William R Weckman

US Patent:

20030155804, Aug 21, 2003

Filed:

Feb 5, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/358930

Inventors:

William Weckman - Granite City IL, US
William Keehler - Granite City IL, US
Fredrick French - Eden Prairie MN, US

International Classification:

B60B007/04

US Classification:

301/037280

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for protecting a brake assembly resident behind a wheel disposed on a vehicle is disclosed herein. A wheel insert and a combination wheel and wheel insert are disclosed to cover and protect the brake assembly resident behind the wheel. The wheel insert fits into an aperture in the wheel with the edge surface engaging the aperture snugly. The wheel insert and a front surface of the wheel are aligned horizontally where they are joined. Fasteners extend through apertures in the wheel insert and extend into orifices in the wheel to secure the wheel insert into the aperture. The method includes applying a sealant to each wheel insert and each aperture surface and fitting the wheel insert into the aperture. The wheel insert is then fastened to the wheel by inserting fasteners into reciprocating orifices in the wheel. After the sealant sets, the wheel is secured the axle of a vehicle, such that the brake assembly resides behind the wheel is covered and protected from damage. A method for reducing aerodynamic drag produced by a rotating wheel is also disclosed herein.