Re: [T3] Rader Wheels

[MessyM911@aol.com]

In a message dated 1/7/02 3:30:54 PM Eastern Standard Time, parkkj@crd.ge.com 
writes:

Those Rader wheels that everyone is paying gobs of money for... Why?

For what it is worth, here is my two-cents.

Everett is correct, rarity.  Anything in short supply (probably because many 
of them cracked as you mentioned below) will cost more to own.
 
 I talked to a guy today who bought a set for his bug back in the 60's from 
our local Sears store, he
 was very surprized when I told him that they were fetching megabucks today.  
His experience with them included having to exchange several as they kept on 
cracking, he finally tossed the whole set before he sold the Bug.

Cracking is indeed a common occurrence of the Rader wheel.  The two piece 
construction of aluminum centers riveted to steel outer rings, just does hold 
up too well.  I wouldn't suggest racing with a set of Raders. 
 
So, were these indeed mass-marketed through Sears stores or were they selling 
an exclusive line through the sears stores?

Not sure, it is my understanding that these wheel only manufactured in 1966 
and 1967.  The new Randar wheels are knock off of the Sear style Rader.  
Although it is not common knowledge, I've been informed by a very reliable 
source that the Randar wheels have not been officially approved by the DOT 
for use on daily driver vehicles.  These wheels have been categorized as 
novelty wheels are approved for use on show cars.  I understand these wheels 
are probably safer than the original Raders; however, I wouldn't suggest 
racing with a set of them either.
 
It seems odd to me that since you can get basically any design your heart 
desires today through the aftermarket, that these old, seemingly mass marketed
 wheels that had design "issues" are fetching the big bucks today?  is it 
soley the EMPI ties??

The tie to EMPI definitely increases the cost of any old school item.  I 
personally own a set of the EMPI Raders and I love the look of them.  I am 
one of those guys who paid big buck to own a set, and I haven't regretted the 
purchase for one minute.  Of all the rare items I've installed on my car, the 
Raders seem to attract the most attention. Aside from the attention getting 
aspect, it's not everyday you see an old Vdub rollin on a set of Raders.    
 
Marvin
www.xaden.freeservers.com
64 RHD Notchback
65 LHD Notchback (under restoration)

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