Are you considering upgrading your Chevy wheels? Are you confused about what exactly a bolt pattern is and how it affects your wheel selection process? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with a complete rundown of bolt patterns, including their significance, measurement methods, and common misconceptions. Whether you’re a custom wheel enthusiast or a new buyer, this guide will be invaluable in helping you make an informed decision. So buckle up and let’s dive into the world of bolt patterns!
Key Points:
- Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when selecting custom wheels for your vehicle.
- Custom wheel manufacturers often use dual drilled wheels to fit multiple vehicle models, saving time and money.
- Inches and millimeters are both used to measure bolt patterns, and there is no standard conversion between the two.
- Ford uses a decimal format for bolt patterns to simplify their designation.
- Measuring a bolt pattern involves finding the center of opposite corners and measuring the distance between them.
- Some wheels have covered center caps, while others feature exposed lug nuts for added aesthetics.
- Spike lug nuts are popular in the aftermarket industry but may not be suitable for all dual drilled wheels.
Explaining Bolt Patterns:
A bolt pattern refers to the arrangement of bolts or studs on a wheel that attaches it to the vehicle’s hub. It consists of two main components: the number of bolts and the distance between them. The bolt pattern is usually represented as “lug count x bolt circle diameter” (e.g., 6x135), where the lug count indicates the number of bolts or studs, and the bolt circle diameter represents the measurement across the center of the wheel.
Dual Drilled Wheels:
To cater to multiple vehicle models and simplify production, custom wheel manufacturers often create dual drilled wheels. These wheels feature two bolt patterns, allowing them to fit different vehicles without the need for separate molds. For example, a wheel may be labeled as 5x150 and 5x5.5, indicating that it fits Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s. This innovation reduces manufacturing costs and eliminates the need for different part numbers.
Inch vs. Millimeter Measurements:
One common source of confusion among buyers is the use of inches and millimeters to denote bolt patterns. While Chevy uses the 6x5.5 bolt pattern in inches, it is also referred to as 6x139.7 in millimeters. Similarly, Ford’s 6-lug pattern is indicated as 6x135, instead of 6x5.3 inches. This discrepancy can be puzzling, but it helps distinguish between the two measurement systems and simplifies differentiation during wheel selection.
Measuring a Bolt Pattern:
To measure a bolt pattern accurately, locate the center of the far right corner and the center of the far opposite corner. Measure the distance between these two points to determine the second part of the bolt pattern measurement. For instance, a bolt pattern of 5x5.5 means that the wheel has five lugs spaced 5.5 inches apart. In the case of a 5x150 pattern, the measurement would be in millimeters, and its inch equivalent can be calculated accordingly.
Covered Center Caps vs. Exposed Lug Nuts:
Custom wheels come in various designs, some with covered center caps and others with exposed lug nuts. Covered center caps are common and hide the lug nuts under a cap, giving the wheel a clean, sleek appearance. On the other hand, exposed lug nuts, popular in brands like American Force, add a unique aesthetic touch to the wheels. The exposed lug nuts are often found on forged custom wheels, which are individually made to order, making them more versatile in terms of customization.
Spike Lug Nuts and Dual Drilled Wheels:
Spike lug nuts have gained popularity in the aftermarket industry, providing a rugged and aggressive look. However, when it comes to dual drilled wheels, using spike lug nuts may not be the best option. As dual drilled wheels have additional hole patterns, the protruding spikes from the lug nuts may interfere with the aesthetics, resulting in a visually cluttered appearance. Consider this aspect when selecting lug nuts for your dual drilled wheels.
Conclusion:
Understanding bolt patterns is essential for anyone interested in upgrading their Chevy wheels. By grasping the concept of dual drilled wheels, the difference between inches and millimeters, and accurate measurement techniques, buyers can confidently select the right wheels for their vehicles. Remember, if you encounter fitment issues, don’t force the wheels onto your vehicle. Instead, contact the manufacturer or seller for assistance. Armed with this knowledge, you can embark on your wheel upgrade journey with confidence, knowing that you have made an informed decision based on your vehicle’s exact bolt pattern requirements.
If there’s anything else you’d like to learn about bolt patterns or if you have suggestions for future videos, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your satisfaction is our top priority. Until next time, happy wheel shopping!
Note: The content of this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Always consult with a certified automotive expert before making any modifications to your vehicle.
