What are these two bolts?

Bill-
It looks like they are bolts used to hold the drum on the hub when the wheel is off. I should think you could safely remove them, then mount wheel. It looks like a rear drive axle, maybe a Ford?

I just took out the bolts and the new wheels went on fine. Thanks for the tip!

Thank you! Thank you! You just made my day! I was worrying that I was not going to be able to use the new 16" wheels I just bought from Stockton Wheel.

I have sent them back to Stockton to increase the wheel offset a little. I want the look to be correct. I am bringing the wheels in a little. My Cord has always had a wider stance than the real McCoy.

AGAIN ... THANKS FOR YOUR INSIGHT! I AM A HAPPY GUY.

Bill
Those 2 bolts are only there to hold the brake drum in place when the tire and wheel are off, you can take them out if you want. You will see when you unscrew them, that they only about a half inch long. When the tire and wheel are in place these are not needed. on many cars they are counter sunk screws, which you could do if you are nervous about leaving them out.
Ken Clark

Does anyone know why these two bolts are in my rear drums? They are interfering with the new 16" wheels that I am trying to use. I have not tried to remove them or cut them off yet.



Here is what happens when I try to put on the new wheels:



My old 15" wheels worked because there were raised areas that the bolts could fit under: