16" Wire Wheels, Spacers & Hyd. Brakes

steve hackel

Senior Member
Has anyone ever figured out how to adapt a 16" kelsey wheel onto a 53/56 F100 front brake assembly? I know there are spacers for the wire wheels and original early Ford hydraulic brakes, but that is only to space the wheel out far enough so that the back outer edge of the center hub (spoke bell) does not come in contact with the drums face, and dish in the lug nut area...? I believe that this is their purpose - am I correct? Has anyone ever seen an adapter made for these, or am I the only one ever trying to accomplish this. Any help, suggestions or direction would be helpful. :confused: Post any information here, or call me @ 708-687-4183. thanks, Steve
 
WheelKid on the HAMB makes the thick spacers to do this. They have to be really thick so the center flange clears the drum. I believe they are near 1.5" thick. I personally think it looks like *** to have the wheel way outside the brakes. The steering is way worse as the king pin axis no longer is near the tire contact area. It will be prone to shimmy and jerk when hitting a bump. To me it looks like a rat rod lash up.
 
That's right Andy, pushing wheels out with wacky deep offset or spacers not only looks off, it does bugger up the steering (heavier) for reasons as described.
 
Last edited:
Hi Steve,

Have a pair of spacers that I machined 10 years ago. Used them on my modified Model A. Didn't affect the steering or braking. Didn't like the wide tract look. Removed the F-1 brakes and replaced with early Lincolns which accept 16" Kelseys. If you want the spacers do a PM with your address. You cover the shipping costs only. Just cleaning out the garage.....

Jerry

Jerry
 
Back
Top