MTFCA Forum

Is there an easy way to form/spread the tabs on '26-'27 wire wheel repro hubcaps? They fit too loosely right out of the wrapper. I need to spread the tabs and was hoping there's a better way than just mind numbingly bending tabs individually one at a time. Is there anything that is correct size I can press the hubcap over to spread the tabs????

I believe you need to remove each wheel and insert the hupcap into the wheel, then use any handy tool to reach inside the hub bend 4 of the tabs outward to secure the cap. Hold the cap firmly against the wheel from the outer side and press the tabs back. It is not necessary to bend all the tabs back. Just bend 4 of them back, at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. The unused tabs can be used later if you need to remove and replace the cap for any reason. A length of 1/2 " wooden dowel makes a good tool, but any similar item will work.

Get the 4-6 tabs tight as possible. Its real hard to get them tight enough to not rattle. I like to add some ultra black from the inside to keep them from rattling. I have seen some guys wrap a bit of fishing line around the outside between the wheel & underside of the cap lip to eliminate the loose rattle.

Ok. Thanks. Never thought about pulling wheels off.
I think I was fixated on how loud the car would be going down the road with rattling hub caps.... hideous for sure!! Lol!!!!

Once I have bent over 4-6 tabs I also add a drop of window caulk at the bent over tabs so they do not rattle.

I did a kinda period correct fix on mine. I had some mason jar rubbers that I cut the tabs off of and glued to the inside of the hub opening then installed the caps bending four or six of the tabs over into the rubber, been a year now and so far no rattles. Jim

I like to position the spare tire on the carrier with the valve stem up. This way rain will not get into the rim through the valve stem. So I place he caps to be read when the wheel is in that position. I haven't used anything to seal the caps on the wheel. Just insert and bend a few of the tabs.
Norm

Got 'em all installed. Used ultra black and a long brass rod.
Thanks again

With the wheel off, bend 4 or 5 tabs. Then use a rubber o-ring around the hubcap from the visible side. They won't rattle. The wheels on our Fordor are black, and the o-rings are almost invisible.

I have been considering putting o-rings on mine. Glad to hear that it does work!

Inspected the caps today. All are tight and not turning due to the RTV goo that was applied during install. I should be fine now.