View Full Version : Hubcap/Wheel Restoration


Uncle Tupelo
Apr 26th, 05, 07:23 AM
I have the original 14 inch wheels and hubcaps for my car.

I would like to refurbish them and put some date correct tires on them in case I ever wanted to show the car as it rolled out of the factory.

Here are my questions:
1.) Is there anyone that refinishes hubcaps back to their original condition?
2.) I would like to paint the wheels the same color as the car so that the wheel edges show the paint color....but wouldn't the paint get scratched when you put the tires on? Also, is that the way it should be , Painted I mean?
3.) What tires do y'all think would be the best looking to put on there...redlines, wide oval, whitewalls, or just black wall tires?

Everett#2390
Apr 26th, 05, 10:40 AM
Here are my answers:
1.) I would check www.hemmings.com for local vendors and/or those suiting your needs.
2.) Paint will get scratched. But, its up to the attention of the tire installer. If they use the rim type changer, there is a teflon tip to slide on the end to protect the paint. If they use the rimless type, the machine clamps the wheel on the back side, then no scratches will appear. BUT, the cleats of the clamps will punch holes in the paint on the back side of the wheel. A good technician will cover up the cleats with shop rags to protect the wheel.
3.) Redlines were popular and so was "WIDE OVAL' I'd go with redlines.

Hopefully, others will indulge their knowledge.

68SSCamaroinKS
Apr 26th, 05, 12:36 PM
I cannot help but thought I would post that I did a search for hub cap restoration as well and came up empty, including Hemmings.

I just bought some SS hub caps and will have them in a couple of days. I plan on taking them around to some folks I know and seeing what the consensus is. I will post what I find.