Rally wheels
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 169
Likes: 10
Rally wheels
I am trying to put together a nice set of mint rally wheels for a 1970.
What are the differences in quality/price of the rings?
I assume weight, and stainless, get what you pay for?
Which ones can be polished if minor marks on them?
price?
Best value for the $$?
Same questions for the centre caps
cheap ones are plastic?
What are the differences in quality/price of the rings?
I assume weight, and stainless, get what you pay for?
Which ones can be polished if minor marks on them?
price?
Best value for the $$?
Same questions for the centre caps
cheap ones are plastic?
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,221
Likes: 4,312
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi R,
The original rings were flash chromed stainless steel with 4 clips, one of which was lined up with the valve stem hole. They were only available at St.Louis.
Over the counter Chevrolet rings of the period were similar except for the placement of the 4 clips. Some are still being sold.
There are now reproduction flash chromed ss rings that are very similar to the Chevrolet over the counter rings.
There are now rings that have a series of prongs around their circumference like a hubcap has.
If you visit a site like Corvette Central, ZIP, or Paragon, you'll see the various rings available and their prices. Look carefully at their descriptions to determine just what they are.
Be aware that the original ring had a 'step' it where the flat outer rim turns toward the hub. Avoid them if you want the original appearance
None of them are exactly like the St.Louis rings but do make a very good exterior appearance.
The center caps are more available at various prices.
Look out for metal caps that don't have the Chevrolet wording around their center, and also beware of plastic center caps.
The various rings and their configuration matters to very few people. Most just want a nice looking ring and aren't concerned with what's on the rear side.
Figure out what you really want and what price you're willing to pay.
Regards,
Alan
The original rings were flash chromed stainless steel with 4 clips, one of which was lined up with the valve stem hole. They were only available at St.Louis.
Over the counter Chevrolet rings of the period were similar except for the placement of the 4 clips. Some are still being sold.
There are now reproduction flash chromed ss rings that are very similar to the Chevrolet over the counter rings.
There are now rings that have a series of prongs around their circumference like a hubcap has.
If you visit a site like Corvette Central, ZIP, or Paragon, you'll see the various rings available and their prices. Look carefully at their descriptions to determine just what they are.
Be aware that the original ring had a 'step' it where the flat outer rim turns toward the hub. Avoid them if you want the original appearance
None of them are exactly like the St.Louis rings but do make a very good exterior appearance.
The center caps are more available at various prices.
Look out for metal caps that don't have the Chevrolet wording around their center, and also beware of plastic center caps.
The various rings and their configuration matters to very few people. Most just want a nice looking ring and aren't concerned with what's on the rear side.
Figure out what you really want and what price you're willing to pay.
Regards,
Alan
Last edited by Alan 71; Jul 25, 2016 at 05:09 PM.
