I dont understand wheel spacers
Thread Starter
JK Freak
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 712
Likes: 0
From: North East MD
I dont understand wheel spacers
I dont understand wheel spacers. Do they attach directly to the wheel, so I would need one for my spare also. They seem to come in packs of 2. And, is there a formula for working out how much back spacing or what size wheel spacers to use. I mean, do I need to figure in the added height of my tires or just the width increase? YES I ALREADY SEARCHED! Just wanted to say that first.
Thanks guys and gals.
Thanks guys and gals.
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 11,463
Likes: 165
From: Austin <--> Colorado Springs
In your searching, did you find the Wheels & Tires FAQ - right at the top of this modified section.?
Q: What back spacing will I need...
Q: What is backspacing?
Q: What are wheel spacers?
Q: Are wheel spacers safe to use or
etc...
Q: What back spacing will I need...
Q: What is backspacing?
Q: What are wheel spacers?
Q: Are wheel spacers safe to use or
etc...
JK Freak
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 553
Likes: 1
From: Houston, TX
The spacer bolts to the hub just like a wheel, then the wheel bolts to the spacer. This results in twice as many lugs to tighten.
You don't need one for your spare as long as it fits on your spare carrier. And they make spare carrier spacers so you don't need the fancier hub spacers.
I recommend trying to avoid using spacers if you can. As already stated, you now have twice as many lug nuts to work with. Also, spacers can place extra stress on the axles and other components. If you're already buying new wheels, get some with the proper dimensions to avoid spacers. This forum and your retailer should be able to steer you right. Let us know what wheels and tires you want to run, and we'll recommend the correct dimensions, etc.
Therefore, you should only need spacers if you plan on running stock wheels after your tire upgrade, depending on how large you go.
You don't need one for your spare as long as it fits on your spare carrier. And they make spare carrier spacers so you don't need the fancier hub spacers.
I recommend trying to avoid using spacers if you can. As already stated, you now have twice as many lug nuts to work with. Also, spacers can place extra stress on the axles and other components. If you're already buying new wheels, get some with the proper dimensions to avoid spacers. This forum and your retailer should be able to steer you right. Let us know what wheels and tires you want to run, and we'll recommend the correct dimensions, etc.
Therefore, you should only need spacers if you plan on running stock wheels after your tire upgrade, depending on how large you go.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 484
Likes: 0
From: Elkton, MD
There is really no extra stress when running a spacer compared to a wheel with different backspacing. Both accomplish the same thing, pushing the wheel further out to the sides.
If you do purchase spacers, go with a reputable brand like spidertrax. I have had them no my jeep for 18k miles with no issues. Just make sure to check the lugs when you rotate your tires.
When I installed mine I torqued them all to 90ft/lb, when I rotate, I set the torque wrench to 85 ft/lb. This way I do not break the lock-tite, and I can still make sure that they are plenty tight.
If you do purchase spacers, go with a reputable brand like spidertrax. I have had them no my jeep for 18k miles with no issues. Just make sure to check the lugs when you rotate your tires.
When I installed mine I torqued them all to 90ft/lb, when I rotate, I set the torque wrench to 85 ft/lb. This way I do not break the lock-tite, and I can still make sure that they are plenty tight.
JK Jedi Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 15,665
Likes: 4
From: Hammond Louisiana
There is really no extra stress when running a spacer compared to a wheel with different backspacing. Both accomplish the same thing, pushing the wheel further out to the sides.
If you do purchase spacers, go with a reputable brand like spidertrax. I have had them no my jeep for 18k miles with no issues. Just make sure to check the lugs when you rotate your tires.
When I installed mine I torqued them all to 90ft/lb, when I rotate, I set the torque wrench to 85 ft/lb. This way I do not break the lock-tite, and I can still make sure that they are plenty tight.
If you do purchase spacers, go with a reputable brand like spidertrax. I have had them no my jeep for 18k miles with no issues. Just make sure to check the lugs when you rotate your tires.
When I installed mine I torqued them all to 90ft/lb, when I rotate, I set the torque wrench to 85 ft/lb. This way I do not break the lock-tite, and I can still make sure that they are plenty tight.
Thread Starter
JK Freak
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 712
Likes: 0
From: North East MD
Thanks guys. I never checked the faqs before. Now I know about it for future questions. I do plan on using stock rubi wheels for 33's (budget). Its nice to know I dont need a spacer for the spare. Also I know for purchases to contact our vendors on here for advice on tech and products. Dave at Northridge seems to be on here a lot.