Introduction
In this episode of “I Never Knew,” we will be diving into the world of bolt patterns. Many people have questions and confusion around bolt patterns when it comes to purchasing wheels and tires for their vehicles. Here at Custom Offsets, we receive numerous customer service inquiries about this topic. So, buckle up and let’s go through the basics of bolt patterns and what you need to know when selecting wheels and tires for your Chevy 1500.
Selecting Wheels on Custom Offsets Website
When you visit the Custom Offsets website and browse through the wheels, you will notice that each wheel has a specific bolt pattern mentioned next to its description. For example, if you own a Chevy 1500, you will see a bolt pattern stated as “6x5.5” in red. Additionally, you might also see another bolt pattern mentioned, such as “6x135.” This indicates that the wheel is dual-drilled and can fit different vehicles with different bolt patterns, saving manufacturers time and money. In this case, the wheel is designed to fit both Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s.
Different Bolt Patterns for Chevys in Inches and Millimeters
One common misconception is when customers think they have received the wrong wheels because the bolt pattern mentioned on the website does not match their Chevy’s bolt pattern. For example, a customer may have ordered wheels for their 2015 Chevrolet 1500 with a known bolt pattern of 6x5.5. However, the website mentions a bolt pattern of 6x139.7, causing confusion. The truth is, it’s the same thing. Some manufacturers use inches instead of millimeters, or vice versa, to differentiate between various bolt patterns. In the case of Chevy, its bolt pattern is 6x5.5 inches, which also translates to 6x139.7 millimeters. Ford, on the other hand, may use decimals for their bolt patterns, such as “8x170,” making it easier to identify and differentiate between patterns.
Measuring Your Bolt Pattern
If you encounter any fitment issues while mounting your wheels, don’t worry. Start by testing the other set of holes on the wheel. Sometimes, certain vehicles have dual-drilled bolt patterns, and testing the alternative set of holes can solve the problem. It is important not to force the wheel onto the vehicle as it should fit easily. If you’re still facing issues, feel free to reach out to our customer support team for assistance. To measure your bolt pattern, you need to measure the center-to-center distance of the farthest corners of the bolt holes. For example, a bolt pattern of 5x5.5 means that the wheel has a five-lug pattern with a distance of 5.5 inches between the adjacent bolts. In the case of a bolt pattern of 5x150, the distance would be equivalent to 150 millimeters, approximately 5.9 inches.
Covered Center Caps vs. Exposed Lug Nuts
Another aspect to consider when selecting wheels is the design of the center caps. Some wheels come with covered center caps, while others have exposed lug nuts. Most wheels on the market have covered center caps, giving them a sleek and clean appearance. However, some newer designs, like those from American Force Wheels, feature exposed lug nuts for a more aggressive and customized look. American Force Wheels are custom-made and forged, allowing for more flexibility in design options. Please note that spike lug nuts can only be used on wheels specifically designed for them, as adding them to other wheels with extra holes would not look aesthetically pleasing.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is essential when purchasing wheels and tires for your Chevy 1500. The confusion between inches and millimeters can be easily resolved by recognizing the two measurement systems used by different manufacturers. Remember to measure your bolt pattern accurately and avoid forcing wheels onto your vehicle. In case of any issues or further questions, feel free to reach out to our customer support team for assistance. We hope this article clarifies the basics of bolt patterns and helps you make an informed decision for your Chevy 1500. Stay tuned for more informative videos from Custom Offsets!
