The wheel spacers essentially reduce the distance from the wheel center to the hub assembly, thus they subtract the offset. Most people purchase wheels based on looks and bolt patterns but often overlook offset. Sometimes, even if you are going for a wider wheel but keeping the same offset, you are already changing the offset. In this case, wheel spacers are of importance to you. If changing wheel width, you have to consider a set of proper spacers to make the offset correct.
Companies make wheel spacers with various thicknesses which allow you to change the offset of your wheel quickly and easily. The thicker wheel spacers you use, the less the wheel offset. Giving an example, if you get +55mm rims, then 20mm wheel spacers to make the offset +35mm. Too low of an offset and your wheels will hit your fenders. Too high of an offset and your wheels will hit your inner suspension components. Consult with a professional technician if required.
Why Changing the Offset with Wheel Spacers?
Using wheel spacers to fit a wide-body kit is popular among many wide-car enthusiasts. If you add wider fenders and don’t want to change the wheels, your car will look too skinny. This is not an ideal stance. To make these wheels fit properly, you need wheel spacers. By lowering the offset, wheel spacers will solve most of the potential rubbing issues. Depending on how wide the fender is, 1.5″ to 3″ wheel spacers will be OK.
One of the most popular reasons that people use wheel spacers to subtract the offset is it allows for a more aggressive look, giving the car a powerful stance. This makes sense because properly reducing the wheel gap will make your car look better. If you lower the car a substantial amount, the vehicle’s camber will naturally change on its own. This may cause the front struts to rub against the inside of your wheel. Then installing wheel spacers to push the wheel outward will provide proper clearance.
Altering offsets also changes track widths. Since wheel spacers reduce wheel offsets, they increase the track width. A larger track can improve the handling in cornering by reducing lateral load transfer from the inside tires to the outside tires. The tires can generate increased lateral grip which is why most racing cars have their tires as far outboard as possible. You can enjoy all these benefits without having to purchase new wheels.
When searching for the safest offset wheel spacers, you’ll want to consider several points to find the best set. The type of aluminum wheel spacers you’ll need depends on your driving style and conditions. Mostly there are 6061-T6 and 7075-T6 these two variants. The strength, corrosion resistance, and conductivity will be different. Anyways, good wheel spacers should be able to perform well in most conditions, regardless of whether it’s hot, dry or high-speed rotation.
