To get an idea how artillery wheels were made review the repair info on Calimers Wheel Shop
http://www.calimerswheelshop.com/
Originally the wheels were made of kiln dried hickory. As Frank stated the spokes were milled and assembled into place, then the center hole cut, the steel hubs were press fitted into place, and then the wood was allowed to absorb moisture to further swell and tighten. (Extremely Strong Wheel - Artillery Grade)
If you can easily remove the spokes your wheels should probably be rebuilt. As Frank said, if you do take them apart make sure you number the spokes so as to install them in the exact same position relative to the felloe that they were removed from.
My two cents, Chet...
http://www.calimerswheelshop.com/
Originally the wheels were made of kiln dried hickory. As Frank stated the spokes were milled and assembled into place, then the center hole cut, the steel hubs were press fitted into place, and then the wood was allowed to absorb moisture to further swell and tighten. (Extremely Strong Wheel - Artillery Grade)
If you can easily remove the spokes your wheels should probably be rebuilt. As Frank said, if you do take them apart make sure you number the spokes so as to install them in the exact same position relative to the felloe that they were removed from.
My two cents, Chet...