I have most of the Chassis reassembled and I'm looking to get the rims/tires.

There's a set I really like: 18x8 Silver Wheel Niche Essen (M146) 5x4.5 40 with one example here: http://www.ebay.com/itm/18x8-Silver-Wheel-Niche-Essen-M146-5x4-5-40-/121768128359?hash=item1c59f22f67&vxp=mtr
When I put the specs in mid-50's site (Rear Wheel Clearance Calculator - Mid Fifty F-100 Parts) it looks like it would fit on the rear with a and or two of back spacing.

I have two questions:

1) I'm not making any mistakes with the rear, right? 1 - 2 inches (2 inch backspacers exist and are safe?) of backspacing will work
2) Will these work on the front?

I know the Cragars will work, but I'm a huge fan of the spoke like rims.

 

Your 1954 F100 has 5 lug wheels on a 5.50" bolt circle. These Niche Essen wheels will not fit as they are 5 lug w/a 4.50" bolt circle.

 

He has that custom chassis with the Kugel rear with a 5x4.5 bolt circle

 

Joe (harleymsn) is correct - about the only thing original about my chassis is that the mount holes align with the original body - it's a TCI custom chassis. The front-end is a mustang II with 5x4.5 and the rear-end is a Kugel with 5x4.5.

Any thoughts on using these rims (or something similar)?

 

As most of us on the forum are more stock (or somewhat stock) natured, you are likely the only one here with your exact combination, and therefore in uncharted waters compared to us stock-chassied guys. You're probably on your own to do the measurements and calculations to get the correct fit. I'd recommend waiting until the very last to order wheels, as you'll want fenders over the hubs to know your correct wheel width/offset. It's a lot of money out if you miss it by a half inch.

 

I like the wheels you've chosen!

When I was trying to choose wheels, it was pretty stressful, I know how you feel. I just used a yard stick and tape measure to figure what would fit inside the fenders and clear any suspension/steering. It was easier with everything put together. I bought the rear set first (7" wide) because I wasn't sure if they would fit on the front. I ended up going 6" in front, so I am glad that I didn't buy all four at the same time.