Kelsey split rims

[Acadia_john]

Need more information. Does anyone have pictures of the 1926 Kelsey split rim locking device on the rim that fits up inside the fellow? ( I may have included a photo thanks to the person who provided this photo ) I would also like to see photos of the pin that locked it together. Thanks in advance.

[Mark Gregush]

Can't help with the pin but that shows me what might be missing from the 21" Canadian rim I have. (Pretty sure it's Canadian, has the holes for the rim spreader) Mine is maybe missing the loops the pin goes thru.

[Acadia_john]

Hi Mark, It is like the two halves of a small hinge. Each piece would normally be riveted to the rim but I am not sure how the halves lock It must have been a poor design as most that I have found are broken. Most Canadian cars seem to have had the Kelsey rims and as they failed they were replaced with Chev rims. I am hoping to have some locks reproduced when I get enough information. John

[Scott C.]

Here are some pictures of one. One of the loupes broke off when I drove out the pin. The pin is 5/16" diameter x 1 1/8" long.

[Acadia_john]

Hi Scot C. Thanks for the photos. That information is very helpful. I was wondering what type of fastener and what size was used in the wheel. I will put this information to good use. Happy motoring, John

[Allan]

John, just be aware that if you need to replace the latch pieces, be sure to offset them as in the last few photos. The pin needs to be wholly on one side of the split. If you have the pin centred over the split, which seems intuitive, you will not be able to split the rim and mount tyres.

I have a number of these rims with varying degrees of damage to the latches. I have often wondered whether they could be replaced with a door hinge from a 26-7 T.

Allan from down under.

[Acadia_john]

Hi Allan, We are planning to make new ones for my wheels. I tried a hinge but you would need the multiple barrels for stability. I plan to make these pieces so they will resemble the original only made stronger with better steel. John from Nova Scotia , Canada

[Acadia_john]

I take it that the pin that holds the two sides together is friction fit. I did not notice any fasteners on the pin. Does anyone know for sure?

[FundyTides]

These are exactly like the rims on my 27. There are no fasteners on the pin, they are just friction fit and never seem to move once in place.

[Mark Gregush]

I would say slide fit and held in place by the two sides of the fellow.

[Scott C.]

Yes, just a slip fit and once mounted the steel fellow prevents them from coming out. That and probably the pressure from 32 PSI of air pressure in the tubes.

[Acadia_john]

Thanks. The more information I get the easier it will be to make new ones.