SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Stock OEM wheel broker Acker Wheel has liquidated its assets after nearly four decades in business.

Founded by Jim Acker as "Acker Tire and Rubber Works" in the 1970s, the business has been owned by Doug Alton since 1986. Acker changed its focus to just wheels and few tires in 1981 and was renamed Acker Wheel. The business was also known as Acker Wheel-Stock Wheels Only.

Competitor 1-800EveryRim.com, owned by Billy Eordekian, has acquired some assets of the Acker Wheel business, specifically the 1-800 9Wheels phone number and Acker’s customer list.

Commenting on the sale, owner Alton said, “I have other business interests and I will spend more time with my family. Also, I will get more into my hobby as a falconer. My ranch is home to about 50 birds of prey including a Golden Eagle.”

“Doug’s customer list fits right in with ours, as of course we both cater to tire stores, collision centers and auto recyclers,” said Eordekian.

Commenting on the friendly competition between he and Alton over the years, Eordekian added, “One of my favorite things about attending NACE and the TIA/SEMA Show is to spend time with my competitors. I always remember Doug at the SEMA show with his eagle necklace, eagle T shirt and his unstoppable enthusiasm.”