Center boring a GM transport wheel

[67olds]

So, I will bring back an old thread with a bit of an off-topic question since people seem to be knowledgeable about these wheels. I recently posted a picture to a 67-72 FB group of my truck with transport wheels. A FB 'expert' came along and told me that people are having issues with breaking spindles due to the wait of these wheels. I researched these a lot before making the switch and had never read that. Any truth to this or just a FB expert feeding me nonsense?

[HO455]

Not an issue!
The forces involved with spindles have much more to do with usage, vehicle weight and maintenance of the vehicle than one particular wheel.

The wheel's diameter increases the force on the spindle when turning and braking at speed. Your wheels would not be much different than any other wheel of the same or larger diameter. I have read the "Make it Handle" thread several times and I have no recollection of anyone talking about spindle failures, irregardless of the wheel used. If there was a spindle failure problem it would be happening to folks who are pushing their trucks to the limit.

Low profile tires increase the force impacting the spindle when going over imperfections in the road or hitting objects. The force felt will be tempered by the shocks dampening. A stiffer shock increases the force to the spindle. Once again not wheel specific.

It also must be asked what spindles are failing? Stock OE? Aftermarket dropped? 5 lug, 6 lug?

A spindle is more likely to fail due to improper maintenance than other reasons. A failure of a wheel bearing is the most likely scenario.

In my mind this is more adolescent BUNK!
Why people create misinformation like this is beyond my understanding. Maybe they hope their BS catches on and suddenly a bunch of people start selling their wheels for cheap and the stupid loser can now afford a set of the wheels.

[67olds]

Appreciate the response. That is pretty much what I had thought, but figured I would come here and get some good information.

[kev2809]

wheels look great! i have been itching to get a set for my truck but i still have 5 lug. havent looked much into how they would mount with 5 lug. plus finding them local is probably the toughest part

[67olds]

There are a few places that will cut out the centers on these and weld in 5 lug or 8 lug centers, also change the back spacing. That gets pretty pricey though and you are probably better off just buying a custom wheel.

[kev2809]

yup, that seems to be the issue. the whole point of transport wheels is nice alternative to something like detroit steel wheels, with a cheaper cost.

[SCOTI]

Originally Posted by kev2809

yup, that seems to be the issue. the whole point of transport wheels is nice alternative to something like detroit steel wheels, with a cheaper cost.

Cheaper being subjective. They can be cheaper if you get a good deal, can get adapters + the parts req'd, & make any changes that are specific to your set-up @ a decent cost.

Start changing bolt patterns or reversing the wheel but have to outsource those tasks & the Detroit Steel wheels become much more affordable & simpler. Simple has value as well.

[kev2809]

yup, you are right. and that "can be" can dwindle down quick on those additional costs. i think the cheapest i found on ebay shipped was close to $1000. then adapters/redrill, plus painting/powdercoating them.

but anyways, wheels look great OP

[lolife99]

https://simplec10.myshopify.com/products/simple-bore
This kit allows you to bore the center out on your transport wheels.

[A1971Blazer]

I've bored or milled out more than a few wheels in my shop.....
AFAIK none ever gave a problem...
I do bore them hub-centric if possible