[Urzwoo]

Hi, I've read that it's possible to reuse the spire nuts if removed carefully.

Any tips for the best way?

Thanks!

Hubcap help

I was polishing up the hubcaps on my SCII and found on 2 of hubcaps the finish has become rater dull, especially in the outer valley of hubcap and wondering how best to polish them up (I used Mothers Chrome polish) are the hubcaps nickel plated, or can they just be machine polished? also how...

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[Wraithman]

The color trim ring is usually known as the "orbit" and held onto the wheel cover with press-on speed nuts which are a pain to remove, but you will get the hang of it and the nuts can be re-used once flattened a bit. I pry them up a little and grab the edge with a broad pliers with a twist and pull motion. It will test your patience for some. If you have to replce these, they are a common item in a decent hardware store. The spire nut that was linked will not work since that depends on threads which the orbit posts due not have , hence the friction fit of the RR nut

 

[Urzwoo]

Many thanks! On my list of to-do's for next week!

 

[Wraithman]

It's amazing how many wheel covers show distorted edges due to improper removal. Fortunately, they are stainless and can be worked over and buffed to a nice shine.

 

[Urzwoo]

Yes, mine aren't too bad, but also bear the effects of someone not being careful in the past.
I'll be getting them straightened and buffed.

 

[Wraithman]

All of the wheelcovers on this 1976 LWB were a mess. I straightened, buffed and polished up to 7000 grit. Yes they shine. One day I'll add the pinstripes to the orbit.

 

[Dounraey]

Wraithman - How did you straighten the edge of your wheelcovers? Was it with a planishing hammer and dolly or did you use a vice to press the edges flat. Mine aren't too bad so I've not tried it so far, for fear of making them worse.

 

[Wraithman]

You need "bumping hammers" and a bench anvil and assorted files and quality sandpapers. It's a systematic process especially when cutting the scratches to the final shine. One of the worst things to do with metal is to stretch it. I also use maple wood blocks as a dolly. All my polishing and buffing is in another building on the property because it is dirty business. I have pedestal mounted buffers over there. Metal likes to be worked slowly and sometimes in a pattern.

 

[Dounraey]

Thanks for your reply Wraithman. As I thought, a considerable amount of skill is required, particularly in not stretching the metal, so I shall leave well alone.