Turns out the problem was a bit of Ontario rust on the hubs PLUS a bit of crust in the alloy center bores.
Here they are actually on the car:
Initial driving impressions:
1) I love the change. An 8% gearing difference is definitely noticeable to an eco-driver.
2) The car rolls a LOT easier & farther compared to the snow tires that were on there. Combination of lower rolling resistance and more rotating mass. Not sure what the r.r. difference would be to the stock LRR Dunlop Enasaves though.
3) I just need to calibrate the ScanGauge for the speedometer/odometer change
4) Also need to streamline the wheels. Air blenders! Wheel discs in their future. These are the same wheels as are on the back of the MPGiata, so I'll only need to make a pair.