TAC Tech => Tires, Brakes & Suspension => Topic started by: 737driver on April 14, 2023, 10:38:22 PM
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I had to get a new set of tires on my 79 TransAm and I removed the center caps without any issue. Problem is getting the caps back on the rims. They are original 15x8 snowflakes. The caps seems like they need to be really forced fit into place. Just looking for any advice or tips installing them. From what I remember it didn’t seem that difficult to install them 10 years ago.
Thanks,
Jim
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Original metal round type? They just generally thump on until seated. Or add a rag over the emblem and thump them around the edges with a rubber mallet to get it started.
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Thanks! I’ll give that a shot, I believe that’s how I did it awhile back.
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Yep, original fit right. I replaced mine with reproductions and fit was loose. I put silicone around inside edge because I was afraid they might come off
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(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52891836338_1121254fb6_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ozSudJ)Firebird alloy wheel centre cap diagram (https://flic.kr/p/2ozSudJ) by Ben (https://www.flickr.com/photos/196419001@N03/), on Flickr
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When installing the cap as shown in the photo above, don't wack the plastic emblem. Make sure the tool hits the raised outer edge of the cap. If you hit the emblem it can break off or worse yet-crack.
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"Follow diagrams 100%. GM also has spares sold over the counter"
Possibly the cropped text, possibly.
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"Follow diagrams 100%. GM also has spares sold over the counter"
Possibly the cropped text, possibly.
That is kinda how I did it. Thanks for posting the information!
Jim
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Haha yeah I only follow those instructions to remove. Otherwise a thick rag over the top and a soft mallet tapped around the edges until it seats, avoiding the emblem as mentioned. Then a few blobs of silastic on the inside to secure from rattling loose if needed.