Argosy Hub Cap/Wheel Cover

COArgosy78 · 08-11-2004, 02:33 PM

I am sick at heart. We have discovered that one of the hub caps for our Minuet came off while on our last camp trip. I am asking, pleading, requesting, begging, wondering, praying that someone might have a source for a replacement. I have asked Andy, and of course this is not readily available (not an ongoing item). I have tried Colaws and Duane indicated that they are now buying only more recent AS trailers (90's and newer) and he does not have one, neither does the dealer in AZ. I will be trying some other avenues (like e-bay), but knowing that many of you try to help out the guy in trouble, would ask if you have any leads to PLEASE post here

PS: I might also suggest to all who have caps that can't easily be replaced, that you remove those and replace w/something cheap, but reliable for coverage. Maybe use your good ones at Rallies and such. Just a thought.

thenewkid64 · 08-11-2004, 02:43 PM

Can you post a picture of one that you still have so we know of what you are looking for?

COArgosy78 · 08-11-2004, 02:57 PM

Hi Brett - I meant to say above that I can't post a picture right now because our NEW SONY digital has taken a dive (I posted about that already!!, grrr). If anyone w/a Minuet could do that, I would be ever so greatful. I can tell you that it covers the hub area, not the entire wheel. It is dark grey (maybe was black, wayback when), has 6 lugnut holes and the center is raised (sticks out further than the rest), w/ARGOSY written on it. I am sooo sad.....

thenewkid64 · 08-11-2004, 03:29 PM

I know what you are describing. I have seen them.

I may know of a source, let me call him......................

In fact I have a picture.

COArgosy78 · 08-11-2004, 03:54 PM

Brett - Thank you, thank you!!! I am keeping my fingers and toes crossed and sending you many positive brain waves - I have been on the internet all days trying to come up w/ a source. You are wonderful person to take the time!!

PS Yes, that looks like the ones we have.

59toaster · 08-11-2004, 04:02 PM

Damn if those wheels don't look like GM factory wagon wheels and center caps with a Argosy center instead of the 4wd logo.
http://brochures.slosh.com/
look at the 1979 tab. second to the end on right has a nice clear shot of a Chevy Wagon wheel option including the center cap.

What you might do is buy a set of the Chevy centers and paint the 4wd logo a solid color.

thenewkid64 · 08-11-2004, 04:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 59toaster

Damn if those wheels don't look like GM factory wagon wheels and center caps with a Argosy center instead of the 4wd logo.

The biggest difference I can see is that the Chevy ones screw on from the front, these screw on form the back. Oh yeah and the Chevy ones are chromed.

I have called and he is going to look for the best one he has. They are a bit sun fried so they tend to be a bit brittle. I am sure that it could be had for the freight cost.

COArgosy78 · 08-11-2004, 04:12 PM

Price is asking if we could get 2 - just in case 1 or another breaks up or gets lost again. I am going to see about something to use for all the camp trips and save these for special trips - I know they are just plastic and all, but they help to make the trailer special.

59toaster · 08-11-2004, 04:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thenewkid64

I They are a bit sun fried so they tend to be a bit brittle.

The Chevy ones are cast pot metal and then chromed. Are the Argosy's plastic?

thenewkid64 · 08-11-2004, 04:28 PM

Yep, everything on an Argosy is designed to be lightweight

**overlander64** · 08-12-2004, 01:41 AM

The plastic Argosy center caps on my '78 Minuet attach with screws from the front, and appear to be almost identical in attachment to the Chevrolet/GMC item posted by 59Toaster. When my Minuet threw one of its center caps, the metal washers and attaching screws remained with the wheel. The center cap on my Minuet fell victim to excess vibrations from a worn-out axle as well as being towed through a very rough Interstate construction zone in addition to having been exposed to 25 years of sun. In fact, I have been considering getting a Chevrolet center cap from the local salvage yard to see if it fits.

According to the best photographic representation (of the period) that I have been able to find, the cap was originally black with the Argosy script in an orange that matched the beltline inserts.

Kevin

59toaster · 08-12-2004, 10:33 AM

Too bad somebody with a Argosy with that style cap isn't closer. I have a set of Chevy's in the garage. We could test fit them. Mine are 4wd versions and two have open center for the front hub. The rear are solid and what is shown in the pictures on the site I listed. My bet is they would fit.