Introduction
Welcome to another informative episode of “Sh*t I Never Knew” on Custom Offsets’ YouTube channel. In this episode, we will be discussing an essential topic that often confuses people - bolt patterns. We frequently receive questions about bolt patterns through customer service emails and calls, so we are here to provide a quick rundown on everything you need to know about them.
Understanding Bolt Patterns
When you visit the Custom Offsets website and browse through the wide range of wheels, you will notice that each wheel has its bolt pattern specified. The bolt pattern is crucial in determining whether a particular wheel will fit your vehicle. It is essential to understand what the bolt pattern means and what you can expect when purchasing wheels and tires.
Dual Drilled Wheels
One common feature you may come across while browsing the Custom Offsets website is dual drilled wheels. These wheels have two different bolt patterns, allowing them to fit multiple vehicle models. Manufacturers often use dual drilled wheels to save time, money, and effort. Instead of creating separate molds for different bolt patterns, they design a single wheel with multiple bolt patterns. This eliminates the need for separate part numbers and reduces the chances of mistakes during production.
For instance, a wheel may have a bolt pattern of 5x150 and 5x5.5. This means that the wheel can fit both Toyota Tacomas and Ram 1500s. By creating dual drilled wheels, manufacturers can cater to multiple vehicle models without incurring extensive costs.
Inch vs. Millimeter Measurements
One common misconception that customers often have is confusion between inch and millimeter measurements in bolt patterns. Some manufacturers use inches, while others use millimeters. For example, Chevrolet’s bolt pattern is often referred to as 6x5.5 in inches, but its equivalent in millimeters is 6x139.7. This difference in measurement systems can cause confusion, but it is essential to understand that they are the same bolt pattern.
The use of inches or millimeters varies by manufacturer, and there may not always be a specific reason for it. However, using inches or millimeters makes it easier for manufacturers and consumers to differentiate between different bolt patterns. Ford, for example, uses 6x135 instead of 6x5.3 inches for its six-lug bolt pattern.
Measuring Bolt Patterns
When it comes to measuring bolt patterns, it is crucial to know how to do it correctly. To measure a dual five-lug bolt pattern, follow these steps:
- Start by identifying the far-right corner’s center and the far corner across from it.
- Measure the distance between these two centers.
For example, a bolt pattern of 5x5.5 means that the wheel has five lugs, and the distance between the centers of the far right corner and the far across corner is 5.5 inches. Additionally, if you are measuring the second bolt pattern, such as 5x150, you would need to convert the measurement to millimeters.
Covered vs. Exposed Center Caps
Another factor to consider when purchasing wheels is whether they come with covered or exposed center caps. Most wheels, like the one in the video, have covered center caps, concealing the lug nuts. However, newer wheels are becoming increasingly popular with exposed lug nuts. American Force wheels, for example, feature exposed lug nuts as a stylish trend.
The reason behind this difference lies in how the wheels are manufactured. Forged wheels, like American Force wheels, are custom-made per order and do not involve molds. On the other hand, wheels that use molds, like the covered center cap wheel, need to maintain a consistent appearance across different vehicles, hence the covered center cap design.
Ensuring Proper Fitment
If you encounter fitment issues while mounting your wheels, do not force them onto your vehicle. Wheels should fit snugly without the need for excessive force. If you experience any difficulties, it is recommended to contact Custom Offsets’ customer service team for assistance.
Remember, if you have a dual drilled bolt pattern, try the other set of holes before concluding that the wheels are incompatible. It is also helpful to provide pictures and consult with the customer service team to verify the part number if you have concerns.
Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has clarified any confusion about bolt patterns and their significance. Understanding bolt patterns is crucial when purchasing wheels to ensure a proper fitment for your vehicle. Remember, when browsing the Custom Offsets website, pay attention to the bolt pattern specified for each wheel.
If you have any further questions or suggestions for future videos, please let us know. We are here to help and provide you with the information you need. Until next time!
