What should be considered when replacing wheel hubs?
2 Answers
When replacing wheel hubs, the following parameters should be noted: 1. Center Bore (CB): Refers to the size of the hub's center hole. Although hubs with different center bore sizes from the factory specifications can be installed using adapters, we do not recommend this for safety reasons. 2. Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD): For example, a hub with a PCD of 5x120mm indicates it has 5 lug bolts forming a circle with a diameter of 120mm. This value should also adhere to the factory specifications. 3. Offset (OFFSET): Also known as the ET value. A positive offset means the hub's mounting surface is outside the centerline, while a negative offset means it's inside. Passenger cars generally have positive offset values, and this parameter significantly affects the vehicle's driving stability and cornering trackability.
As a car enthusiast, I often tinker with changing rims. The key is to match the vehicle's original specifications—don't randomly increase the diameter or width, as it can affect handling. For example, a larger diameter reduces the turning radius and may cause rubbing against the wheel arches. The ET offset is crucial; too high or too low can interfere with the braking system—I once nearly had my calipers scrape the rims. Opt for lightweight aluminum alloy rims for better fuel efficiency, but avoid cheap, second-hand ones with cracks. Steel rims are durable and impact-resistant, ideal for rough rural roads. Installation must be done by a professional shop with wheel balancing to prevent high-speed vibrations from damaging the tires. While upgraded rims enhance aesthetics, oversized ones increase fuel consumption. Regularly check bolt tightness and ensure compliance with annual inspections. Overall, the ride feels more stable, but ignoring these details can lead to safety issues.
