Kelsey Hayes wheels on hydraulic brakes.
 

I am running 16” Kelsey Hayes wheels on early Ford hydraulic brakes. My question is, do I need to use spacers between the wheels and the drums? I have heard both ways. I would like to hear your ideas and why. Thanks.

Re: Kelsey Hayes wheels on hydraulic brakes.
 

Yes, either of two types of spacers are available and should be used. The hydraulic drums have no raised backing surface on the inside of the hub bolts (as do the earlier drums) and the basic act of tightening the nuts puts significant stress on the wheel with potential cracking. Discussed several times in previous threads, mostly on the Early V8 forum.

Re: Kelsey Hayes wheels on hydraulic brakes.
 

Thanks Randy. I have the spacers and will put them on. Appreciate your explanation. I was/am a little concerned of having less stud length for the lug nuts to utilize.

Re: Kelsey Hayes wheels on hydraulic brakes.
 

abone,

I had a similar problem where I wanted the wheel inboard as far as possible to avoid fender clearance issues.

I made the step rings only and epoxied them to the drum itself. Once the wheel is clamped they have no issues. You only have to be careful when taking wheel on and off.

This saved the amount of offset of the flange.

John