How to Install Vintage Hubcaps
According to the Antique Auto Club of America, an automobile is classified as antique or vintage when it reaches 25 years of age. Changing a tire or wheel on an early car may require special knowledge, but when the car's design includes a hubcap, the same method is used whether the car is a classic or is this year's model. Locate the appropriate hubcap and a rubber mallet to get started.
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Instructions
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Mounting Ring
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1
Place a soft cloth on an even surface to protect the hubcap from scratches.
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2
Set the hubcap face down on the cloth and line the ring up to the metal clips on the mounting legs of the hubcap.
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3
Locate the stem valve notch and align the ring accordingly. The valve stem notch forms a "V." There is a similar dip in the mounting ring.
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4
Snap the ring into the metal clips, flanking the valve stem notch. Once the ring is fastened into the first five to six clips, the ring has enough stability to hold its alignment while you place the remainder of the ring in the clips. It may appear that the ring is too big, but it is an optical illusion. Withhold judgment until the ring has been inserted in the final clasp.
Installation
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5
Inspect the hubcap for discoloration. Small imperfections may be remedied with chrome paint, or flat spray paint if the hubcap is plastic. Make sure you are satisfied with its appearance prior to installation.
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6
Align the hubcap onto the wheel. Locate the valve stem and line it up to the valve notch, and line up the lug nut positions as well.
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7
Applying pressure, place the hubcap onto the tire. Hold the hubcap in an even parallel position. The retention clips will slide into the rim as pressure is increased.
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8
Gently tap the hubcap evenly with a rubber mallet. An alternate method is to pound the hubcap with the heel of the hand or side of the fist, but a mallet prevents hand injury. It also insures the even application of pressure, and prevents damage to the hubcap from rings and watches, especially if a period hubcap is used.
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Tips & Warnings
If a hubcap is plastic, wait until temperatures are above freezing for installation to prevent cracking. If an authentic hubcap cannot be located, replica hubcaps are available. Many currently produced hubcaps also fit vintage automobiles.
