I purchased a 1928 Sedan and plan on a complete restoration. MY first challenge is the wheels. The rims are not in good shape, i.e., the split rims do not have the original catches that join the split together. I am thinking of just welding the splits together, since the tools are available to mount a tire on a complete rim. Does anyone know if that is a good idea or not?
I don't have any experience with antique style split rims but unless the rim has a drop center I don't think you'll be able to mount a tire if you weld it as you suggest. The wire in the bead will not stretch. The way newer rims get around this is to have a dropped area in the center of the rim where one part the bead can go as you pull the other side over the rim.
Thanks Todd. The rim does have about a 3/4 inch drop, so I'm thinking it should be ok welded together.
I hope I am understanding this. If you weld the split rim together you will not be able to install the tire. That's why the rim is split so it can be compressed with the split rim tool so that you can install the tire.
Good luck with your car, Chet
Obiron, If you are in need I have a couple of spare rims for wood wheels that I can part with. These are 19", check to see if yours aren't 20".