David,
I never thought I would own a Truck like this also. Just happened. Be prepared!
Bored&Stroked,
I started with a 5 inch strip of flat stock. I set two heavy metal saw horses about 4 inches apart. Spanned the gap with the steel. Picked up the 2 lb hammer and went to work "blacksmithing" a ring of steel. I calculated the length, but left the stock just little longer for trimming. I have done three sets like this for new tires. Most of the rims also had some rust out due to calcium leakage.
I met with friend Chuck a old school mechanic that felt all the wheel components will be able to be used. But he did suggest a added safety precaution. That would be to weld a nut or spacer on each side of the split on the lock rings. Then add a bolt to draw the lock ring into the home position. while airing up with chains and or cage. I have a little more clean up to do the assure the groove in the wheel is clean. I will start to look at that feature.
So At this point I am more confident to go ahead with the rim cleaning.
Regards,
Chris