Introduction
In this episode of “I Never Knew,” we will delve into the world of bolt patterns and provide you with a comprehensive understanding of this often confusing topic. At Custom Offsets, we receive numerous customer service inquiries about bolt patterns, and we wanted to address some of the most common questions and concerns. We will explore different wheel styles and their corresponding bolt patterns, explain the concept of dual-drilled wheels, and clarify the difference in measurement units used by manufacturers. By the end of this article, you will have a complete grasp of bolt patterns and feel confident when selecting wheels for your 2012 Silverado.
The Basics of Bolt Patterns
When browsing the Custom Offsets website for wheels or wheel and tire packages, it is crucial to understand how to identify the bolt pattern. You will find the bolt pattern specification at the bottom of the product page, highlighted in red. For example, if you own a Chevy 1500, the bolt pattern will be listed as “6x5.5” (6 holes, with each hole being 5.5 inches apart). Additionally, you may come across a dual-drilled wheel, indicated by the presence of multiple bolt patterns, such as “6x135” and “6x5.5”. Dual drilling allows manufacturers to produce wheels that fit multiple vehicle models, saving time and money.
The Confusion with Measurement Units
One common source of confusion is the use of both inches and millimeters to describe bolt patterns. For instance, Chevrolet may have a bolt pattern of “6x5.5” in inches, while Ford vehicles may use “6x135” in millimeters. The choice of measurement unit varies across manufacturers, and there may not always be a clear reason behind it. The important thing to note is that even though the units may differ, the bolt patterns are the same.
Measuring Bolt Patterns
To measure the bolt pattern of your wheels, you need to determine the distance between the center of two opposite lug holes. For example, in the case of a dual 5-lug wheel, you measure the distance from the center of the far-right lug hole to the center of the far-left lug hole. This measurement represents the second part of the bolt pattern specification. In the case of the earlier mentioned “5 on 5.5” bolt pattern, it means the wheel has five lug holes, with each hole being 5.5 inches apart. Similarly, if you were to measure the bolt pattern in millimeters, it would be 150mm. Having a clear understanding of how to measure bolt patterns will help ensure a proper fitment.
Understanding Center Caps
Another aspect to consider when selecting wheels is the presence or absence of a center cap. Many wheels come with covered center caps, which hide the lug holes and give the wheel a clean, seamless look. However, some manufacturers, like American Force Wheels, opt for exposed lug nuts, creating a bolder aesthetic. The reason behind exposed lug nuts in American Force Wheels is that they are custom forged and made to order, eliminating the need for molds and reducing part numbers. While exposed lug nuts may be visually appealing, they are not suitable for dual-drilled wheels, as they would expose the extra holes for the other bolt pattern.
Troubleshooting Fitment Issues
If you encounter fitment issues when mounting your wheels, it is essential not to force them onto the vehicle. Instead, try the other set of lug holes to see if they align correctly. If the fitment issue persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to our customer service team. We are here to assist you in finding the right solution and ensuring that you receive the correct part. Providing us with clear pictures of your setup can help us identify any potential problems and guide you accordingly.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when selecting wheels for your 2012 Silverado. Knowing how to identify, measure, and troubleshoot fitment issues will save you time, money, and frustration. We hope this comprehensive guide has equipped you with the knowledge needed to confidently choose the perfect wheels for your vehicle. If you have any further questions or topics you would like us to cover in future videos, please reach out to us. Our team is always here to help. Stay tuned for more in-depth guides and informative videos. Until next time!
