Finding the right wheel spacers can significantly impact your vehicle's appearance, handling, and overall performance. If you're searching for 8x170 hub centric wheel spacers, you've come to the right place. This guide will cover everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and maintaining these essential components. We'll delve into crucial factors like bolt pattern, hub bore, and spacer thickness, ensuring you make an informed decision.
What are 8x170 Hub Centric Wheel Spacers?
8x170 refers to the bolt pattern of your wheels. It signifies that there are eight lug holes arranged in a circle with a diameter of 170mm (or roughly 6.69 inches). Hub centric means the spacer is designed to center precisely on the wheel hub, ensuring proper alignment and preventing vibrations. These spacers are added between the wheel and the hub to increase the wheel's offset, effectively pushing the wheels outwards.
Why Use 8x170 Hub Centric Wheel Spacers?
Several reasons motivate drivers to use wheel spacers:
- Improved Appearance: Spacers can enhance a vehicle's stance, making it appear wider and more aggressive. This is a popular modification for aesthetic purposes.
- Increased Track Width: Wider track improves stability, particularly during cornering. A wider stance reduces body roll and provides a more planted feel.
- Clearance Issues: In some cases, spacers might be needed to clear larger brakes or wider wheels that wouldn't otherwise fit within the wheel wells.
- Off-Road Applications: Some off-road vehicles benefit from increased track width to enhance stability on uneven terrain.
What are the risks of using wheel spacers?
While offering advantages, wheel spacers also pose potential risks if not carefully selected and installed:
- Reduced Lug Nut Thread Engagement: Adding spacers decreases the amount of thread engagement between the lug nuts and the wheel studs, potentially compromising wheel security. This is a critical safety concern.
- Increased Stress on Wheel Bearings and Studs: Spacers can increase stress on wheel bearings and studs, potentially leading to premature wear and failure.
- Improper Installation: Incorrect installation can lead to vibrations, uneven wear, and even accidents. This emphasizes the importance of professional installation.
- Legal and Warranty Issues: Using wheel spacers might void vehicle warranties and could be illegal depending on local regulations. Check with your local authorities.
What size 8x170 Hub Centric Wheel Spacers should I use?
Choosing the right spacer thickness is crucial. Too thin, and you won't see much benefit; too thick, and you risk compromising safety and vehicle handling. Factors to consider include:
- Desired Appearance: How much wider do you want your stance to be?
- Wheel and Tire Combination: Ensure adequate clearance within the wheel wells after adding spacers.
- Vehicle's Handling Characteristics: Thick spacers can negatively impact handling, especially at high speeds. Generally, spacers of 1.5 inches or less are recommended.
Consult a professional for recommendations based on your specific vehicle and wheel setup.
Are hub centric spacers better than lug centric spacers?
Hub centric spacers are generally considered safer and more reliable than lug centric spacers. Hub centric spacers center on the hub, ensuring true wheel alignment, reducing vibrations, and preventing uneven wear. Lug centric spacers rely solely on the lug nuts for centering, increasing the risk of misalignment and vibrations.
How do I install 8x170 hub centric wheel spacers?
Installing wheel spacers is a fairly straightforward process, but it's highly recommended to have a professional perform the installation. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards. The general process involves removing the wheel, installing the spacer, and re-installing the wheel, ensuring all lug nuts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
Where can I buy 8x170 hub centric wheel spacers?
You can find 8x170 hub centric wheel spacers from various online retailers and automotive parts stores. However, it's essential to buy from reputable sources that offer high-quality products and guarantee proper fitment. Always verify the specifications (bolt pattern, hub bore, thickness) before purchasing.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when modifying your vehicle. Consult with professionals to ensure proper fitment and installation of your 8x170 hub centric wheel spacers. Improperly installed spacers can lead to serious safety issues.
