OldIHC

Does anyone know of a shop that can remanufacture wheels and tires for my 1917 Model F? The truck was originally equipped with solid tires and I could probably clean them up for reuse. However, the wood spokes and felloes are rotten. (Sad emoji)
I am considering going to pneumatic tires as it was an option for that year ($50 more). But, I’m doing my best to keep it original as delivered. Your thoughts?

dave@engelscoachshop.com
This guy has his shop in Joliet, Montana, USA. He builds wood wheels. I have subscribed to his You Tube channel Engel's Coach Shop. If Dave cannot do your wheels, I am confident he will be able to recommend another skilled shop.

Send George Kirkham an email about his 1917 Model F. He restored one of these models, as well as a lot of others. If you go his IH truck dealer website, you can email George thou his website. Southland International of out Lethbridge Alberta.

info@oldinternationaltrucks.com

I agree with the suggestion about Engel's Coach Shop. I first learned of his craftsmanship when he was building the borax wagons. I went to the WAAM museum in Hood River, Or, where he had built some wheels for an everybody's car. Can't go wrong if you can get him to do them.

https://youtu.be/pcbRDdx6894

Dave Engel has decided to not make any more wood wheels. He says, in the video, he sold that part of his business to a person who learned the trade from the Engel Coach Shop. Watch the video, Everything you need to know is there.

Great content on Engel’s channel. I’ve been watching him work his magic on wagons and wheels for some time. Very relaxing and educational. I see he is making some changes. Change is good.
I’ll contact the folks at Kirkham for advice on wheels. Thanks for the responses.

Stutzman wheel works. They built 2 front wheels for my 1920 model K. Keep the hard rubber tires. Noah Stutzman 330 897 1391

Hello fellow binders,
Last year I was fortunate enough to acquire an all-original 1917 Model F 1-ton truck from it's original family. Unfortunately, while loading the truck onto the trailer, one of the front solid rubber tires came loose from the cast rim. Dave Richards, owner of Overman Cushion Tire Co. in Canton, OH provided me a quote for new 3-1/2" solid rubber steer tires and 4" solid rubber drive tires; however I would really like to keep the original ones if at all possible. Has anyone ever had the originals pressed back onto the rims and if so, do they typically stay or once they become loose do they need to be replaced. Appreciate any and all advise.

I would love to see a photo of your truck. Curious about the woodwork and color. I’m doing a full restoration on my 1917 Model F and am lacking dimensions for the seat structure.

My wheels and tires are in South Dakota being rebuilt. They will receive fresh vulcanized solid rubber. It sounds like yours might need a similar repair? I’m not a tire man, but if the rubber has delaminated from the steel rim I would say new vulcanized rubber would be the correct repair.

Hansen Wheel and Wagon Shop is taking good care of me. They have a nice website and are easily contacted. I would send them an email with photos of your situation.

Good luck on your project.

- Tim Akin

"TimAkin" I just saw this post. I've been kind of consumed with work and some other activities around the house.

I would love to have you come see the truck in person. However would be glad to send as many pictures of the truck, its woodwork and what's left of its color.

I have to admit that I have been awestruck with the job you're doing on the full restoration of your great-grandfather's 917 Model F.

I still haven't made it to the wheels yet but probably should get started on them. I'm probably going to need fresh vulcanized solid rubber too. Bummer because as you know I am trying hard to maintain its originality to include the wheels.

Please keep in touch on your project and how I might be of help with pictures or dimensions.

Good luck on your project.

Kerry Snapp

- Tim Akin[/quote]