Kelsey Wooden Wheel Information

I have a 1927 Chevy truck with wood wheels, Kelsey according to the manual I have, and some spokes are starting to rot. The wheels are complete, and not loose, but I don't think they are safe. I'm looking for information to help me repair/rebuild these wheels, or information to someone who does this type of work.<P>Any information would be appreciated.<P>Thanks,<P>JamesP

[ronbarn]

One approach is to remove any existing finish from the spokes. Then apply a product called Kwik-Poly. This is an epoxy product with a very low viscosity (until it sets), thus it soaks into the dry rot areas and seals them very well. The only problems are that you must work fast in small areas since the product hardens very fast and you will not be able to achieve a bare wood finish - you will need to paint the spokes after you have applied the Kwik-Poly and sanded the wood.<P>There are several wheelwrights throughout the country that advertise to replace or rebuild wood spoke wheels. If you live anywhere near Amish country, their wagonmakers may be able to do this work for you. The wheels on my 1911 Hudson were rebuilt by an Amish wagonmaker - don't ask me who because this was done by a previous owner.

Thanks for the tips. I found the Kwik-Poly page and will study up on that.<P>A Kwik look implies that one wheel will need more intensive work. If anyone can recommend a wheelwright in the Northeast US, I'd be grateful.

Kelsey wood wheels were used on many makes during the 1920s including Dodge. There are a lot of wheels that still exist in reasonably good condition without cars attached. Just check out the vendors at Hershey and other large swap meets. Also, I believe that there was a recent article in Skinned Knuckles about restoration, care and maintenance of wood wheels in general.