Hot Rods 16" Kelsey Hayes

Looking to buy a set for the '32 Roadster I am building. Are there 2 different widths offered for the 16" rims? What is a normal price these days for the rims? Anyone have any to sell? Thanks!

 

4.5 & 5-inch are the most common. Also note there were 36 & 40-spoke wheels. Stop by in Long Beach sometime to shoot the breeze- like to hear what you are building.

 

By Kelsey-Hayes do you mean stock 35 Ford 16" production line wheels OR the desireable and hard-to-find accessory "bent-spoke" Kelseys of legend?

 

The Kelsey Hayes Bent Spoke versions

 

The most common 40 spoke Kelseys are 4" wide. There are 4-1/2" but are very hard to find. I've only seen four of them. Two are on my roadster. I've never heard of a 5" wide 16" Kelsey Hayes 40 spoke. They seem to be in the $150 to $200 range these days.....

 

I know you probably already know this but there are at least a few companys that make that style of wire wheel and you can get any size you want for the same money as an old one.

 

Nothing looks like original Kelsey bent spokes though !

 

There are no repro wheels made that even remotely look like bent spoke Kelseys....

 

BUT, Wheelkid's new wires made from an original Ford center look a whole lot like an original Kelsey adjustable bent spoke. I think he posted pics here a while ago, and has one in his avitar.

 

I've never paid over $30 bux for usable ones in need of a good blasting and painting, but then again, i'm cheap, i'd say a good price would be around 200 a set, and dont forget if running hydrolic brakes the need a support plate or they can crack

 

Look on Coeur d' Alene, Idaho Craigslist. Looks like a Kelsey for $75.
Monday May 11.

 

Correct. The 4.5" version is rare. If people know they have a 4.5" $300. Most people think they have a 4" so $100-$200 depending on condition.

Finding a really nice set may take time if you buy them as singles but can be done. That is what I did. Took a while but was worth it. Guys that only have one find it hard to sell just one. Must people are looking to buy sets.

Good luck

 

I've got one 4" wide I'd sell for $125 and one 4.5" for sell for $175. Call me 559-347-9665
Jimmy

 

Looks like 3 more Kelseys on Boise craigslist 5/13.

 

I have question! Can i use firestone 750-16 bias ply tire on 16x4 relsey hayes rim? The 750-16 suggested rim width is 5-6"!

 

Your question has been asked and answered dozens of times before...a simple search would have given you the answer...yes...7.50 work just fine on 4" wheels

 

I have one I will sell also. Still need to take the old tire off of it and check overall condition. Rod