When it comes to classic American muscle cars, one of the most iconic aftermarket wheel brands that come to mind has to be Cragar. For decades, car aficionados have slapped shiny Cragar wheels onto all manner of hot rods, customs, and performance vehicles to turn heads and stand out from the crowd. However, with the sheer number of wheel options out there today, it can be tough to spot the real deal of Cragar wheels versus cheap knockoffs or wheels made by other companies.
In this blog post, I’ll dive into how to identify Cragar wheels. By the end, you’ll be an expert in telling the difference between the real McCoy and a fraudulent set of wheels pretending to be something they’re not. Let’s get started!
Why is It Important to Identify Cragar Wheels?
1 . To Ensure Authenticity
If you’re a collector, purist, or just appreciate authenticity in your classic vehicle, it’s important to have genuine Cragar wheels on your ride. Anything else is simply not the real deal. Also, many classic car shows and competitions require that all parts be as close to the original as possible, including the wheels.
2 . To Maintain Quality and Durability
One of the main reasons Cragar has become such an iconic brand is due to its high-quality construction and durability. By verifying that you have authentic Cragar wheels on your vehicle, you ensure that your wheels can stand up to the demands of daily driving and car shows for decades to come. Knockoffs may look similar, but they don’t have the same level of craftsmanship or materials used in their construction.
3 . To Get the Best Performance
Cragar wheels are designed with performance in mind, whether it’s on the drag strip, on a track day, or just cruising down the highway. By using authentic Cragar wheels, you can be sure that you’re getting the best performance possible from your classic vehicle.
4 . To Avoid Safety Risks
While knockoff wheels may save you a few bucks, they also come with safety risks. Cheaply-made wheels can have defects or flaws that compromise their structural integrity and put you at risk while driving. Cragar wheels, on the other hand, are known for their strength and safety.
5 . To Protect Your Investment
If you’ve invested time, money, and effort into restoring a classic vehicle or customizing it with aftermarket parts, it only makes sense to protect that investment by ensuring all parts – including the wheels – are authentic and of high quality. By identifying your Cragar wheels, you can be confident that you’re preserving the value of your ride for years to come.
13 Tips on How to Identify Cragar Wheels
1 . Check the Label
The easiest way to identify Cragar wheels is by looking for the Cragar logo on the wheel itself. Most authentic Cragar wheels will have their iconic crossed flags logo somewhere on the center cap or spoke of the wheel.
2 . Look at the Back of the Wheel
Authentic Cragar wheels will often have a part number, date code, and Cragar logo stamped on the back of the wheel. This is a surefire way to verify that you’re dealing with the real deal. Also, keep in mind that Cragar doesn’t put their name on the front of the wheel, so if you see a wheel with “Cragar” spelled out across the face, it’s likely a fake.
3 . Check for Castings Numbers
Many original Cragar wheels will have casting numbers stamped into them. These can help verify that the wheels are authentic and can also provide information on the wheel’s production date and size.
4 . Look for Specific Styles
Cragar has produced many iconic wheel styles over the years, so familiarizing yourself with these styles can help you quickly identify them. Some popular Cragar styles include the S/S Super Sport, Keystone Classic, Eliminator Series, and Street Pro.
5 . Pay Attention to the Center Cap
Authentic Cragar wheels will have a specific style for their center caps, including the iconic crossed flags logo or their “C” monogram. If you see a wheel with a different style center cap, it’s likely not an original Cragar wheel.
6 . Research Wheel Sizes
Cragar wheels come in a variety of sizes, from 14-inch up to 22-inch. Knowing the different size options can help you identify authentic Cragar wheels.
7 . Know Your Bolt Patterns
Cragar wheels have specific bolt patterns that may vary depending on the model and year of production. Knowing these bolt patterns can help you identify if a wheel is truly a Cragar or not.
8 . Look at the Finish
Authentic Cragar wheels typically have a chrome finish, which is known for its mirror-like shine. If you come across a set of wheels that claim to be Cragar but have a different finish, it’s likely not genuine.
9 . Check for Authenticity Certificates
Some Cragar wheels may come with an authenticity certificate, which can help verify that they are genuine. Keep an eye out for these if you’re purchasing used Cragar wheels. Also, note that some newer Cragar wheels may also come with a barcode sticker on the back for verification.
10 . Study Pictures
If you’re shopping online and don’t have access to see the wheels in person, carefully study the pictures provided by the seller. Look for any discrepancies or signs of fakery. Also, compare the pictures to images of authentic Cragar wheels for reference.
11 . Ask for Documentation
If you’re purchasing used Cragar wheels from a seller, ask if they have any documentation or proof of authenticity. This can include original receipts, packaging, or even a letter from the previous owner certifying that they are genuine Cragars.
12 . Buy from Reputable Sellers
To avoid falling victim to knockoff Cragar wheels, make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. Look for sellers with positive reviews and a history of selling authentic Cragar wheels.
13 . When in Doubt, Ask an Expert
If you’re still unsure about the authenticity of your Cragar wheels, don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert or join online forums dedicated to classic cars and Cragar wheels. Oftentimes, experienced enthusiasts can provide valuable insights and help you verify the authenticity of your wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Purchasing Cragar Wheels Online?
When purchasing Cragar wheels online, it’s important to do your research and buy from reputable sellers. Look for pictures of the back of the wheel, ask for documentation if possible, and compare the images to authentic Cragar wheels.
Are There Any Common Signs That Indicate a Wheel Is Not an Authentic Cragar?
Some common signs that a wheel is not an authentic Cragar include misspelled or incorrect branding, a different center cap style, and a non-chrome finish. Additionally, if the seller does not have any documentation or proof of authenticity, it’s best to be cautious.
Can I Identify Cragar Wheels Based on Their Style Alone?
While familiarizing yourself with popular Cragar wheel styles can help in the identification process, it’s not always a reliable method. Many knockoff wheels attempt to replicate Cragar styles, so it’s important to also check for other identifying markers such as the logo and back of the wheel.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Cragar Wheels Are Not Authentic?
If you have doubts about the authenticity of your Cragar wheels, consider reaching out to an expert or joining online forums for classic cars and Cragar wheels. You can also contact Cragar directly for assistance in verifying the authenticity of your wheels.
Are There Any Additional Ways to Verify the Authenticity of My Cragar Wheels?
In addition to checking for the logo, back of the wheel stamping, and specific styles, you can also check for casting numbers and research wheel sizes and bolt patterns. Some older Cragar wheels may also come with an authenticity certificate or barcode for verification.
What Should I Look for When Inspecting Used Cragar Wheels?
When inspecting used Cragar wheels, it’s important to check for any signs of wear or damage, as well as verify the authenticity through the previously mentioned methods. It’s also a good idea to ask the seller about the history and origin of the wheels.
Are Cragar Wheels Only Available in Chrome Finish?
While chrome finish is typically associated with Cragar wheels, they have been produced in other finishes such as black, machined, and polished aluminum. However, if you come across a set of Cragar wheels with an unusual finish, it’s best to verify their authenticity through other methods.
Overall, the most important thing to remember when trying to identify Cragar wheels is to be thorough and check for multiple identifying markers rather than relying on one method alone.
Conclusion
Now you know how to identify Cragar wheels, you can ensure that your classic vehicle has the best quality wheels. Remember to always check for the iconic Cragar logo, specific wheel styles, casting numbers, and authentic center caps when verifying the authenticity of your wheels.
By following these tips and purchasing from reputable sellers, you can guarantee that your Cragar wheels are genuine and will provide you with top performance, safety, and protection for your investment. Happy cruising!