Please Explain How to Install AMG Plastic Hub Cap in Open Position
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From: New Orleans. LA
amg C63s
Please Explain How to Install AMG Plastic Hub Cap in Open Position
Hi, I'm a new member of your forum having traded in my Porsche Macan Turbo for a used 2018 AMG C63s. I can't figure out what is the required 'open position' to install the plastic hub cap that covers the wheel lugs ('open position' is referred to in the owner's manual.) When not in this position the hub cap doesn't screw all the way down when tightening. I discovered this as the original owner didn't provide the wheel lug key for the locking lugs that came on the car, requiring removal of the hub cap to see what key fits. Even the dealer technician couldn't figure this one out. It was trial and error in both my attempt and the technician's until something went right and it finally bottomed out.
Last edited by mstraka; Aug 1, 2019 at 08:25 PM.
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2018 AMG GTR, 2017 GLS63, 2019 C63s
The key comes with a metal cap version that’s a circle. The standard cap is plastic and you can operate with hand. No key is offered for it. If you have the standard it should click to lock. The upgrade just tightens. I think the open position is the unlocked position so counter clockwise. Please clarify which kind you have.
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Joined: Jul 2019
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From: New Orleans. LA
amg C63s
Maybe I didn't explain well enough. The hub cap, as Mercedes calls it, seems it is made of plastic (maybe it is aluminum). Its round and covers the wheel lugs of the cross spoke 2018 AMG type wheel. When fitted it takes the plastic removal tool provided in the trunk to fit over it and with a 17mm socket on the removal tool you can remove it easily by unscrewing counter clockwise. Fitting it back on by screwing clockwise doesn't always work. It will go 80% of the way back on as it should, then stops tight without being seated. If I was to force it past this point something would break or strip with the force required. It takes several attempts, removing and attempting to tighten it before it seats completely in an easy manner without any problem experienced. This isn't just one wheel as I experienced it on another. It isn't cross threaded when starting to tighten it as it begins the clockwise turning easily. As I mention the Mercedes mechanic experienced the same problem I did, only after several attempts did it tighten completely in an easy manner. He didn't know why it took several attempts. Maybe there is some sort of alignment before you tighten the hub cap? The owner's manual isn't clear about what should be a simple tightening operation. On page 351 it says to install the hub cap, put the hub cap in position and turn it until it is in the right position. Right position, maybe right alignment? Position socket (removal tool?) on hub cap, attach lug wrench to socket and tighten hub cap.
Last edited by mstraka; Aug 2, 2019 at 04:13 AM.
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C63s, the good sounding one
When putting the “hub cap” back on, as it nears contact with the wheel, rotate the outer ring to allow it to align with the wheel opening that it will eventually fit into. It will turn independent of the center that the removal tool fits over. Being clean of debris and grit, along with a light coat of spray lubricant will also aid in allowing the center hub to seat correctly.
