Steel vs Aluminum wheels

[f6bits]

My wheels are ugly, but strong, I suppose. I have the white steel 14” wheels, but envy those with the aluminum wheels. I’ve read some concerns about aluminum wheels not holding up well to sharp turns’ lateral forces.

Are aluminum trailer wheels *that* prone to cracking? I think I’d rather buy them new just so I don’t have to worry about past abuse. Any good sources for wheels? I’ve already checked out trailer-wheels.com and etrailer.

[jje1960]

Originally Posted by sdayman

My wheels are ugly, but strong, I suppose. I have the white steel 14” wheels, but envy those with the aluminum wheels. I’ve read some concerns about aluminum wheels not holding up well to sharp turns’ lateral forces.

Are aluminum trailer wheels *that* prone to cracking? I think I’d rather buy them new just so I don’t have to worry about past abuse. Any good sources for wheels? I’ve already checked out trailer-wheels.com and etrailer.

While I've heard there was some warranty issues with the aluminum wheels, I've inspected ours and found no cracks to date. Have heard problems with brand new steel wheels flaking paint and rusting as well. I personally love the aluminum, they clean very easily and in MHO look better.

[Jim W]

I am in the process of buying new tires for my 5er; I am buying 5 Michelins LT245/75R16 LRE XPS RIBS. I have asked for tire price quotations from two suppliers of tires and rims for campers. I asked for the price with steel wheels and aluminum wheel, these are to be mounted and balanced. The quoted price for the aluminum wheel came back almost $50 more per wheel than the steel wheel. To me I can spend this $250 on something else other than pretty wheels.
Jim W

[trucker LOU]

I dressed up my white steel wheels with stainless "beauty rings" and adapted Ford ranger hub caps.

[jje1960]

Originally Posted by Jim W

I am in the process of buying new tires for my 5er; I am buying 5 Michelins LT245/75R16 LRE XPS RIBS. I have asked for tire price quotations from two suppliers of tires and rims for campers. I asked for the price with steel wheels and aluminum wheel, these are to be mounted and balanced. The quoted price for the aluminum wheel came back almost $50 more per wheel than the steel wheel. To me I can spend this $250 on something else other than pretty wheels.
Jim W

I hear you Jim, they are more expensive. However, they are easier to take care of and that extra $200 (don't need aluminum on spare) may be worth it for some in the long run, considering paint and maintenance. Anyway, agree if they don't come on the unit, it's definitely an added cost, that's for sure.

[Retired_Jim]

Yea, but the aluminum sure looks good and they might make a difference in a quicker resale when the time is right. My wheels are two years old with no cracking issues. As already mentioned, with a frequent polishing they do not attract or hold dirt making washing a breeze.