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RichardT · 02-02-2005, 07:42 PM

Which do you like best for my 24' motorhome?
I always wanted the 8 hole classic
But wonder what the new style would look like.

Vote for best one you like and tell me why.

wheel 1 is New style
wheel 2 is Classic 8 hole

thenewkid64 · 02-02-2005, 07:52 PM

The new style is not something that I think would look good on a classic.

Just my opinion. If I was doing it, I would go with number 2

67caravel · 02-02-2005, 08:29 PM

I was told today that Airstream had decided to change wheel design recently, the wheel manufacturer (can't remember the name) offered all the excess inventory for sale through their distributors, then Airstream changed its mind.

Is that what this topic is all about - a legitimate change in wheel design?

Curious.

RichardT · 02-02-2005, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Xray

Is that what this topic is all about - a legitimate change in wheel design?

Curious.

Nope Just gettin opinions for me to consider.

PS I never saw the wheels side by side untill I put up this post, and while I like the new style, I am leaning back towards the wheels i have always wanted The Classics.
I am gonna decide soon and get new wheels (7)
New tires (7)
and Balance Masters front and rear.
And I hate spending money!

But all this for something I havent even really used yet! (No time yet, but soon.)
I love it.
Ain't obsession grand!

jpurdy · 02-02-2005, 10:13 PM

I agree the Classic 8 Hole looks best

steelbird312 · 02-03-2005, 05:41 AM

Richardt,
The classic is diffinitely the one.
The wheel is manufactured by Alcoa Aluminum Co, and Southwest Wheel is a source. When I went to get new wheels for my trailer, Airstream wanted 300.62 each for them, plus lugs and centers. Southwest sells the same for $137. I have no idea what your wheels might be.They have a website. Normal disclaimers- I'm retired and have nothing to do with them other than pleased with their products.
Also, normally, the inside wheel of the duals will be steel- are you planning on using aluminum inner wheels also?
steelbird312

RichardT · 02-03-2005, 05:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steelbird312

Also, normally, the inside wheel of the duals will be steel- are you planning on using aluminum inner wheels also?
steelbird312

Since I have to by all new wheels as my originals are 16.5" I am considering buying all Aluminum wheels. I will be attemping to get 2 Blems for inners, it depends on cost, and have not decided on the spare yet. It is that or pay for 2 new steel wheels for inners.
Is there a reason other than $ not to go all aluminum?

02-03-2005, 06:12 AM

Definitely the Classic 8 hole.The new style are missing the spinners.

thenewkid64 · 02-03-2005, 07:41 AM

The only issue you my have to worry about if you go with aluminum on the inside duals is the length of the mounting studs. From the factory the insides normally are steel. I would also go with a steel spare. Save the bucks for the rubber.

swebster · 02-03-2005, 10:25 AM

We have the 8 holes on our 345 - love the look - it "fits" the coach. Steel inners on the duals.

RichardT · 02-03-2005, 06:50 PM

I ordered Balance Masters front, rear, and two for the driveshafts today!
Tommorrow I am going to order the wheels and tires.
I have liked the Alcoas forever in the traditional 8 hole classic style, and while I briefly toyed with the idea of going with something a little more radical, the classics win hands down (as the pole shows).
The closest tire size to the original is 225/75/16 and I will go with E rated tires all around and a new spare, I will be getting 3 steel wheels for the spare and inner duals.
If anyone is interested I will have 7 factory wheels with 2 very new tires, 5 older tires, and 4 stainless steel hupcaps, If no one asks to buy I will put in storage for now.
Here is an icy side shot of my motorhome, and a closeup of the roof antenna cover with this afternoons ice!

<p>

steelbird312 · 02-03-2005, 08:19 PM

Sure is a good looking unit.
Remember what Bret said about the length of the studs. The aluminum wheels are pretty thick, so if you use Aluminum inners on the rear they probably will have to be changed. They may have to be anyway, no matter which you choose.
Good Luck,

Astrodokk · 02-03-2005, 09:55 PM

My MH came with 4 eight hole look hub caps, which CW sells. They look good and I heard that the steel ones won't "flatten" as easy as the aluminums if sitting too long. I kind of wish that the rears had the rims already, as I like the deep look for the back "offset"?

ALANSD · 02-07-2005, 12:13 PM

as for Southwest selling aluminum wheels at 130+ that sure sounds cheap. The wheel simulators ar 89 a piece or higher. Makes me want to do the real thing next time I replace a sim. Need to find that website.
By the way my wheel sims are chrome version of the classic wheel above, and they do look good. Of course ours are 19.5 and I think yours are 16.5...right?

RichardT · 02-07-2005, 06:19 PM

Well I did it! i ordered everything and should have it this weekend.
I ordered 4 Alcoa Classic 8 hole wheels with caps and lugs, 3 Steel wheels for inners and spare (brand new), 7 Firestone transforce 215/85/16 E rated tires, Balance Master for the front and rear wheels, and Balance Masters for the driveshaft.

When I ordered the Balance Masters I had them send me a catologue as I can get them wholesale since I have a store. After I have them and can say if they are good, I will be happy to get them for anyone that is interested at a discounted price.

I am pretty excited as I have wanted to do this for some time now.

Pictures soon!

Richardt

steelbird312 · 02-07-2005, 08:41 PM

AlansD,
The $130 wheel I spoke of early in the post was for the late madel classic trailer wheel. The factory wants $3oo.62, and Sotwest Wheel wantes $137. enters and lugs are extra. I am sure they have similar savings on the big ones, but I wouldn't think they would be that cheep!

RichardT · 02-09-2005, 07:21 PM

Tires showed up today via UPS
7 Firestone Transforce 215/85/16 LRE
Wheels should be here this weekend.
Balancers UPS tommorrow.

RichardT · 02-18-2005, 10:03 AM

I got the wheels!
Now to find time to install them.

balrgn · 02-18-2005, 10:23 AM

More aluminum to polish! I had a bad experience with 2 sets of Aluminum wheels. Although they saw year round use, the clear coat separation was UGLY. Classic hub caps look great!