Newbie - question on rims (need answer today!)

ltenbrink · 06-06-2009, 01:45 PM

Hello! We just got our first AS - 1968 Sovereign! I've been lurking on this site for a while during our search and rescue mission...so you knowledgeable owners out there, here's my question. We're in podunk MI with lots of salvage yard type stuff available - what (if any) mainstream vehicle would have a compatible wheel rim for us to snag as a spare for our 500+ mile trip home? We need to find something today because our trek home begins tomorrow AM!

Thanks!!!

Melody Ranch · 06-06-2009, 03:02 PM

a 6 on 5 1/2 no off set. BUT, a junk yard wheel is just that. Why not get a real wheel....your going to need it in the future anyway?

**overlander64** · 06-06-2009, 03:40 PM

Greetings ltenbrink!

Two additional requirements for a rim are that is must have a 4.25" center bore and a weight capacity of at least 2,600 pounds. The one that poses the greatest difficulty is the center bore, and it is a requirement to insure that the wheel will seat properly against the drum. Try checking with a farm store -- they often carry new trailer wheels in their farm equipment department that would be a much better alternative to anything from an automotive salvage yard.

Kevin

P.S.: With a tandem axle Airstream, it is permissible to remove one rim and tire in an emergency and travel at low speed for short distances until the flat/blown tire can be repaired/replaced.

ltenbrink · 06-08-2009, 09:49 PM

Oh, we'll get a real one soon but after blowing pretty much all of our fun money on the trip to get her, plus some repairs to make it safe to tow her home...plus some new flooring we couldn't pass up because of the price, junk yard would be our option to have a "really, just in case" spare.

So, thanks all for the information - it helped us understand our trailer tires/rims a lot better!!