so Steve, After all this, on brand new, currently reproduced 7” rims and the new, currently reproduced centers, what should the backspacing be to accurately duplicate the “ledge” providing the 1970 WG “look”?
I don't believe the centers are reproduced, just rechromed. If they are reproduced I could not tell you which style the copied. Either way you most likely would want around 4 1/2" to 4 5/8" back space. Because the surface on the front of the rim shell where the valve stem is placed is more square to the wheel, the center needs to be moved outward making the back space deeper. Look at Jim's photos and see how that surface is angled on an original wheel verses the repo shell. Thanks JJ for posting the photos.