Replacement Wheel for 1960s patio door

Quick Learner from Erie, pA

Jul 5, 2019 9:22 pm

Our patio door has a single long assembly that fits up into the bottom of the door. There is a single wheel as shown in the photo near each end. The wheels are marked Kilian and Syracuse, NY. They are 1-1/4" OD and 1/4" wide. They have a 1/4" ID center hole. They are nylon and have a flat outer surface (not concave).

Do you have any wheels which might work?

1 user uploaded image

6 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 11, 2019 1:55 pm

We carry replacement patio door wheels by themselves. You may be able to use one of our kits to work in your door, though since yours is so old there are no guarantees. See our 81-266 and let me know what you think.

Quick Learner from Erie, pA

Jul 11, 2019 10:02 pm

Thanks. That's interesting. The original wheels are flat, not concave. What difference does this make? Also the original wheels were nylon, not metal. What difference does this make?

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 12, 2019 10:19 am

Ah, that will be a problem. The edge of the wheel, be it concave or flat, will affect what kind of track it's able to roll on.

As for steel vs nylon, this isn't quite as important. Steel wheels are stronger while nylon wheels hold up better against corrosion. Nylon wheels are also kinder to the track.

All that aside, if you have flat wheels then we don't have anything in our inventory that will work. They don't really make doors like this anymore. Your best bet may be a local mom and pop type shop who might still carry older parts. Sorry that we can't be of more help.

Quick Learner from Erie, pA

Jul 12, 2019 11:48 am

Thanks for your assistance!

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 15, 2019 8:43 am

I'm happy to help, of course. I'm just sorry that we couldn't get you a closer match.