Hub Cap Lug Nut Question

[mikey00]

I noticed that when I tighten the plastic lug nuts that keep the hub cap on, they reach a certain point then release. Almost as if they were stripped. Nothing looks like it is stripped. I am wondering if they are designed to work that way so you can't over tighen them or if I have a real problem most likely caused by the impact wrench happy animals at the tire shop. Anyone else notice this?

[Raven]

Yes, that's the way they're made. I use my steelies with hubcaps in the winter. What I do is tighten them until they release and then snug them to just before the release point. I find you get fewer rattles that way.

[altimar]

I think they were made to be only hand-tightened. I never even tried using a wrench on them. Yours may be stripped, but they'll probably be fine unless you like hitting potholes at insane speeds.

[northvibe]

yup sounds like if you over tighten them they get pushed back out a turn (thread). Do what raven does or until they are tight (right before "release".)

[joatmon]

I do that all the time.Quote, originally posted by Raven »Yes, that's the way they're made. I use my steelies with hubcaps in the winter. What I do is tighten them until they release and then snug them to just before the release point. I find you get fewer rattles that way.I agree (except I'm year round on steelies&covers)

[mikey00]

Thanks guys. It's good to know that nothing is stripped on mine and it is working as designed. Actually, I guess it's a good idea. It keeps some tire guy with an impact wrench from stripping out your plastic lug nut.