Halibrand Replica Pre-order; Avanti, Hawks & Larks

[wckrueger]

I have but one regret - I didn't order Real Rodders Halibrand replicas while they were in stock. OKay, I may have a few other regrets - none associated with my '63 R1 Avanti. Over the past month or so, I've had numerous conversations with Pat O'Brien at Real Rodders Wheels (805.402.2212 -- and yes, he does answer and return phone calls). He's approaching the point where he'll make another - and probably final - run of Halibrand replicas updated for radial tires. Pat tells me his run will be limited to those for which he has pre-orders. My only interest in this post is passing on his contact info - pricing, delivery, options can only come from Pat. With a little poking around, if interested, one can find recommendations/referrals from past customers. I hope to be one. Currently, I am not.

Replica wheels have been updated for radials and may have other applications.

My only interest in this post is in getting a set of these wheels on my car. My car is the one shown below with Studebaker wheel covers/hub caps - not the R2 that is so-equipped.

[Dwight FitzSimons]

I have a set on my '64 Avanti and am pleased with them--very high quality. If another run is made I will order a set or two. Hey--you live only once!
-Dwight

[Randy Bohannon]

So will I. - Randy

[00RACER]

What is the price for a set?

[Dwight FitzSimons]

The price several years ago was $350/each + shipping + $50/each for the spinners (from Jon Myer). What the price is now I don't know. Probably higher now.
-Dwight

[dansct444]

Just ordered my set today. It'll take about 6 month since he's still taking orders.

[StudeRich]

Just ordered my set today. It'll take about 6 month since he's still taking orders.

There MUST be a WHOLE LOT MORE to this Story!

Like: how close are we to the Goal?

[Dan White]

I ordered a set back 8 mo. ago and have heard nothing. He supposedly was about 4 sets short then, so I don't believe anything at this point. There has not been an ad in the TW for several months now as well.

[StudeRich]

Well all it takes is a Phone Call to him, I am sure Pat is too busy with other projects to call everyone back, and there is nothing new to say.

So 30 Min. ago I did just that!

Pat is still "in the process" and believes it will happen, just not knowing exactly when at this time.
And yes, New tooling does have to be made, which is the reason for needing a Lot of commitments.

My concern was quickly answered; the "Deal" is, to "Order" all you do is put up a Credit Card, not to be charged until it happens. I don't see that as a problem.

But another concern of mine is, I am not a "believer" in these Halibrand 3 Bar spinner "Knockoffs", so I need a plain replacement center Cap and only ONE pricey type is available that fits the odd center, a lot of "CASO's" would probably not want to spend about $435.00 a set.

Sounds like a Great Guy, who understands the business AND the Non-Market for specialty items like these.

[stude1964]

I got a set from Pat and am very satisfied. He is a great guy to work with and was true to his word. Gave me great advice on payment and shipping.
Rob in PA.

[StudeRich]

I got a set from Pat and am very satisfied. He is a great guy to work with and was true to his word. Gave me great advice on payment and shipping.
Rob in PA.

So you are saying you got yours Many MONTHS ago from the prior, Original Mfg. from the First run?

[stude1964]

Yes StudeRich I had my name on the waiting list. Pat called me as a set became available from one of his builds. We also discussed the next run as he said the original tooler had retired. I've passed his contact info on to numerous folks who saw my '64 Avanti with them on-even non-Stude as some Ford , AMC and Mopar owners could mount them!
Rob in PA.

[Bellingham Studenut]

Rich, I just asked Santa to put me on his list for a set of those wheels with some other items.
Will find out soon if I'm on the right (nice) list.

James

[Bellingham Studenut]

Guess I was on the nice list this year!

James

[tsenecal]

Sometimes it REALLY pays to be nice. Lucky you!