I have a 1948 F-5. The truck is in very good condition, however the time has come to replace all six tires. Unfortunately, I have the, original split rims which I know nobdy will touch anymore. Does anyone know where I might purchase some new wheels that look like the originals but are modern design? Not sure where to turn.

Thanks!

 

First, welcome to the board.

This topic has been discussed numerous times. You can do a search of the site and you will find many, many posts. Since you're a new member you won't be able to use the site search, you need at least 25 posts. It's better if you use Google any ways, just use the words "Widow maker" and "truckdog", you'll find more than you need.

Click on this link to see how to use Google:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...ml#post7429325

 

I'll add my welcome. First thing, if you haven't read it already, please look at this current thread.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...-4-dually.html

Then, to help you avoid having to do a lot of searching, here are a few other threads on the subject that I've archived. If you have additional questions, please come back and ask. Stu

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...dd-wheels.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...dowmakers.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...ck-wheels.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/7...xperience.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...tern-rims.html
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...8-f-135-a.html

 

Welcome to FTE, The two guys above can answer just about any question you can come up with concerning these bonus built trucks! I have asked; thats how I know they know!
where are you located? when you get time update your user profile and specify your location so we can help you find parts that may be near you. also add some pictures of your truck to your gallery. I still have lots of work to do on my F-6
Cheers
Josh

 

Thanks so much for the wonderful direction. I have spent a little time looking around on the links - very helpful. While have had other older vehicles, this is my first old truck so searching for parts is new for me. It sounds like the best option is to place some ads for alternative wheels since nobody is manufacturing anything new at the moment? How about tires?

Geoff

 

Thanks for the reply. From the little searching around on those links, it looks like there is plenty of information out there on the dangers of these wheels. Wish there was a simple alternative. I am in the Portland Maine area and very new to older trucks. I will get some pictures up when I get a chance. Nice to know there are others out there who can provide assitance.

Thanks again.

Geoff

 

Thank you so much for the links. I haven't done any searching yet, however since I am new to collecting trucks, I am still trying to figure out where information is and what are the better options for finding parts and services.

Thank you again.

Geoff

 

For parts and service in the northeast I'd suggest Job Lot Automotive in Queens, NY, for big truck parts (JobLot Automotive) or Chuck Mantiglia at Chuck's Trucks in Hamden, CT (Chucks Trucks LLC., Chuck's Trucks, Chucks Trucks). Job Lot is parts only while Chuck does repair/restoration as well as new and used parts. Chuck may even have wheels. I know he keeps his eyes open for them.

Tires obviously will depend on what wheels you find. Universal Tire is a good source for tube type 20" (Universal Vintage Tire). Probably 19.5s and 22.5s can be found locally without too much trouble. You'll want to be sure to buy tires that are the correct width for the wheels you find as well. Also, I think I said it in one of the links, but if you find 22.5s I'd avoid the early narrow ones that are 5.25" wide. Tires to fit them are NLA. Stu

 

I had heard of Chuck's Trucks. Job Lot Automotive looks like a good resource as well. Part of the fun of owning an old vehicle is working on it. However, I don't want to be driving something hazardous...