Introduction
In this episode of “I Never Knew,” we dive into the world of bolt patterns, unraveling the confusion surrounding this topic. Bolt patterns play a crucial role when it comes to choosing custom wheels for your vehicle, and understanding them is essential to ensure a perfect fit without any issues. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this article will guide you through the basics of bolt patterns, debunk common misconceptions, and provide helpful tips for measuring and fitting your wheels.
Understanding Bolt Patterns
When browsing through the Custom Offsets website for custom wheels, you’ll come across various bolt patterns mentioned next to the product description. A bolt pattern refers to the number of bolts or lugs on a wheel and the spacing between them. It is typically denoted as “lug count” by “bolt circle diameter.”
For example, if you have a Chevy 1500 truck, you’ll notice the bolt pattern mentioned as “6x5.5” (6 lugs with a bolt circle diameter of 5.5 inches). Additionally, you might see “6x135” listed, which indicates a dual-drilled wheel with two different bolt patterns. In this case, it’s important to understand that manufacturers often create dual-drilled wheels to fit multiple vehicles, eliminating the need for separate molds and saving costs.
Inches vs. Millimeters: An Explanation
One common confusion arises with the use of inches and millimeters in bolt patterns. While some manufacturers use inches to denote bolt patterns (e.g., 6x5.5 for Chevy), others prefer millimeters (e.g., 6x135 for Ford). Despite the difference in units, these bolt patterns are essentially the same, just expressed differently. When in doubt, it is best to consult the manufacturer’s specifications or reach out to the customer service team for clarification.
Measuring Bolt Patterns
Measuring your vehicle’s bolt pattern is a simple process that ensures you select the right wheels for your vehicle. In the case of a dual five-lug wheel, like the Ram 1500, you measure the distance from the center of the far right corner to the center of the far across corner. In this example, it would be five lugs spaced 5.5 inches apart, giving you the bolt pattern of “5x5.5.” Similarly, if you were measuring a second bolt pattern, the distance would be 150 millimeters, equivalent to its inches counterpart. This method helps you determine the exact bolt pattern required for your vehicle.
Covered Center Caps vs. Exposed Lug Nuts
When browsing different wheel options, you’ll notice some wheels have covered center caps, while others feature exposed lug nuts. The choice between these designs often depends on the manufacturing process and the specific wheel brand. For instance, manufacturers like American Force produce forged wheels, custom-made per order. These wheels feature exposed lug nuts and unique customization options. On the other hand, most aftermarket wheels come with covered center caps for a sleek and clean appearance, hiding the lug nuts from view.
Dual-Drilled Wheels and Fitment Issues
Dual-drilled wheels, as the name suggests, have two sets of bolt patterns, allowing them to fit different vehicles. However, when mounting the wheels, it is essential to ensure a perfect fit. If your wheels are not fitting properly, try testing the other set of holes on the wheel. It’s crucial not to force the wheel onto the vehicle, as it should fit without any issues. If fitment problems persist, it is advisable to reach out to the customer service team, providing them with the necessary details and even sending pictures for evaluation.
Conclusion
Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when it comes to selecting custom wheels for your vehicle. By grasping the basics, debunking common misconceptions, and measuring accurately, you can ensure a seamless fit and enhance the overall appearance of your vehicle. Remember to consult the manufacturer’s specifications, rely on reputable sources for guidance, and reach out to customer service when in doubt. With the knowledge gained from this article, you can confidently shop for custom wheels for your 2018 Ram 2500, knowing that you have a thorough understanding of bolt patterns. Happy shopping!
