Introduction
In this episode of “I Never Knew,” we will be discussing Bolt Pattern 101. Many customers have reached out to us confused about bolt patterns, so we want to provide a quick rundown on the topic. We will explore different wheel styles and explain what bolt patterns are and what you can expect when you receive your wheels and tires.
Understanding Bolt Patterns
When you visit the Custom Offsets website and browse through the wheels, you will notice that each wheel has a specific bolt pattern mentioned in red at the bottom. For example, if you have a Chevy 1500, you might see “6x5.5” highlighted. Additionally, you may also see “6x135” selected. This indicates that the wheel is dual drilled and has both 5-lug and 6-lug patterns. It allows the manufacturer to sell the same wheel to different vehicles, saving time and money. For instance, this dual drilled wheel will fit both Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s.
Ordering the Right Bolt Patterns
A common misconception is that customers receive the wrong wheels because they ordered based on inches instead of millimeters or vice versa. For example, a Chevy 1500 has a bolt pattern of 6x5.5 inches, but it may also be listed as 6x139.7 millimeters. Similarly, Ford’s bolt pattern of 6-lug is listed as 6x135 instead of 6x5.3 inches. Manufacturers use inches or millimeters interchangeably for ease of understanding and to differentiate between the two patterns. In the case of Ford’s 8-lug pattern, it may be listed as 8x170 without an equivalent in inches. However, these differences in measurements do not affect the compatibility of the wheels with the vehicles.
Measuring Bolt Patterns
To measure your bolt pattern accurately, you need to follow a simple process. Let’s consider a dual 5-lug pattern as an example. You measure the distance from the center of the far right corner to the center of the far across corner. In this case, if the measurement is 5.5 inches, it means the bolt pattern is 5x5.5 inches. Similarly, if the measurement is 150 millimeters, it signifies a bolt pattern of 5x150 millimeters. This measurement method helps you understand the bolt pattern of your vehicle accurately.
Covered Center Caps vs. Exposed Lug Nuts
Some wheels come with covered center caps, while others have exposed lug nuts. The choice between them depends on the manufacturer and the wheel type. Most wheels you see will have covered center caps, concealing the lug nuts. However, exposed lug nuts are becoming popular in newer wheel designs, giving them a unique and edgy look. American Force wheels, for example, have exposed lug nuts because they are custom-made and forged per order. This customization allows for a more streamlined production process and eliminates the need for multiple part numbers.
Dual Drilled Wheels and Spike Lug Nuts
If you have a dual drilled wheel, you might wonder if you can use spike lug nuts on it. While it is technically possible, it may not look aesthetically pleasing. Spike lug nuts are designed for specific patterns, and using them on a dual drilled wheel would result in extra visible holes. Therefore, it is generally recommended to use spike lug nuts only on wheels specifically designed for them to maintain a visually appealing look.
Troubleshooting Fitment Issues
If you encounter fitment issues while mounting your wheels and the shop is unsure why the wheels are not fitting, it could be because they are unfamiliar with the concept of a dual drilled bolt pattern. In such cases, try using the other set of holes on the wheel. If you still face problems, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. We are here to help resolve any issues you may have with your wheels or tires.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when it comes to selecting the right wheels for your 2009 Chevy 2500 truck. By considering the information provided in this article, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision and avoid any confusion or mistakes. Remember to measure your bolt pattern accurately, be aware of the dual drilled wheel concept, and choose the appropriate lug nuts for your wheels. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us.
