Date:         Thu, 13 Jan 2011 08:19:26 -0800
Reply-To:     BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Stinkin' Audi Rims
Comments: To: J Stewart <fonman4277@COMCAST.NET>
In-Reply-To:  <652239116.1242170.1294924833803.JavaMail.root@sz0063a.westchester.pa.mail.comcast.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

You need a 'fly cutter' do the bores properly. I found one in the correct diameter range on eba. It's the same sort of tool machine shops use to open up VW engine cases to accept larger cylinders. At the very least, you need a proper drill press with a table large enough to accommodate your wheel size. The tires should be off the wheels for this operation.

I couldn't help you with shops in your area. One Listvendor, Burley, does them but he is in Santa Barbara, California. 

Fitting Audi factory alloys are not as trivial as many will have you believe. The added cost of machinework and the risk of inadequately load rated wheels can make a wheel made specifically for a Vanagon sound like a bargain. 


There are also aftermarket wheels made for the Audi and Mercedes which will just bolt on. For example, some models made by Borbet has a centering ring which can be removed by hand. No machinework. Just bolts right on.


BenT



On Jan 13, 2011, at 5:20 AM, J Stewart <fonman4277@COMCAST.NET> wrote:

> OK, I don't know why, I thought this would be fairly simple and fun, but it is turning into a royal PITA. I can't find a machine shop that will bore out the center hubs. As mentioned before, the first shop wants me to leave the van, I don't see the need and feel they are just trying to drive up the bill ( one listee told me he had this done and expect to pay 15-20 bucks a rim-well I am in the Washington DC area so I imagine double or even triple that amount-God I hate this area!) Two others have told me they "don't have the equipment". From what I read on this I assumed it was going to be no big deal, now I am ready to give up! Jeff
> 
> 
> 
> Jeff Stewart