Exploring the Relationship Between Bolt Patterns, Inches, and Millimeters
Welcome to another episode of “Sh*t I Never Knew” with Kirk from Custom Offsets. In today’s episode, we will dive into the world of bolt patterns and answer the most common questions that confuse people. If you’ve ever been puzzled by the terms “6x5.5” or “6x135,” this article will clarify the mysteries of bolt patterns once and for all.
A Dual Drilled Wheel: Solving the Mystery
When browsing through the Custom Offsets website, you may have noticed wheels labeled with different bolt patterns, such as “6x5.5” or “6x135.” So, what does this mean? Well, in the case of a dual-drilled wheel, it means that a single wheel can fit multiple vehicles with different bolt patterns.
Instead of manufacturers creating separate molds for each wheel, they make a dual-drilled wheel with two bolt patterns. For example, a wheel with a bolt pattern of “5 on 150” and “5 on 5.5” can fit both Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s. This saves time, money, and eliminates potential mistakes in ordering the wrong wheels.
Debunking the Inches vs. Millimeters Dilemma
Here’s where things can get a bit confusing. Some manufacturers use inches, while others use millimeters to denote bolt patterns. For instance, a Chevy with a bolt pattern of “6 on 5.5” will have the same bolt pattern as “6 on 139.7” in millimeters. The important thing to remember is that they are essentially the same thing, just expressed in different units of measurement.
Similarly, a Ford with a bolt pattern of “6 on 135” translates to “6 on 5.3 inches.” These variations in unit measurement exist to make it easier for manufacturers and customers to differentiate between different bolt patterns. While it may seem puzzling at first, understanding this conversion will save you from mistakenly assuming you received the wrong wheels.
Measuring Bolt Patterns: Inches and Millimeters Made Simple
If you ever find yourself needing to measure a bolt pattern, fear not, as it’s a relatively simple process. In the case of a dual five-lug wheel like the one pictured, all you need to do is measure the distance from the center of the far right corner to the center of the far across corner. This measurement will give you the second portion of your bolt pattern. For example, a “5 on 5.5” bolt pattern means that it has five lugs spaced 5.5 inches apart.
Additionally, if you’re measuring the second bolt pattern, such as “5 on 150,” you would convert 150 millimeters to the equivalent in inches. This conversion helps you understand the dimensions of the wheel and ensures a proper fit for your vehicle.
The Mystery of Covered vs. Exposed Center Caps
While browsing through various wheels, you may have noticed some have covered center caps, while others have exposed lug nuts. The reason behind this distinction lies in the manufacturing process. Wheels with covered center caps, like the dual six-lug wheel shown, are more common and have a sleeker appearance. These caps hide the lug nuts and give the wheel a clean, finished look.
On the other hand, wheels with exposed lug nuts, like many American Force wheels, are forged and custom-made per order. The exposed lug nuts allow for the use of spike lug nuts, which have become a popular trend in the customization world. However, not all wheels can accommodate spike lug nuts, so it’s essential to choose the right wheel style for your desired look.
Troubleshooting Fitment Issues and Seeking Expert Assistance
If you encounter fitment issues when trying to mount your wheels, it’s important not to force them onto your vehicle. Instead, try testing the other set of holes on the dual-drilled wheel, as it may be a matter of finding the right fit. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact the Custom Offsets team for assistance. You can email them pictures of your wheel and tire setup, and they will check the part number and help you troubleshoot the issue.
Remember, if you’re unsure about any aspect of bolt patterns or have specific questions you’d like answered in future videos, reach out to Custom Offsets. Their team of experts is always ready to help you make the best decisions for your vehicle customization needs.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is key when it comes to purchasing new wheels for your vehicle. By grasping concepts like dual-drilled wheels, inches versus millimeters, and measuring bolt patterns accurately, you can confidently select the perfect wheels for your ride. Remember to consult reputable experts like Custom Offsets if you encounter any fitment issues or have further questions. With their guidance, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the world of bolt patterns like a pro.
