Packard compatible wheels

[cp_1247]

Maybe this should be in Drivetrain, but I just went with the closest subject. What are you driver guys doing for wheels? When I bought my 50 Standard Eight, it has one "correct" steel wheel, which looks like it either uses a full wheel disc, or a center cap with trim ring, while the other 3 are chevy rallye 1/2 ton truck/van rims. The bolt pattern is correct, but the center hole is too small. So all I do is roll it around, but I won't be driving it with them when I get it going. Now, keep in mind I am building a working functioning driver, not a restored pristine example. I have looked on ebay and only found 2 packard rims, and they were pitted and rusty for near 70 bucks each. I am wanting a center cap and trim ring set up, ideally. Is there a rim out there that's compatible that fits correctly? And I am open to the option of making plain steel chevys work, as the bolt pattern is right, but I'd have to use a plasma cutter or torch to make the center hole bigger. I don't mind going that route, but would rather see if there are options out there before I do. Thanks for any and all help! New to Packards and am excited to start my project this winter!

[Adam]

There do seem to be a few wheels around on e-bay. Perhaps you will need to shop around a little? Or contact the Packard parts specialists who may be able to help. Why not place a 'wanted' ad on this forum too?

If you plan to go with the full dish hub caps, then you really need the proper rims to mount them to. Generally, the old rims will sandblast and paint pretty well, unless they have very severe rust damage, or are bent.

[Dave Czirr]

Hollander's Interchange Manual should provide an answer. Unfortunately mine doesn't cover postwar cars. Hopefully some help will be forthcoming.

[cp_1247]

Any and all help is much appreciated! Please and thank you!