Knock-offs for a C3 (15 x 8")

[paul67]

Yes they were made for C3s by Western in the 1980s and marketed by Corvette America and Ecklers. I believe they came out of Mexico as C3 alloy wheels did. I am thinking of buying a set for my 1974. They are the correct 15 x 8", not the C2 15 x 6".

Anyone have any experience with knock-offs? Do they loosen and even fall off as some have suggested. It would seem to me that properly installed (many directions on-line) they should be fine. I invite comments.

[Rod75]

I've never owned a set. Just removed & installed a few sets over the years on OP cars.
Here's some info you may find helpful:
http://www.vetteweb.com/tech/vemp_11...ck_off_wheels/

http://www.lbfun.com/warehouse/tech_...es/KOwheel.pdf

http://licorvette.com/Aluminum_wheels_corvette_c2.htm

Merry Christmas Everyone!

[Mooser]

Friend of mine has a 63 with factory knock-offs. Has had it forever, drives it quite a bit and never had any issues.
The race (well, the cobra and grand-sport replicas') frequently safety wire them.
I take it your eying up those ones now that your top is done.
All the best
Mooser

[iburke]

I owned a 350 hp 1966 coup with knock off's drove it a lot of hard miles never had a spec of trouble with them also had a 72 MG 1500 with them, never a problem.

[paul67]

Originally Posted by Mooser

Friend of mine has a 63 with factory knock-offs. Has had it forever, drives it quite a bit and never had any issues.
The race (well, the cobra and grand-sport replicas') frequently safety wire them.
I take it your eying up those ones now that your top is done.
All the best
Mooser

Yep, the hardtop is done and looks just fine. It is in the basement with a top on it that came with the carrier. The new weatherstrip is installed with a little bit of 3M adhesive. Sure looks fine.



This wheel set has the safety wires. May look a little tacky for the street but what the heck.

BTW, Merry Christmas!

[paul67]

Originally Posted by iburke

I owned a 350 hp 1966 coup with knock off's drove it a lot of hard miles never had a spec of trouble with them also had a 72 MG 1500 with them, never a problem.

There is much ado about these wheels over at the NCRS Tech Board. I suspect that it is just a matter of proper installation and I have thoroughly researched that. I hope to have these wheels in the coming weeks. And I will not hesitate to use them come April.

[Sly Vette]

Never seen a pair up close. Very interesting!
What would be a ballpark price for a set of driver quality wheels and how hard are they to find. Or...Does anyone still make then new?
Thanks and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

[paul67]

The knock-off deal did not go through. I backed out for reasons that will not be disclosed. BUT, Corvette Central (a sponsor here) will be sending me their #643308 1978 Pace Car package soon. I look forward to receipt! Those red stripes should look very nice on my 1974.

I will sell the Centerlines for a modest price in the spring.

[Mooser]

I don't mind those on older c3's at all

[MC's79C3]

Originally Posted by Sly Vette

Never seen a pair up close. Very interesting!
What would be a ballpark price for a set of driver quality wheels and how hard are they to find. Or...Does anyone still make then new?
Thanks and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I found two sets in NC. One set of Kelsey Hayes and one set of Westerns. I don't know if I would pay double for the Kelsey Hayes but real knock offs are pretty cool!

http://charlotte.craigslist.org/pts/3487236655.html

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/pts/3494380406.html

[kingjameo]

Never seen a pair up close. Very interesting!

[69 chevy]

Never had a problem with my Kelsey Hayes knock offs...they have a tapered pin that locks them in place under the center dust cap. I use a Snap-On 4# dead blow hammer instead of that lead OEM hammer.

[Sly Vette]

Originally Posted by 69 chevy

Never had a problem with my Kelsey Hayes knock offs...they have a tapered pin that locks them in place under the center dust cap. I use a Snap-On 4# dead blow hammer instead of that lead OEM hammer.

Just a bit off topic here but....
I'm in the process of getting my '69 convertible painted black and I was wondering what kind of feedback do you get with the white soft top on your car? I have a black top on mine now but I kinda' like the contrast of the black paint and white top on yours.
Just Curious...