Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

What's the best reproduction chrome wire wheel to buy for a 50's Packard?

I have a set from Coker with wide-white tires mounted and center caps for my '49. Holding up well. Didn't cost all that much more than a reproduction set of large hubcaps and trip rings.

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Essentially the same era car as 'Tinman's'.

This is a '48 Deluxe Eight - 2262, with Coker wires, and Coker American Classic 7.60R15 wide white radials. Lots of bling and positive comments, but also a few comments about tires being low on air (radial bulge).

I've traded a bit of ride comfort for less 'flat tire' comments.
28 psi - Superior ride plus comments.
32 psi - A slight increase in ride harshness, but no comments
Even at 32 psi the ride is superior in every way to the bias ply tires that were on the car.

I've got about 6 years of experience with these wheels on a '54 Cavalier, and about 1.5 years on the units in the picture. I'm quite pleased and have had no problems. I was told in about 5 years these wheels will lose their 'tube-less' integrity and tubes will be needed.

The spokes are stainless steel and are pretty much immune to 'chrome flaking' caused by flexing of the wire.

dp

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I have the exact same wheels and tires as David, run at 34psi, very good ride.

Radial tires require higher pressures to compensate for the lack of sidewall bias.

Thus, unless bias ply tires are being used the Packard pressures should not be used.

Those higher pressures do increase stress on the rims, but if the wheels are not stock who cares?