What do wheel spacers do
What Are Wheel Spacers?
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If you have ever wondered what wheel spacers do then you have come to the right place! In this article we explain what this interesting and simple bit of kit does and what is it used for.
Wheel spacers are components installed between the wheel hub assembly and the wheel itself. They create extra space between the wheel and the hub, effectively pushing the wheel outwards from the vehicle. This adjustment can impact both the vehicle’s looks and its performance.
What do wheel spacers do - Benefits of Wheel Spacers
Enhanced Vehicle Aesthetics
One of the primary reasons for installing spacers is to improve the vehicle’s stance. By pushing the wheels outwards, spacers can make the wheels align more closely with the fender. This gives the vehicle a more aggressive and sporty appearance, which is highly desirable in custom car mods.
Improved Handling and Stability
Wheel spacers can also enhance a vehicle’s handling characteristics. By increasing the track width—the distance between the left and right spacers can provide better lateral stability. This results in improved cornering capabilities and a reduction in body roll during sharp turns.
Increased Brake Clearance
If your car has bigger brakes, spacers can help make sure they don’t touch the wheels. This is important for safety. This is particularly important for high-performance vehicles where brake upgrades are common.
What do wheel spacers do - Applications of Wheel Spacers
Custom and Aftermarket Wheels
Custom wheels often come with different offsets compared to the stock wheels. Spacers adjust the offset to make sure aftermarket wheels fit properly without rubbing against suspension or bodywork.
Off-Road Vehicles
Off-road fans often use wheel spacers to fit bigger tyres for improved grip and stability on bumpy surfaces. Spacers can ensure these larger tyres do not interfere with the vehicle’s suspension or body.
Performance Cars
Spacers can improve tyre contact with the road for better grip and performance in high-performance vehicles. This is crucial for both track use and spirited driving on winding roads.
What do wheel spacers do - Considerations When Using Wheel Spacers
Proper Installation
The correct installation of wheel spacers is vital to ensure safety and performance. It is essential to use high-quality spacers made from durable materials such as aluminium or steel. Additionally, you must follow proper torque specifications to prevent any issues with wheel alignment or hub integrity.
Potential Wear and Tear
Wheel spacers have advantages, but they can strain the suspension and wheel bearings of a vehicle. regularly inspect these components for any signs of wear or damage.
Legal and Safety Regulations
Before installing wheel spacers, check local regulations regarding vehicle mods. Certain areas have strict rules about using spacers. It’s important to follow these rules when making changes to avoid problems and stay safe while driving. One such legal stipulation is that your tyres should be fully covered by your wheel arches. There is an allowance for sidewalls, though often you may need to consider applying extend wheel arches when widening the stance of your vehicle using wheel spacers.
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Conclusion
Wheel spacers are a popular modification that can greatly improve the overall look and feel of a vehicle. Wheel spacers increase the distance between the wheel hub and the wheel to accommodate larger wheels and tires. This can give the vehicle a more customised and unique appearance, making it stand out from the crowd.
In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of a vehicle, wheel spacers can also improve performance. By widening the track width, spacers can improve handling and stability, especially during high-speed cornering. This can result in a more responsive and controlled driving experience, making the vehicle more enjoyable to drive.
Note that wheel spacers may not be suitable for all vehicles. Before installing wheel spacers, carefully consider wheel size, tyre clearance, and suspension setup. It’s crucial to have a professional properly installed wheel spacers to prevent safety issues.
Overall, wheel spacers can be a valuable solution for vehicle owners looking to enhance the appearance and performance of their vehicle. By understanding the benefits, uses, and considerations of spacers, vehicle owners can make informed decisions that will help them achieve their desired results.
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