Need help with a set of Kelsey Hayes knock off wheels

[Martin T.]

Are there differences (other than the color of the fins) on a set of early 1964 KH knock off wheels vs. a early set of 1965 KH knock off wheels. If the wheel fins are refinished in 65 fin color would they be indistinguishable from original 65 wheels? Is the darker finish on 1965 wheel fins something that can be added easily?

There appears to be a number of 03 stamped on a single fin of each of the wheels. Does this mean the wheels are from the same car? Is this stamping something that would not appear in 1965?

Two of the wheels are supposedly damaged on the inside due to improper mounting. Seller says it is not visible from the outside and should not affect the performance of the wheels. Thoughts?

[James B.]

Re: Need help with a set of Kelsey Hayes knock off wheels

Martin, other than paint, the only difference in the wheels was date stamping on the back. 64 wheels were ink stamped (so most stamps no longer visible) and late 64 and beyond wheels were actually stamped so those are still visible.

To my knowledge there was never any stamping on the fins or anywhere on the face of the wheels. If these are original Kelsey Hayes knock off wheels is the K-H stamping and part number clear on the backs of the wheels?

Damage from improper mounting can be a dangerous problem. I suggest you have the seller send you pictures of the backs of the two damaged wheels; post them here and there will be knowledgeable people who can comment.

[James W.]

Re: Need help with a set of Kelsey Hayes knock off wheels

Martin,

I agree with Jim's comments regarding the damage to the wheels. I wouldn't spend a dime on them until you have good picture of the damage to the adapter alignment holes so that you can determine what repairs can/should be made.

As for the 1965/66 color between the fins. This can be replicated by using VHT brand high heat cast blast paint. The color is very close to the original that was applied by Kelsey Hayes. There is a proper procedure for applying the paint to the fins to give it that "rough" texture. The time consuming part is preppnig each wheel for painting. I've attached a picture of my '65 spare tire that I restored using the VHT brand paint.


Regards,

James West

Are there differences (other than the color of the fins) on a set of early 1964 KH knock off wheels vs. a early set of 1965 KH knock off wheels. If the wheel fins are refinished in 65 fin color would they be indistinguishable from original 65 wheels? Is the darker finish on 1965 wheel fins something that can be added easily?

There appears to be a number of 03 stamped on a single fin of each of the wheels. Does this mean the wheels are from the same car? Is this stamping something that would not appear in 1965?

Two of the wheels are supposedly damaged on the inside due to improper mounting. Seller says it is not visible from the outside and should not affect the performance of the wheels. Thoughts?