Wheel Spacers vs Wheel adapters

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Nov 25, 2023 | 10:04 PM

Pickupmanx2

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From: Near Yosemite CA

Wheel Spacers vs Wheel adapters

Looking for input if anyone has used either or... I have my 98 Expy 4x4, I really don't care for the factory steel rims, not a fan of the directional look, so I ordered new Black Rock 942 Type D Matte black rims in 16x7, annnd... they rub on the calipers.

Debating on ordering the hub-centric 1/2" spacers, OR hub-centric 1" wheel adapters so I can get tires mounted and on the road, tires are 265/75/16 Toyo AT3

Not sure which is the best way to go, I need one or the other, or if anyone has wheel recommendations I'm open to that also, just doesn't seem to be a lot of choices in the 5x135 that aren't expensive, this is a budget rig as a secondary family truck.

Nov 26, 2023 | 07:43 AM

broncoholic

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From: Melbourne, FL

First, I prefer buying wheels with the right backspacing to avoid spacers and adapters. In the absence of that option, I would do the adapter (assuming it's bolted to the truck hub and then the wheel is bolted to the adapter). Just make sure to use thread locker when installing the adapter to the hub.

My concerns for the options you're considering:

1/2" thick spacer is thick for a spacer. Are your wheel studs long enough to get enough threads engaged with the lug nut?
1" thick adapter is thin for an adapter. Are the wheel studs short enough to clear the face of the adapter and let you mount the wheel, or will you have to trim the studs?

Since you're already considering using an adapter, would you have better wheel options if you adapt to a 5x5.5 bolt pattern?

Nov 26, 2023 | 12:33 PM

Pickupmanx2

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From: Near Yosemite CA

Quote:

Originally Posted by broncoholic

1/2" thick spacer is thick for a spacer. Are your wheel studs long enough to get enough threads engaged with the lug nut?
1" thick adapter is thin for an adapter. Are the wheel studs short enough to clear the face of the adapter and let you mount the wheel, or will you have to trim the studs?

Since you're already considering using an adapter, would you have better wheel options if you adapt to a 5x5.5 bolt pattern?

Thank you, and Yes, that is my preference also, even called Jegs to verify, it's not actually the bs, it's the design of the rim, the back of the spokes is what is hitting the front of the caliper, and my dumba$$ assumed since they were 5x135 they were correct.

I'm going to do some measuring today and see just how much stud I have, the steel wheels aren't thick like aluminum, I just don't want the wheel/tire sticking out so far they look stupid is why I initially thought 1".
Yes, thought about going to 5x5.5, still an option, however I already have the rims in 5x135, and had to return the first set because they were damaged in shipping... I'll chew on it more once I measure the studs.
Thanks for your input