Custom Offsets is here with another episode of “I Never Knew” to provide you with a comprehensive guide on bolt patterns. In this article, we will discuss the basics of bolt patterns, the different styles of wheels, and how to ensure a proper fit for your vehicle.
Key Points:
Introduction to Bolt Patterns:
- When browsing through the Custom Offsets website, you will notice that each wheel has a specific bolt pattern listed at the bottom of the page.
- The bolt pattern is represented by two numbers; for example, “6x5.5” indicates a 6-lug wheel with a 5.5-inch bolt circle.
- Some wheels may have dual drilled patterns, allowing them to fit multiple vehicle models.
Understanding Manufacturers’ Approach:
- To save cost and resources, wheel manufacturers often create dual drilled wheels with two bolt patterns, eliminating the need for separate molds.
- For example, a wheel may have a bolt pattern of 5x150 and 5x5.5, making it compatible with Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s.
- It’s important to note that these measurements may be listed in inches or millimeters, depending on the manufacturer.
Chevrolet vs. Ford Bolt Patterns:
- Chevrolet vehicles typically use a bolt pattern described as “6 on 5.5,” while Ford vehicles use “6 on 135.”
- The reason for the difference in measurement units is often arbitrary, but it helps differentiate between the two patterns.
- Another example is Ford’s “8 on 170,” where the measurement is in millimeters as it doesn’t make sense when converted to inches.
Measuring Bolt Patterns:
- To determine the bolt pattern on a wheel, you measure the distance across the far ends of the lug holes.
- For a dual drilled wheel, measure directly across from each other to get the second portion of the bolt pattern.
- For example, a bolt pattern of “5x5.5” indicates a 5-lug wheel with a 5.5-inch distance across the holes.
Covered Center Caps vs. Exposed Lug Nuts:
- Most wheels come with covered center caps, which hide the lug nut holes for a cleaner look.
- American Force wheels, on the other hand, often feature exposed lug nuts, giving them a more rugged and custom appearance.
- American Force wheels are forged and custom-made per order, explaining why they have exposed lug nuts and fewer part numbers.
Running Spike Lug Nuts:
- If you have a dual drilled wheel, it is possible to run spike lug nuts, but it may not look as visually appealing due to the additional holes.
- Spike lug nuts are becoming increasingly popular, particularly on wheels with exposed lug nuts.
Troubleshooting Fitment Issues:
- If you encounter fitment issues when mounting your wheels, it could be because the shop is unfamiliar with dual drilled bolt patterns.
- Try using the other set of holes to see if the wheel fits correctly. If the problem persists, reach out to Custom Offsets for assistance.
In conclusion, understanding bolt patterns is crucial when selecting wheels for your vehicle. By considering the bolt pattern, measurement units, and the dual drilled wheel concept, you can ensure a proper fit and avoid any confusion or misconceptions. If you need further assistance or have any specific requests, feel free to reach out to Custom Offsets. Happy wheel shopping!
