Thread: is it possible to weld up & re-drill a differnt bolt pattern on a aluminum rim???

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...thanks for the link.... ;0

How about slotting the holes?
I have changed the wheel patterns on many wheels by welding up the hubs (change # of holes) then redrill them, same with aluminum wheels( you should heat the aluminum to about 300*-350* before wheling). I have added a second bolt patern, and I have slotted the hole to a bigger or smaller patern, and then you don't have all the holes to show.

Just another way to do it.

Pat

When I encountered this I just sent the axels to Moser and them plugged and redrilled and tapped for long studs.

What about having the holes elongated to a uni-lug,seems like a machine shop could handle that with ease.

I would not get the holes elongated as you may be asking for bigger problems. Could be hard to get the studs to lock down and then the wheel may slip and damage the wheel or the studs or both. Seen it happen.

There are wheel shops that can put the ford bolt circle in along the chevy bolt circle. Shouldn't be real expensive but you might want to check that before the first hole is drilled. And if done by a quality shop it should be good forever, just like a new dual bolt circle wheel. I would stay away from welding if possible.

Originally Posted by mopar34

I would not get the holes elongated as you may be asking for bigger problems. Could be hard to get the studs to lock down and then the wheel may slip and damage the wheel or the studs or both. Seen it happen.

I have done a number of wheels for other people, and never had one come loose yet! You can also buy them that way. I have not seen or heard of one coming loose (That was installed right). One set I did is a pair of 10X15's, and have been on a '68 Dart with a 340 for 6-7 yrs, and he puts the rubber down on the road often!
Why would it be hard to tighten the lugs? Any aluminum wheel should to be rechecked after some miles are on them, to be sure there set and tight (Don't install wheels with a impack, get out your breaker bar and feel how tight it is).

Pat