice on the hubcaps.
Rolf, that worked perfectly. Thank you again.
Welcome Rolf, Now don't be a stranger here, ask and you will receive.
Bob
good fix for the dust caps, have not had that happen yet. The wire wheel hub caps I have had great luck running a fine bead of black silicone sealant around the shoulder then install as above by only bending every third tab over. Finish by wiping off any squeeze out and let it cure. Can't see it and they never rattle or come loose but can be removed if need be.
Thanks guys. Your warm welcome makes me feel right at home. I´ll not hesitate to ask . So far I have found all i need with the search engine.
Bob , I really love your snowmobiles. That would be the appropriate vehicle here in Scandinavia in the winter season.