Re: [Chrysler300] '55 Chrysler wire wheels

In addition to John’s expert comments, the original Chrysler MotorRim wheels used shorter spoke “nipples” than the repops do. As John point points out the shape/angle particularly on the short spokes are different resulting in slightly different attachment points to the felloe (outer rim portion) on the originals vs. the repops. I wonder if when designing the repops if someone determined that the new, modified spoke pattern is more durable than the original pattern, or if it simply was easier to manufacture. The spoke differences are rather subtle and would likely not be noticed by the casual observer. In addition to Imperial the 52 spoke wheels were also used on some of the upscale Chrysler and DeSoto wagons that had the Imperial suspension. That last bit of trivia came from a listserver posting in 2009 from former member and letter car guru Wayne Graefen, whose research is indisputable IMHO. Desoto used the Chrysler wires, while Dodge and Plymouth had a completely different style but also made by Motor Rim.

The links appear to indicate several possible manufacturers of the repop wheels but I’m only aware of True Spoke and Roadster. At least one of the links claims the repop wheels are of US origin. They all appear to have used the same “mold” however.

I was going to create a web page for the club site on the topic of Chrysler wire wheels and use photos to illustrate the differences between the original 5x4.5 Chrysler style, the 5x5.5 Imperial style, and the repops, but I haven’t gotten to that project yet. Correct, verifiable information regarding the original Motor Rim wheels is difficult to locate, and far more misinformation than truth has been propagated over the last 40 years.

Carl Bilter

From: John Lazenby

Sent: Thursday, February 06, 2014 3:32 PM

To: Jack Boyle ; chrysler300@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Subject: Re: [Chrysler300] '55 Chrysler wire wheels

Jack,

Yes, stainless spokes are the way to go. Keep the following in mind. Your C300 more than likely has a 4.5" bolt pattern. If so the original MotorRim wires were 48 spokes. To the best of my knowledge you will not find such in aftermarket "Chinese" wheels.

More than likely they will be 52 to 56 spokes. Imperial - T&C MotorRim wires were 52 spokes and wider than the 48 spoke version if I remember by .5" with a 5.5" bolt pattern.

Your last comment with the provided links was the clincher for me. The hubs on all aftermarket wheels are different in appearance than original MotorRim examples. I guess I've got the "eye" as I can easily spot them. and the shape-angle of the spokes are also different.

I didn't open each of the provided links BUT when I see "Kelsey Hayes Chrysler Wheels" I have to laugh as there was and is no such animal. Watch auctions and listings and this is a dead give away that who ever writes the comments up and beyond that the seller has no idea of accurate documentation.

Last, if factory wheels are sealed properly with silicone around the spoke area there are no issue with leaks. My '55 T&C MotorRim wires are such and they've been on the car for 8.5 years with no issues. All of my other cars with MotorRim wires have tubes and once again no issues.

Good luck with your purchase,

John Lazenby

On Thursday, February 6, 2014 1:14 PM, Jack Boyle <jackcboyle@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

Ok, I am ready to pull the pin on buying new/reproduction wheels for my C300.

I have been running; out of true, leaky, 65 year old wheels too long. Now I have discovered another broken spoke. I want new, shiny, straight, hassle free and tubeless wheels before I hit the road at 80 mph this spring. I appreciate all the offers for used wheels or repair sources but I have decided on new.

I received some recommendations for stainless spokes which seems prudent, I also want the spoke and hub style to be 100% factory equipment accurate. Here are the sources I have found. Any recommendations would be appreciated.

http://www.hobbycar.com/chrysler.html

http://www.cokertire.com/wheels/chrysler-wire.html

http://www.wheelvintiques.com/index.php/wheels/classic/chrysler-wire-76-series.html

http://www.cadillacworld.net/ChryslerKelseyHayesWheels.html

I can’t imagine that there are four manufacturers making these wheels. I suspect one or two at the most are the root sources of the modern product.

For those of you that are so fond of original wheels, I will have four 1955 wire wheels for sale soon. I removed them with my own hands from another C300 in New Mexico in the 70’s. See: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1072476941250&set=a.1072473981176.11609.1505965130&type=3&theater

Thank you for your feedback._

Jack Boyle

(913) 544 4650

Enjoying the same C-300 since 1967

_,_._,___