Re: IML: Wheel Rims

In a message dated 18/09/2004 08:51:28 GMT Standard Time, ChiPieAlandPaula@xxxxxxx writes:

Hello All,
I need some information from the "Mechanical gurus" in the club. I have a 64 Imperial. I recently had a set of 4 235x75x15 WSW radials installed. One of the tires that I replaced had an inner tube! The tire shop told me that the three other rims seem to be of the tubeless type. They based this on the fact that these tires all held air without inner tubes. To make a long story short, the forth rim is either bent or cracked. The tire will not hold air for more than three days. I told the tire shop to find a replacement rim. Of course, this is rather difficult in Montana. My questions are as follows: are these indeed tubeless rims? Is there a modern replacement for this rim? I am thinking of truck rims? If this is not feasible, who can I turn to for an original ?
Allan from Billings, Montana

Alan,

Are you sure the problem is at the rim? Have you dipped the wheel and tyre in a bath to see where the air is leaking?

There is a tendancy for these old wheels to leak from the joints where the the two halves were pressed together. I know because I have just dealt with the same problem. There is no need to replace the wheel unless it is bent. A good welder can weld the joints where they leak for a few dollars.To maintain good balance it is best to have the entire joint welded all round the wheel.

Best wishes,

Tony V.