Wheel spacers are a prevalent aftermarket modification for many vehicle owners. They are designed to widen the stance of a vehicle by increasing the distance between the hub and the wheel. Go with KSP Performance. Wheel spacers can have various benefits, including improved handling, enhanced appearance, and the ability to fit larger brake systems.
However, it is vital to understand the potential risks of spacers before modifying your vehicle. In this article, we talk about the pros and cons of using them and provide some tips on using them safely.
Pros of Wheel Spacers
Improved Handling: By widening a vehicle’s track width, wheel spacers can provide more stability when cornering, improving handling and overall performance. Additionally, they can help reduce body roll and enhance overall grip, especially on high-performance vehicles.
Enhanced Appearance: Spacers of Wheels can give your vehicle a more aggressive stance by pushing the wheels further outwards. This can provide a more flush fitment with the fender, resulting in a cleaner and more aggressive look.
Fitment of Larger Brake Systems: Installing wheels spacers can provide the necessary clearance for larger brake systems. This is particularly useful for high-performance vehicles that require larger brakes to handle the increased horsepower.
Cons of Wheel Spacers
Potential Safety Risks: One of the main concerns associated with wheel spacers is their potential safety risks. If the spacers are not installed properly or are of poor quality, they can cause wheel failure and an accident. It is important to use high-quality wheel spacers and ensure they are installed by a professional with experience in this type of modification.
Added Stress on Suspension Components: Using them can increase the load on the wheel bearings, leading to premature wear and potential failure. Additionally, they can put additional stress on other suspension components, such as the shocks absorbers and struts.
Legal Issues: Using them, depending on your location, may not be legal. It is important to check local regulations and ensure that any modifications to your vehicle comply with the law.
Do wheel spacers cause vibration?
Yes, wheel spacers can cause vibration in certain circumstances.
They increase the distance between the wheel hub and the wheel itself. They are commonly used to improve a vehicle’s appearance or make room for larger brake calipers or wider tires.
One potential cause of vibration with spacers is that they can introduce a new source of imbalance in the wheel assembly. If the spacer is improperly balanced or installed incorrectly, it can create a wobbling effect as the wheel rotates. This can cause the vehicle to vibrate, especially at higher speeds.
Another potential issue with wheels spacers is that they can change the geometry of the suspension system. This can affect the vehicle’s handling and may also contribute to vibrations. For example, if the spacer is too thick, it can push the wheel out too far and cause the tire to rub against the fender or other parts of the vehicle.
It is important to ensure they are properly installed and balanced to minimize the risk of vibration when using a wheel spacer. It is also a good idea to use high-quality spacers specifically designed for your vehicle and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation and use. Go with www.kspmotor.com.
Tips for Using Wheel Spacers Safely
Use High-Quality Wheel Spacers: Cheap or low-quality one can lead to serious safety issues. Always choose reputable brands and ensure the spacers are made from high-quality materials.
Proper Installation: They should be installed by a professional with experience in this type of modification. Improper installation can lead to wheel failure and potential accidents.
Regular Maintenance: Inspect your wheel spacer for any wear or damage. Replace them if you notice any issues.
Will Wheel Spacers Cause Gas Mileage
In general, using wheel spacers alone is unlikely to impact gas mileage significantly. However, there are some factors to consider that could affect fuel efficiency.
One factor is the added weight of the wheel spacers themselves. While they are relatively small and lightweight, adding extra weight to the vehicle can impact fuel efficiency.
Another factor is the impact of changing the tire and wheel setup. For example, using them to accommodate wider or larger tires could increase rolling resistance and decrease gas mileage.
Finally, any changes to the geometry of the suspension system, including those caused by them, can affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics. This can lead to increased wind resistance and decreased fuel efficiency, although the impact is usually small.
Overall, the impact of using wheel spacers on gas mileage is likely minor. However, keeping an eye on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency after making any modifications to the wheel and tire setup to ensure no significant changes is always a good idea.
How to Install Wheel Spacers
Installing wheel spacers is not a difficult task, but it requires some basic knowledge of cars and mechanical work. Here are the steps to install them:
- Make sure that the car is safely parked on a level surface, with the brake engaged and the wheel chocks in place.
- Remove the wheel that you want to install the spacer.
- Clean the surface of the hub and the inside of the wheel spacer using a wire brush and some brake cleaner.
- Apply several anti-seize compound to the hub surface to prevent corrosion and rust.
- Insert the wheel spacer onto the hub, making sure that it fits snugly and securely.
- Install the wheel onto the wheel spacer using the appropriate lug nuts.
- Tighten the lug nuts from the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications using a torque wrench.
- Repeat the process for the remaining wheels.
- After driving a few miles, check the lug nuts to ensure they are still tight and re-tighten them if necessary.
It is vital to note that not all cars can have wheel spacers installed, and even for those that can, it is important to choose the right size and thickness of the spacers for your car. It is recommended that you need consult with a professional mechanic or a reputable automotive shop before installing them to ensure proper fitment and safety.
Conclusion
Wheel spacers can be a great way to improve the appearance and performance of your vehicle. However, it is vital to understand the potential risks and use them safely. Always choose high-quality wheel spacers and have them installed by a professional. Regularly inspect them for signs of wear and damage to ensure they function properly.
