Split Rims on the IIA - History, Experiences?

[caperover]

Never knew what I had until I tried to find them on line.

Looks like my 66 Series IIA FFR has split rims. I thought they were new replacements that a prior owner had put on.
Once I degreased them, they look fairly clean. Not sure if they've had a paint job, but they've been withstanding leaking wheel clyinders without a lot of damage to the paint.

So - are these likely original to the vehicle?

Does anyone sell them any more? A fast look through RN didn't show anything.

Any experiences with them?
Are they dependable, pain in the ass?
Do shops charge more for dealing with them?

If you look close you can see the tread separating on the tire - time for a replacement.



Roger Bowker
Cape Cod

[roverp480]

I have a Army User Handbook dated 1964 which mentions divided rim wheels on 88" vehicle , but just refers to "when fitted" without stating exactly which contracts it applies . Tire Shops in UK where I am don't like them at all. Tubes ,flaps and too many bolts!

[mearstrae]

Split rims are considered dangerous to work with. You will pay more to have them serviced, if you can find anyone willing to take on the job. I've had experience with split rims in the military and on an old Ford truck I had and they are bad news. I don't know anything about the Land Rover split rims, but I expect they are no different. Just a note: People have been injured and also killed dealing with split rims using improper equipment. "IF" divided Land Rover rims are the same as actual split rims...

[Myron]

@anyone in particular, what is the supposed advantage? Strength?

@caperover, I like your tires, but I can't see what they are. Can you add some info about them please?

Thanks,

Myron

[roverp480]

I believe the main advantage is you can remove the tires with only a wrench. no heaving the tyre over the rim with levers. .

[mearstrae]

OK, I (Finally...) looked at the drawings for Land Rover divided rims (DUH!). They are NOT conventional Commercial split rims.

[caperover]

Here's a very over exposed shot of a sidewall.
The tire sidewalls indicate Michelin 4x4 XPC 205/80 R16 104T M+S reinforced tubeless

I assume the DOT code means these were mfg in (gaaak) 1973
i.e. a day older than dirt.

[roverp480]

| am certain the 4x4 XPC wasn't available as early as 1973 there must be another 4 digit DOT code somewhere on the sidewall

[cedryck]

Very few, if any, tire places today will touch them, too dangerous. I think they are more of less for the pure-ist, who want them for a complete and authentic restoration project. I have one, don't know what to do with it.