Need help!is it ok to drive with no center caps?

[becker69]

I wanted to know if it is OK to do a trail ride (the AZ run) without center caps on my wheels (they are American eagles with an exposed center)? I am obviously concerned about the hubs being exposed without a cap to keep crud out.... But I am not anticipating any creek crossings either. Reason is, I am running late and don't know if I will have the time to get the lugs and caps put on, before driving out. Thanks for any help.

 

[rpenner54]

I don't run with them on. I took them off almost as soon as I got the truck. In fact I think I tossed them a long time ago. I don't even know where they are... LOL

 

[Dan Whitaker]

The center caps are not going to help keep water or crud out of the hub area. That is what the front wheel bearing and hub seals are for.

 

[Robert]

Yup, center caps are for looks. You don't need them to go off-road.

 

[becker69]

Oh well, at least I know how much of a bonehead I am!! Late Fri. I spent $53 for 20 shiny little lug nutz and 4 center caps (they do look pretty nice though). The cool thing was, the guys at the shop took off my "brake clips".... these little star shaped washers (almost) that were around 1 stud on each corner. I guess it turns out that when we put my new wheels on, we should have removed those, because the new wheel doesn't have a built in groove like my OEM ones did. So at least that was cool :frustrate