MTFCA Forum

I recently came into the possession of a Ford-type, fixed lug Kelsey rim (30 x 3.5) which appears to be stamped a number 188. I've been trying to find some info on it but so far no luck. Outwardly it resembles other Ford-type fixed lug rims I've got. Anybody have any more info?

FWIW - I did find mention of a "88" which appears to be a loose-lug Kelsey.

Photo - ignore the dark rub marks

Oldav8tor wrote: ↑

Mon Aug 12, 2024 6:47 pm

I recently came into the possession of a Ford-type, fixed lug Kelsey rim (30 x 3.5) which appears to be stamped a number 188. I've been trying to find some info on it but so far no luck. Outwardly it resembles other Ford-type fixed lug rims I've got. Anybody have any more info?

FWIW - I did find mention of a "88" which appears to be a loose-lug Kelsey.

Photo - ignore the dark rub marksKelsey.jpg

From a previous discussion
https://mtfca.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=32502

Tim, the rub marks are an indication that the rim fitted correctly. Fixed lug rims are designed to wedge on the wider inner land on the felloe, and the marks show that this one fitted well. If the rim/felloe combination is worn, the rims can go further onto the felloe and the lugs can impinge on the outer face of the felloe. In this scenario, the four wheel bolts are doing the job of holding the rim in place on the felloe. Ideally all the four bolts should be doing is maintaining the wedge effect of the rim on the inner felloe land. This wedge is what should be taking the "drive".

Allan from down under.

Thanks for the info - I just found this rim to be interesting inasmuch as there's not too much info out there on Kelsey fixed-lug rims. It looks to me to be a well-made rim.