Introduction
In this article, we will discuss the basics of bolt patterns and how they affect wheel fitment. Many customers often have questions about bolt patterns, and we want to clear up any confusion. We will also delve into the concept of dual drilled wheels and their advantages. So, if you’ve ever been confused about bolt patterns or received the wrong wheels, this article is for you.
Understanding Bolt Patterns
When browsing the Custom Offsets website for wheels, it is important to pay attention to the bolt pattern of the wheel you choose. The bolt pattern is indicated at the bottom of the product page and is usually specified in inches or millimeters. For example, a Chevy 1500 may have a bolt pattern of “6x5.5” (6 lugs with a distance of 5.5 inches) or “6x135” (6 lugs with a distance of 135 millimeters).
Dual Drilled Wheels: Eliminating Mistakes and Saving Money
Some wheels, known as dual drilled wheels, have multiple bolt patterns. This means that a single wheel can fit different vehicles with different bolt patterns. For example, a wheel may have a bolt pattern of “5x150” and “5x5.5”. This allows the wheel to fit both Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s, eliminating the need for separate part numbers.
Manufacturers use dual drilled wheels to save time and resources. Instead of creating separate molds for each bolt pattern, they create a single wheel with multiple options. This streamlines production and reduces costs for both manufacturers and customers.
Understanding Inches and Millimeters
It is essential to note that in some cases, manufacturers use inches while others use millimeters to express bolt patterns. This can lead to confusion among customers. For instance, a Chevy with a bolt pattern of “6x5.5” in inches may be listed as “6x139.7” in millimeters. Ford may use “6x135” instead of “6x5.3” inches. These differences in measurement units are simply a matter of convention and are designed to make it easier for both manufacturers and customers to understand and differentiate between different bolt patterns.
Measuring Bolt Patterns
To determine the bolt pattern of your wheel accurately, you can use a simple measurement method. For example, with a dual five-lug wheel, measure the distance from the center of the far right lug hole to the center of the far left lug hole. This distance will indicate the second portion of the bolt pattern. For a bolt pattern of “5x5.5,” this measurement would be 5.5 inches. Similarly, for a bolt pattern of “5x150,” the measurement would be 150 millimeters (approximately equivalent to 5.9 inches).
Dual Drilled Wheels and Center Caps
When examining dual drilled wheels, it is essential to understand the difference in center caps. Most wheels with a dual bolt pattern will have a covered center cap, hiding the wheel’s inner workings. For aesthetic purposes, some modern wheels have exposed lug nuts, which have become popular in recent years. Wheels from American Force are typically forged and custom-made per order. Therefore, they often have exposed lug nuts and a unique, specialized design.
Using Spike Lug Nuts on Dual Drilled Wheels
It is worth mentioning that spike lug nuts, which are popular for their rugged appearance, may not be suitable for all dual drilled wheels. In the case of dual drilled six-lug, five-lug, or eight-lug wheels, using spike lug nuts might not provide the desired aesthetic. This is because employing spike lug nuts would expose additional holes, which can detract from the overall appearance of the wheel.
Troubleshooting Fitment Issues
If you encounter fitment issues when mounting your wheels, do not force the wheel onto the vehicle. Wheels should effortlessly fit onto the corresponding bolt pattern. If you’re experiencing difficulties, it may be due to a different bolt pattern on your vehicle or a misunderstanding of the dual drilled concept. In such cases, it is recommended to contact Custom Offsets for assistance. They can help verify the part number and provide guidance to ensure a proper fit.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when selecting wheels for your vehicle. By comprehending the basics of bolt patterns and the concept of dual drilled wheels, you can ensure a perfect fit without any unnecessary confusion or frustration. Remember to measure accurately and consult with experts to troubleshoot any fitment issues you may encounter. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to choose the right wheels for your vehicle confidently.
If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to Custom Offsets. They are always ready to help customers make informed choices and find the perfect wheels for their vehicles.
