Newbie question - decorative lug covers

[idmtman]

Searching through the forums I saw a reference to the wheel lug nuts possibly being covered with a decorative cover. I have a 2006 Safari LS with aluminum wheels and have torqued the lug nuts to 120 pounds as specified in the owner's manual but some of the nuts (or covers) wiggle. I have backed off the lug nut and torqued it again with similar results. Is it common for the cover to move just a little and the lug nut still appropriately torqued? I have never seen a set-up like this and want to make sure I don't lose a wheel. Thanks for any help.

[overlander63]

Yes, this is a two part lug nut. It has the main part and a chrome cap. I detested them when they came out in the 1970's on some GM cars and trucks, and my feelings toward them have not mellowed with time. I would try to find some lug nuts for aluminum wheels that don't have that kind of cap. The thing I really hate about them is after you torque them in place, and have to remove that tire for, say, a flat repair, the cap can come loose and round off, or come off the lug nut completely, leaving you with an odd-size lug nut and no way to get it off.

[idmtman]

Thank you for the quick reply. I did notice that one of the covers was rounded and I couldn't get my socket on that lug. Sounds like I have torqued the lugs correctly but the long run solution is to purchase new lug nuts.

[TBRich]

It is a bit unnerving to feel the the lug not covers wiggle even though the are tight, but they are OK...you're good.

[Dwight]

Get some McGard lug nuts....they have a great warranty and you can get them at Pep Boys, etc.....

[idmtman]

Dwight, what size lug nuts are used on the AS? 1/2 x 20? Also does one use the bulge style to accomodate the aluminum rims?

[Dwight]

Let me look today at the package and post a photo....

[Dwight]

Here you go....I didn't use an locking lugs on any of the wheels...

[idmtman]

Thanks Dwight. Those are the ones I thought. I think I will get those pronto and be done with the decorative covers. I appreciate it.

[stufarmer]

I picked up my replacement Lug Nuts at a Marine Outlet. They are the proper style and made of Stainless Steel. They stay shinny and don't corroded.