Wheel spacers have got controversy reputation in the modern off-road world. Some say, that they help mounting the wheels you like on the truck, the others consider them unsafe. The truth is, that not all wheel spacers are the same. That’s the reason why it is better to rely on the brands with good reputation and experience in the aftermarket world. Besides, when selecting a set of wheel spacers, make sure to consider specs of your wheels and of the spacers that you need.
What do spacers do for your car?
If you want to put wider tires on your car or truck and do not want them to rub against suspension, you will either need to get new wheels with less backspacing, or install spacers to prevent that rubbing. So that’s exactly what wheel spacers do – they keep the tire away from the hub. Also, if you pick aftermarket wheel calipers that are bigger than the stock ones and you do not want the calipers to rub against the wheels, you can fix the situation by installing a set of wheel spacers.
Wheel Spacers: Types & Specs
There are 2 main types of wheel spacers available for the vehicles:
- bolt-on type;
- washer type.
Washer wheel spacers install between the wheel and hub like a washer, hence the name. As a rule, this type of wheel spacers is used only when you need to add a couple millimeters of clearance. If you want more, it’s better to go with the bolt-on spacers.
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- Bolt-on Spacers
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- Washer-type Spacers
Bolt-on wheel spacers work like a hub extension. They include installation hardware and bolt onto existing hub. This solution is more reliable, especially if the vehicle is going to be used for off-road, or you need some significant clearance added.
Bolt-on vs Washer Type Wheel Spacers: Comparison
| Bolt-on Spacers | Washer-type Spacers | |
|---|---|---|
Pros | add large amount of clearance | easy installation |
| work as hub extenders | inexpensive | |
| more reliable | allow using wider wheels | |
Cons | more expensive | greater possibility of loose nuts |
| require certain skills for installation | reduce length of stud | |
| hardware has to work with the wheel specs | minor clearance add-on | |
| suspension characteristic change | no extra hardware included |
The Best Wheel Spacers Available Online
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Submit your review | |
I haven't got any experience with the washer-type spacers, as I do not feel they are something you can safely use on the truck. However, bolt-on spacers work great and I've got no problem with them.
