This discussion has been posted on the '48-60 forum a couple of times. Owners of larger trucks, F-4 through 6s or F-400 through F-600s, are always looking for solid rims to replace two piece rims because of the known or perceived dangers with them. There are rare rims out there that can be used in place of these rims but they are hard to find. I have heard suggestions about cutting out the centers of the original rims and welding them into newer, more available solid rims. This procedure seems like it would be very difficult for an amateur to do correctly and it would cost a small fortune to have six of them done by a pro. My idea would be to use a modern eight or six hole 19.5" or 20" rim, weld the holes shut and then drill the correct five hole pattern. My questions to the wheel experts are; Is this a good idea? If I do this will the metal in the rims be compromised? If I take my time and keep the metal as cool as possible as I go will I get metal fatigue and cracks later as I go down the road?

Thanks

 

Rims should not be welded or repaired unless done by a facility that is certified and insured for such work.
This for your safety as well as mine.

EDIT, It is illegal to have a welded repair wheel on a commercial vehicle. it would be red tagged, instantly.

 

To weld shut the bolt holes on the wheel, you're talking about filling ALOT of hole, and subjecting the wheel to alot of heat, over a long time. I would avoid doing that. Also, steel wheels are usually not flat at the bolt holes, the holes' edges are flared. That flare helps give it strength and resistance to warping and a larger surface for the conical lug nut to fit into. Maybe you could use some modern wheels on the original hubs by having the hubs re-drilled for the newer bolt pattern. A machine shop should be able to handle that.

 

I wouldn't really be afraid of the first idea (That's how steel rims are made in the first place), but I'd be scared of the second idea. Too much heat and no way to make "proper" bolt holes as mentioned above. A reputable machine shop should be able to do it for you, but no it won't be cheap. I spent $75 nearly 20 years ago getting this done to two wheels.

 

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Thanks for all of the replies. I just got this truck and do not plan on working on it until next year sometime but, I want to find ways to find parts for it before I begin. I am downloading a Stockton catalog today.

I have owned trucks this size before but, I just bought them for parts for my smaller trucks, I never had one I wanted to keep. The larger trucks pose a lot more issues, parts availability wise, than the smaller F-1 and 2s.

Again, thanks,

Bob