hubcap removal

[dooguy]

probably a silly question. how do you remove hubcaps (K20) without bending and denting

[jocko]

I use cheapie metal version of this hubcap removal thingamabob with some thick tape over a remnant of microfiber towel wrapped around the part of the tool where it levers against the wheel (the little elbow) so I don't scratch my pearly whites.

[Cali72K20]

I am cheap and use these, especially for the non-stainless caps. I roll up some clean shop rags and use them as the fulcrum and just pop them off, make sure you are ready to catch them, watching a freshly polished cap bounce and roll on concrete SUCKS!

https://www.harborfreight.com/trim-a...m+removal+tool

[dooguy]

Originally Posted by jocko

I use cheapie metal version of this hubcap removal thingamabob with some thick tape over a remnant of microfiber towel wrapped around the part of the tool where it levers against the wheel (the little elbow) so I don't scratch my pearly whites.

works good? I'm fearful of bending cap

Thanks for reply

[jocko]

I've never bent a cap using it the metal one I have, but of course you do have to be careful - I kinda work it around the perimeter with a couple of pries, not try to yank it off the wheel in one fell swoop. You're levering against the rolled rim of the perimeter, it's pretty strong compared to the rest of the cap area (which is easy to dent).

[jocko]

for reference, the metal one I have is shaped like the center tool in the link Cali72K20 shared. And I wrap the towel w/tape around the loopy part that contacts the wheel. I don't have a link to the metal one I have, but now that they make them in plastic, that might be preferred. (thanks Cali)

[dooguy]

Originally Posted by Cali72K20

I am cheap and use these, especially for the non-stainless caps. I roll up some clean shop rags and use them as the fulcrum and just pop them off, make sure you are ready to catch them, watching a freshly polished cap bounce and roll on concrete SUCKS!

https://www.harborfreight.com/trim-a...m+removal+tool

I do have stainless caps. These are plastic?
Are the stainless easier to dent/

Thanks for reply

[Cali72K20]

Thank you sir! I use the one you mentioned and the one next to it with the big loop, they work for you for less than $10.00!

[Cali72K20]

The 72 and earlier are chrome over brass, blue bow ties with the convex center

[Cali72K20]

They are thick plastic and you can fine tune them down to fit the circumference of the inner cap next to the nubs. Then just fit them under and "pop" them off.

[Cali72K20]

Stainless is the way to go, the only difference is the center is concave and with a yellow bow tie.

[special-K]

I always used a cats paw/lambs paw nail puller. On nice wheels I'd use a waded up shop rag against the wheel to avoid damaging finish. Technique is important. Keep in mind the 4 points that hold the cap. As you insert and pry, look to see if you are at a nub or right by one. Hubcaps get distorted or damaged from prying between the nubs where you're not doing much good

With hubcaps being so valuable and irreplaceable for me, I decided to start using a hubcap tool. This is your best bet. It's what's made to do the job and that's what it does. I've had zero issues using one of these

[71CHEVYSHORTBED402]

Not a silly question at all, I just installed these yesterday. I have all kinds of tools, but this one works well. Course I tape the wheel up first, two layers worth.

I'm new to hub caps, and perhaps it's just mine, but if you ask me the wheel was designed so there's a small gap around one of the nubs. Otherwise the cap fits flush to the wheel. I've found it easiest to install them with a little grease applied onto the nubs. Put the cap into position against the lower nubs, and give it "The Fonze: to pop it onto the top nubs.

[dooguy]

went with the Harbor Freight set up.(on sale for $4.99) I used first tool from left using the curled end. went around hub cap little by little. Seemed to work ok. I didn't see any damage. What a hassle. back in the day I bet they just ripped these things off without a second thought. tried to upload pic but having trouble.

thanks for all the input

[71CHEVYSHORTBED402]

Originally Posted by dooguy

went with the Harbor Freight set up.(on sale for $4.99) I used first tool from left using the curled end. went around hub cap little by little. Seemed to work ok. I didn't see any damage. What a hassle. back in the day I bet they just ripped these things off without a second thought. tried to upload pic but having trouble.

thanks for all the input

I bought the same thanks this thread, used the first tool's curled end as well, and it popped right off at one spot. Look for the nub providing a gap.

[Steeveedee]

I worked for a Chevy dealer right out of high school. Not denting hubcaps on a new car or truck was important, and not easy.

[cericd]

Originally Posted by Steeveedee

I worked for a Chevy dealer right out of high school. Not denting hubcaps on a new car or truck was important, and not easy.

What was the method/tool used there?

[Steeveedee]

Originally Posted by cericd

What was the method/tool used there?

My hands, and I had to be really careful, especially on the "baby moons" on the Chevelles, Camaros and Novas, in '71... or was it '72? It's been awhile.