wheel centres

[FlipFlopGriff]

FlipFlopGriff said:

I've got a spare front and rear both with centres. I've tried to get one out and its impossible. The only solution I can think of is something akin to pair of pliers with 2 halves with 2 semi circles that squeeze the lug enough to release them. I'm no engineer but know what I think would work.
These need to be removed every time you change a tyre so cant believe anyone still has any left.
FFG

I've had another think and maybe something that looks like a potato masher but with a circualr shaped ring at the bottom which would push over the lugs enough to release the cap - not sure if there is enough space between the lugs and wheel to do it though. Any other ideas?
I need to get the wheels refurbed and only have a spare set of Estorils with tyres I would use on the road on for now.
FFG

[FlipFlopGriff]

I've got just over a week to get the caps off and the wheels refurbed. If not no car at the Growl for me.
Any help appreciated.
FFG

[Barreti]

How about a big pair of water pump / pipe pliers Paul

I have a couple of pair if you want to give them a try

[FlipFlopGriff]

The difficulty is there isnt (or not that I can see) a slot to start the removal just 5 or 6 lugs which runs virtually all the way around and I can't see how you can remove them without breaking lugs off.
FFG

[FlipFlopGriff]

tried to put aluminium trip around the lugs and pull it in but no joy. Tried 6 screwdrivers but not possible with 2 hands. tried 3 flat head screwdrivers and it comes out. Wheel upside down and it pops out. Did damage a few more lugs though.
FFG

[Barreti]

Have you tried putting some flat wood on the top of the lugs and clout it?

[FlipFlopGriff]

Barreti said:

Have you tried putting some flat wood on the top of the lugs and clout it?

That would break all the lugs I am sure. I do have 2 spare caps.
Great idea! If they were a consumable then maybe. The TVR badges are probably non existent as well. I've got some wedge lattice wheels and the TVR stick on centres are the same!!
FFG

[griffdude]

Have had a bit of a result with this.

It turns out an acquaintance has a plastic injection moulding company & I took one of my wheel centres down to his factory to see if he could replicate it. Turns out that the back bit with the lugs is the tricky part, but he has a very similar tool already that he thinks he can adapt to produce a satisfactory outcome. He's off on hols for a couple of weeks but on his return I'll pop down & see what developments have taken place.

[Barreti]

If he can make some Griffdude I'll put my name down for a set to make up the numbers and make it worth his while sorting them out.

I managed to wangle a wheel centre from Gotti who were on a stand at Classic Le Mans.
They aren't the same people though, they're from France not Belgium, but the woman on the stand knew Gotti and the link with TVR.
Sadly the centre I have is a bit too big for our wheels.

Edited by Barreti on Tuesday 22 July 13:06

[ThePrisoner]

Griffdude

If you get a result with this, put me down for a set of Four.

Many Thanks

P