StingrayL82 wrote:
TreeSeeker wrote:
What is the purpose of the locating pin? Especially since it is not being used in newer vehicles.
As it was explained to me by the old-timer tire guy from whom I got the new-to-me 16" wheels, it was to ensure that the wheel coins lined up correctly and also so that the valve stems were in the same location and the inner stem was easily accessible.
This explanation, especially in terms of valve stems, is the best I've heard so for.
The 'skirted' lug nuts in StingrayL82's picture have a conical indent that fits the outward coining. I like those lug nuts better than others you find on the same rims but both work equally well.
I think the fact companies are still putting the locating holes/slots in wheels is a case of "that's the way we've always done things." Some people have suggested the companies don't/didn't want to change the stamping dies. That doesn't make sense because that kind of tooling eventually wears out and needs replacing.
