Are Wheel Spacers Safe?
Safety is obviously crucial when it comes to anything vehicle related. For those of you that tuned in, our previous blog on wheel spacers detailed the role and function of wheel spacers. Today, we'll be taking things a step further. You've asked and we have listened, diving a bit deeper into this popular modification. Our focus now is on the widely debated question: "Are wheel spacers safe?"
The Short Answer: Yes, wheel spacers are safe to use, provided you are using quality spacers that are correct for your vehicle, and you ensure they are correctly installed and maintained. There are many myths around wheel spacers, and we’re here to dispel those misnomers and ensure your ride continues to be both enhanced and secure.
What are Wheel Spacers?
Before we dive into the details, let’s recap what wheel spacers are and what they do.
To put it simply, wheel spacers are devices that are fitted over a vehicle’s holding bracket. They produce extra clearance between the wheel and the hub assembly, resulting in a change in the standard offset or the distance between the wheel and the wheel hub.
The Purpose of Wheel Spacers
The function of wheel spacers isn't just limited to altering the aesthetics of your vehicle. Yes, they can give your ride a meaner, more aggressive look by pushing your wheels further out from the wheel well. But that's not all.
More importantly, wheel spacers improve the stability and handling of your vehicle. By widening the vehicle's track, these devices lower its center of gravity. This upgrade reduces the risk of rollovers during high-speed turns or while maneuvering through challenging terrains.
Choosing the Right Wheel Spacers
Various factors come into play when choosing the right wheel spacers. It's all about the specifics of your vehicle and wheel assembly. Luckily, the process becomes significantly less daunting with the correct guidelines and instructions.
Commonly, you'll come across two types of wheel spacers – the lug-centric spacer that slides onto the existing studs and the wheel adapter that directly bolts onto the hub, providing a new set of studs for the wheel to attach. It’s crucial to choose the right type for your given application.
The Impact of Spacer Placement
The placement of wheel spacers changes the overall stance of a vehicle and interacts with other components like the wheel wells and hub. However, when fitted correctly, they contribute significantly to a safer and more comfortable driving experience thanks to the wider stance. With that explained, let's move on to debunking some common myths and misconceptions about wheel spacers in the next section.
Debunking Myths About Wheel Spacer Safety
When it comes to wheel spacers, misinformation is rampant, leading to a host of myths that need debunking. It's crucial to trust facts over rumors, especially when your vehicle's safety is at stake. Let's clear up some common misconceptions:
Myth: Wheel Spacers Cause Wheels to Fall Off
Fact: As scary as this sounds, it's a myth. Wheels falling off is not a consequence of using wheel spacers, but rather an effect of improper installation or low-quality spacers. In contrast, high-quality wheel spacers that are correctly installed have no risk of causing loose wheels.
Myth: Wheel Spacers Weaken Your Vehicle's Suspension
Fact: Equipping your vehicle with the correct size and type of spacer will have zero impact on your suspension's strength. The myth of suspension weakening exists due to issues that arise from incorrect fitment.
Myth: Wheel Spacers Damage Wheel Bearings
Fact: Indeed, wheel spacers do alter the offset; however, they don’t induce premature wear on wheel bearings when they are properly fitted and maintained. The concern around vehicle offset is a myth in and of itself – check out our video to learn more!
Myth: Wheel Spacers Cause Vibrations
Fact: Any vibration issues experienced are typically the result of not installing the spacers correctly or using non-hub-centric spacers. When you use the right spacers and install them properly, you won’t encounter noticeable vibrations.
Myth: Wheel Spacers are Only For Aesthetics
Fact: Yes, wheel spacers certainly enhance the appeal of your vehicle, but they do much more than improve aesthetics. They also optimize handling and provide the necessary clearance for larger aftermarket tires or brake systems.
In the minefield of myths and half truths, correct and comprehensive information is your best weapon. With each myth debunked, it becomes strikingly clear that wheel spacer safety primarily comes down to quality and correct handling.
Tips for Proper Installation of Wheel Spacers
So how can you use wheel spacers while avoiding these common issues? It all comes down to proper installation and regular maintenance of the spacers:
Use a Torque Wrench
To ensure the wheel lugs are properly tightened, always use a torque wrench. Don't rely on impact wrenches as they can cause overtightening.
Apply Thread Locker
Thread locker is an adhesive used to prevent loosening. Apply a medium strength thread locker on your wheel studs during installation.
Regular Maintenance
Check your wheel spacer’s tightness from time to time, preferably when you rotate the tires. Regular inspection and simple maintenance greatly reduce the chances of any concerns.
Right Size and Type
Use the right type and mm spacer for your vehicle. Certain spacers are designed for particular cars, track days, or wheel sizes – the correct fitment plays a big role in maintaining safety. It's usually better to use hub-centric spacers for proper fitment to avoid issues like vibrations, rather than opting for wheel spacer adapters (unless you are specifically trying to change the lug pattern).
With each myth debunked and with the right installation approach, you can rest assured knowing wheel spacer safety comes down to quality and correct handling.
How Far From Stock Can Help
With a reputation built on uncompromising quality, Far From Stock helps you offset potential risks. Our high-quality wheel spacers are built with precision, ensuring they fit perfectly with your vehicle, leaving no room for safety issues or vibrations.
Beyond offering premier parts like wheel spacers and adapters, Far From Stock extends its attention to every customer's unique requirements. Our team is well-versed in producing custom spacers tailored to suit the specific needs of your vehicle. So, whether you’re looking to add that extra bit of width for bigger tires, or want to enhance your vehicle's handling and stability, Far From Stock has you covered.
Car modifications, when done correctly, will elevate your driving experience. As evident, wheel spacers do precisely that – offering both performance improvements and an aesthetic upgrade. And when you get them installed by Far From Stock, you can be assured of a safe, smooth riding journey.
The road ahead is all yours. Check out aftermarket wheel spacers at Far From Stock today!