Thanks for all the great input guys!!
Originally Posted by
dabac
Please clarify, as that shouldn't/can't happen.
Since all spokes are pulling IN with considerable force, a rim in a built-up Wheel is under Heavy compression.
The seam should be pulled shut.
If it's a pinned rim, not all ends are equally nicely finished. Sometimes there's a visible edge and/or a tiny partial gap.
If it's a welded rim I suppose it's POSSIBLE to get a crack in the weld.
I'd expect it to be followed by a flat spot or something though unless the welder messed up thoroughly.
Where the two ends meet, it is indeed welded. I'm told on the inside of the rim there is about a 1" piece of metal that overlaps the joint and is welded into place. This 1" piece of metal has detached itself from one side. LBS tells me it's fairly typical and has seen this several times with this particular wheelset.
Matt