Anyone use these? Do they really help lessen the chance of damaging wheel finish when taking on/off lugs? Are they worth the extra cost?

Some examples:







"Used throughout Japan by many race organizations, these are extremely lightweight and strong. The special feature of this open ended lug nut is the two-piece design which allows the lug to spin freely from its tapered centering ring. This allows for a much tighter and snug fit, and will keep you from stripping the paint from your wheels during installation and removal. For added security, these lug nuts can only be removed using the included wrench adapter."

Not sure about the Project Kics R26/R40?

 

Yes, the two piece design does help protect your wheel finish and also prevents the lug from seizing to the wheel.

I highly recommend Mcgard spline lugs if you want high quality with an affordable price. They steel plate their lugs which is an extremely durable finish and will not chip/flake like a painted or anodized lug. Also they feature a two piece design which protects your wheel finish and provides an even torque. I've owned many sets and installed many sets of lugs and Mcgard is still my favorite.




-Dan

 

+1 on the McGard, I have the exact ones above on my wheels, they seem to work well, even on my stock wheels the paint has not come off at the lug holes.