Looking to get a killer set of tires and wheels for your truck? The thing is, there’s lots to consider when looking for the right wheels and tires. Beyond style and capability, you need to make sure that your wheels and tires fit the right way. That’s where the concept of fitment comes in.
Don’t worry if you have never heard of the term fitment. Here, we will lay out the basics of what fitment is and why it is important when it comes to purchasing aftermarket tires and wheels for your vehicle.
So what is fitment? It is basically the fit of wheels on your vehicle. You see, there are a number of things that you have to consider when purchasing or fitting aftermarket wheels. You not only have to consider the type of wheel that you want, you have to consider how that wheel will be fitted to your vehicle.
Now, let’s take a look at the first thing that you will want to consider when looking for aftermarket wheels – the bolt pattern.
Each vehicle has a different bolt pattern for its wheels. Therefore, it is important that you select wheels that have the exact bolt pattern that is found on your vehicle.
The most common bolt patterns will have an even number of bolts: two, four, six, or eight. Less common bolt patterns will have an odd number of bolts; three, five, or seven.
Counting the number of bolts is not enough. You will also want to measure the bolt pattern to make sure that you get the right fit for your truck wheels.
To measure the bolt pattern of your truck, simply follow this three step process:
Now that you have the measurements, you will be better able to find the right wheels for your truck. On all wheels, you will find the rim size stamped. The size will give you three pieces of information:
Diameter – This number will tell you what size tire the rim will accommodate.
Width – The width can be measured across the top of the rim.
Bolt pattern – The furthest point between two bolts
Note that all of these measurements are displayed in inches.
Now, let’s create an example. You pick up a rim and you see the following numbers:
14 x 6j x 4.5
This information tells you that the rim will fit a 14-inch tire, have a width of 6 inches and bolts that are as wide as 4.5 inches from each other. Note that the the “J” will identify the width number
Locating the rim stamp
The rim stamp will be located in the back of the hub of the rim. Sometimes the rim stamp will be located on the inside edge of the rim. There you will find the three numbers that will tell you the diameter, width and bolt pattern of the rim.
Backspacing is a system of measurement that determines how deep the mounting pad is located on the wheel. Correct backspacing ensures that your vehicle’s brakes, suspension and steering system can operate without interference from the wheel.
How to measure backspacing
In order to measure the backspacing on a vehicle, you will need both a straight edge and measuring tape:
Now that you have found the wheels that you want for your truck, you will want to consider the offset position of the tires. There are three basic offset positions that you can choose:
Let’s take a look at what each offset position means and the advantages of the disadvantages of each offset.
Positive offset
A positive offset is when the centerline of the hub is positioned toward the street end of the vehicle. You will see wheels with a positive offset on front-wheel-drive and newer rear wheel drive vehicles. The main advantage of positive offset wheels is that you get ample clearance from the wheel well. Thus positive offset positions are popular for trucks that are going to do lots of off-roading.
Zero offset
A zero offset is when the centerline of the hub is positioned in the centerline of the wheel. The main advantage of zero offset wheels is that you will have excellent stability. This can be important if you have a lifted truck.
Negative offset
A negative offset is when the hub mounting surface is positioned behind the tire’s centerline. You will see trucks with “deep dish” wheels have a negative offset. The main advantage of a negative offset is that it will give your truck a wider track. This will reduce load transfer when cornering. Therefore, you may want to consider a negative offset if you plan to carry lots of payload in the bed.
Chances are that you have a number of questions about fitment. Here are the answers to come of the most commonly asked questions.
What are wheel adapters?
Wheel adapters will allow you to change the bolt patterns to properly fit wheels. If an aftermarket wheel doesn’t quite fit your vehicle, then a wheel adapter may do the trick.
What is a wheel spacer?
Wheel spacers are devices that fit over the vehicle’s holding bracket which allows extra clearance between the wheel and the wheel hub assembly. If you don’t have quite enough space between your wheel and the wheel hub assembly, then a wheel spacer will get the job done.
What are plus and minus sizing for wheels?
When you are considering wheels, you will want to factor in the profile size of the tire. The plus indicates a rim that is an inch or more larger than the original equipment wheels. Plus wheels will be ideal for low profile tires. Minus wheels are wheels that are an inch or more smaller than the original equipment wheels. Minus wheels are ideal for high profit tires.
What are the advantages of larger wheels on my truck?
With larger wheels you can have increased ground clearance, a better view of the road and the ability to handle standing water better.
What are the disadvantages of larger wheels on my truck?
The main disadvantages of larger wheels is that you will experience slower acceleration, more difficulty in towing trailers, and increased wear on the brakes.
Fitment is the overall way that a wheel will fit on your vehicle. Your wheel’s fitment can be adjusted by various offset configurations (positive, zero or negative) as well as wheel size and height. Also, your personal preference can play a role in fitment. If you are okay with rubbing or trimming. Overall, you should consider the driving quality and capability of your vehicle when considering ideal fitment of your vehicle’s wheels.
Your vehicle’s fitment is important when it comes to choosing aftermarket wheels. Therefore, you want to make sure that you get the right expert help on your side. Contact the pros at Krietz Customs for expert recommendations on fitment for the look you are trying to achieve. We have worked with hundreds of customers on all types of trucks. When you have a lifted truck for off-roading or a performance truck for spirited driving, we can recommend the ideal fitment for your truck.
REFERENCE:
