[Chrysler300] proper way to not lose wheelcovers

[Andy Mikonis <r41hp@xxxxxxxxx>]

This wheel discussion has been pretty interesting. One supposed "symptom" of wheels flexing has been said to be the throwing of hubcaps, and some equally interesting ways to keep them on have been offered. I think the real problem is the clips on wheel covers need to be periodically adjusted, and most people don't do it. If you install your own hubcaps, you'll probably remember they are held on by numerous tabs, usually with serrated edges, that are bent over into a u-shape. The spring tension of this bend makes the tab bite into the wheel, but over the years of removing and installing them the bend is flattened out and they don't bite the wheel as much. Then they will turn and creak, and fly off.

Before you reinstall your wheel covers, turn them face down, grab a set of slip-joint pliers (the longer the better), and go around and grab each corner of each tab and give it a little bend out. If you've never done this, you'll be surprised at how much more effort it takes to install the wheel cover, and how much more positive the grabbing action of the tabs feels.

This applies to most of our 300 wheel covers. The 300K wheel cover is a little different (and possibly the '55-'56, too, can't remember.) The "teeth" are more like holes punched in a band that goes around. Doesn't clamp as well, but can still be adjusted by carefully bending the whole band and/or the individual teeth out.

I'll bet my Club News editor salary that if you do this, your wheel covers won't creep or fly off. And you won't need wet paint, silicone or bolts. Where did I pick up this tip? I worked in a hub cap shop in high school!

Andy Mikonis
in steamy Chicago


      


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