DWeikert wrote:
Just wanted to inject a word of caution regarding use of lubricants on the mating surfaces. Between the wheel and center hub shouldn't cause a problem, but between the wheel and the mating surface behind the wheel could. Keep in mind that it is the friction between those two surfaces created by the clamping force of the lugs that allows the wheel to carry the rated load. Doing anything to reduce this friction will have an affect on the load carrying ability of the wheel. You may never have any problems, but it's difficult to say just how much you're reducing your load carrying ability. Also, be very careful if you use antisieze or something similar on the lugs since friction is a major component in the torque. Reducing friction but using the same torque can significantly increase the axial force. Change the friction by 10% and you can get a 100% change in bolt tension with the same setting on the torque wrench. See the table at the bottom of this page. If you use antisieze on the lugs, be sure to apply it only to the threads and not the nut/wheel mating surface.
Aye, this is why I simply suggested a wood block a sledge hammer, protect the rim, but allow for the thumping the rust seal will need to break loose.
I always keep a tool box in the truck, so there's always wood blocks and a sledge handy along with a number of other tools needed to do any emergency roadside repairs (within reason).
