Stuck budd wheel

[mytoys]

I tried taking off the front rim of my f450 today with no luck. It's a 97 that i just purchased so i'm assuming rusted on? What's the trick? I appreciate any help.

 

[Birdhunter1]

Loosen the lug nuts, not all the way off but about 1/8" away from teh rim. Then take a big sledge and wahck the tire in different spots and that may pop it off. You might also try spraying the area around the wheel studs down with Fluid film or something similar first but make sure not to get any on the brakes.

 

[George2615]

If the sledge hammer trick doesn't work you may have to apply heat with a torch around the center hub then try the hammer again.

 

[joe48]

If the sledge hammer trick doesn't work you may have to apply heat with a torch around the center hub then try the hammer again.

Bad idea, you stand the chance of ruining the heat treating of some of these components, especially the rim and studs, may also damage hub and bearings or seals. I don't rcommend it on a highway vehicle. on a tractor or manure spreader sure, done it many times.

As far as the sledge hammer trick, only as a last resort, you can damage the rim and cause a wobble that won't balance out.
I recommend soaking area with good penetrating fluid for a day or two, thenloosen lug nuts about 1/16" to 1/8" max, slowly drive back and forth and tap the brakes. Only once has this not worked for me, and you won't damage wheel or hub as long as you stop as soon as you feel the wheel pop loose, then tighten up lugs and go back to shop. good luck.

 

[mytoys]

All,

Thanks so much for your responses. I used the loosen 1/16" and apply brakes trick, worked great. I still had to whack the tire to break it loose once i had it jacked up. Thanks again!