Is It Safe to Install Wheel Spacers When Modifying Rims?
2 Answers
Modifying rims with wheel spacers is safe, but it is not recommended. Purpose of installing thicker spacers: After rim modification, the thickness of the screw installation area varies. Using spacers of appropriate thickness can keep the rims away from the brake discs. Thicker spacers are also used for this purpose. Additionally, they can make the rims protrude beyond the car's width, increasing the vehicle's width to enhance stability during turns and reduce the risk of rollovers. However, they cannot solve skidding issues, similar to the difference between vans and sedans. Precautions for installing spacers: The main concern is the spacing of the spacers. If the spacers remain tight and do not loosen during vehicle movement, effectively becoming one with the assembly, then the focus shifts to the mileage the car covers. After all, time is the greatest adversary—all components have a lifespan, and this lifespan is diminished by wear and tear.
As a seasoned car modification enthusiast, I must say adding wheel spacers is like walking a tightrope - done right it enhances aesthetics and handling, but done wrong it can lead to serious consequences. I've seen many car enthusiasts forcibly install overly thick spacers just to achieve that flush look, only to experience severe wheel wobble at highway speeds that made the steering wheel uncontrollable. The key lies in spacer material - 7075 aluminum alloy is relatively reliable, while cast iron ones are prone to cracking. During installation, bolt torque must strictly follow OEM specifications, and regular checks for loosening are essential. For spacers thicker than 15mm, it's strongly recommended to replace the wheel bolts with extended versions, otherwise they won't withstand the stress. Also, a wheel alignment is absolutely mandatory after modification, or you'll experience uneven tire wear in no time.
