Aftermarket Wheel Essentials

Test Fitting, Cleaning, and Maintenance

Important:

• Avoid using powered impact wrenches during wheel removal or installation to prevent damage.
• Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure proper fitment and avoid potential issues.

Test Fit Instructions

Basic Wheel Fitment
Place the wheels on your vehicle and confirm that the bolt pattern aligns with your vehicle's studs. Some space between the wheel hub bore and the vehicle hub is normal with aftermarket wheels, as they are typically lug-centric. If vibrations occur due to a larger hub gap, hub rings can help center the wheel during installation.

Step-by-Step Test Fit:

1. Clean the Mounting Surface: Ensure the surface is free of debris so the wheel lays flat.
2. Test the Lugs: Hand-tighten the lugs to secure the wheel for fitting. If you ordered "Wheels Only," perform a test fit before mounting tires.

Key Areas to Check:

• Bolt Pattern and Lug Fitment: Confirm alignment and threading.
• Clearances: Check for any contact with brake calipers, valve stems, or wheel weights. Spin the wheel by hand to ensure sufficient clearance.
• Steering and Suspension: Place cardboard under the front tires to protect them during testing. Verify tire clearance by slowly turning the steering wheel fully in both directions. Check for fender and suspension clearance with the vehicle at ride height.

Final Steps:

• Tighten the lugs in a star-shaped pattern using a torque wrench. This prevents vibrations and keeps the wheel centered.
• Re-torque the lugs after 25 miles of driving and check again after 50-100 miles.

Directional Wheels and Tires

Directional Wheels
These wheels feature designs that rotate either forward (digging) or backward (swooping). They are often installed in mirrored pairs for a uniform look on both sides of the vehicle.

Directional Tires
Tires designed to rotate in a specific direction for optimal performance. Indicators on the tire sidewall show the correct installation direction, which can improve handling and speed.

Lug and Bolt Information

There are many styles and fitments for lugs, such as:

• Closed, Open, or Spiked Lugs: Match the wheel design.
• Conical, Ball, or Flat Seats: Ensure the lug base matches the bolt hole shape on your wheel.

Key Tips:

• Test each lug by hand to ensure proper threading.
• Locking lugs provide extra security but require the included key for removal. Store the key in a safe location.
• Open-ended lugs may be provided when center caps cover the hub area to ensure proper clearance.

TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems)

How It Works:

• Direct TPMS: Uses sensors to send tire pressure data to your vehicle’s system.
• Indirect TPMS: Estimates tire pressure using the vehicle's anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Syncing TPMS
Sensors usually sync automatically within 100-200 miles of driving. If issues persist, Contact Us for assistance based on your vehicle’s specifics.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular wheel cleaning not only keeps your ride looking sharp but also prevents corrosion and finish damage. Salt, mud, and grime are common culprits for pitting and other finish issues.

Cleaning Tips:

1. Use a two-bucket method (clean and dirty) with mild soap or a finish-specific cleaner.
2. Rinse the wheels thoroughly before scrubbing to remove larger debris.
3. Dry with microfiber towels to avoid scratches and apply protective coatings for added shine and durability.
4. Avoid cleaning wheels while hot, as this can damage the finish.

Hub Rings, Spacers, and Adapters

For a detailed guide, visit our Spacers & Adapters Guide.

• Hub Rings: Fill the gap between the wheel hub bore and vehicle hub, ensuring proper centering during installation. Once the lugs are tightened, the hub rings no longer bear weight.

• Spacers: Used to widen a vehicle's stance or improve clearance for brakes and suspension components.

• Adapters: Similar to spacers but also allow for a change in bolt pattern, enabling the use of wheels with different lug configurations.

Tire Basics

Tires are essential for vehicle safety, and regular checks for pressure, tread depth, and rotation are vital.

• Tire Pressure: Refer to your vehicle’s manual or door jamb sticker for proper PSI.
• Tread Depth: Use a tread gauge or a penny test. Replace tires when tread depth falls below 2/32 inches.
• Rotation: Rotate tires every 6,000-8,000 miles (or more frequently for off-road tires).

For more information, Contact Us for expert assistance.