Can someone give a definitive answer as to whether if you definitely have lock bead rims on a '59 f250 as indicated by a factory "split" visible on the ring, whether that means:

1) although they are split rings, they are then NOT split rims
​​​​​​2) because they are not split rims, they are not "widow makers" and therefore they are not dangerous

3) "dangerous" is qualified and a loaded word because any wheel, even a modern wheel, can be dangerous, but a widow maker is generally known to be extremely dangerous and should not be used under any circumstances and if the vehicle needs to be used at all the widow makers should be replaced
4) but although old lock beads could be dangerous they are generally only dangerous while changing rims or if damaged and damage would be from rocks or pits or curbs or the like or from improper mounting or damage while.mounting or dismounting handling and would indeed be visible
5) for light driving, back and forth to Home Depot 10 miles away on country roads there is virtually zero risk that the lock beads will be or become spontaneously "dangerous" even if there is a flat and for some reason someone continues to drive a mile slowly with said flat.

Any and all comments and opinions -- especially coming from experience or with expertise -- would be appreciated! 👍

Thank you!

-Cooter (D.o.H.)

 

There are too many ill defined terms that get mixed into this subject. So I’ll ask first whether your F-250 has 17” multi-part wheels or 16” multi-part wheels. The 17” ones are the Firestone RH-5° style that are the true widowmakers. Replace them. If you have 16” wheels there were Firestone RHP style outer rims on the OEM wheels. These have solid/unbroken side rings. These can be kept in service if there is no damage to a ring(s). The rings can be bent and weakened which will justify replacements. Third, over the life of a truck wheels can be replaced, so you may have side rings that are split. Generally these are Goodyear designs and can be kept in service if not bent or sprung.

One piece 16”, 17.5”, and 19.5” wheels were also options. Stu

 

Stu, thanks. You've helped me with my wheels before, including putting me in touch with with a contact and I'm very thankful to you. I must admit (readily) that I don't know how to identify my rims, their brand, etc. I am attaching a photo in the hope that someone can identify them. (I was pointing to the split ring for another purpose, so please ignore the green arrow in the photo.)

 

Those are fine to use. Split rings, but I don’t recognize them as whether Firestone or Goodyear. The manufacturer should have its name stamped inside on the base rim I’d think. Stu

 

Appears to be an early 70's lock ring bump wheel. If your into originality and want a solid wheel, look out for this 16" innie wheel, used of Ford and Dodge 3/4 tons mid 50's to mid 60's.