Wheels and Hubs
Wheel
Nuts and Studs
Trailers, like
most vehicles, will use wheel nuts and studs whose dimensions may not be common
one to another trailer. When replacing old wheel nuts or studs, measuring the
diameter of the old studs, as well as thread pitch is important. Common stud
diameters include 1/2″ and 5/8”, either a course or fine thread pitch.
Bolt
Patterns
Manufacturers can use different bolt patterns as well, making mismatching
wheel hubs very common for even seasoned users and enthusiasts.
5 Lug Patterns
If you
are measuring a 5 lug pattern, not having an even number of lugs means that
there is no bolt hole directly across from another through the center point of
the pilot hole. In this case you can measure from the outside of one stud to
the center of your third stud in line either direction, clockwise or
counterclockwise.
 |
Measurement on a 5 lug rim |
Even Numbered
Lug Patterns
 |
4 Lug |
 |
6 Lug |
 |
8 Lug |
More
Tips from the Pro’s
*When looking
for a new rim for your trailer, be sure that the pilot hole (the hole at the
very center of your rim) is the correct size and it should slide over your hub
very smoothly. A pilot hole that is too small will not fit whereas one that is
too large can lead to unnecessary vibration in your wheel and tire assembly. This can cause stress in hubs and studs.
*After removing
your wheel nuts, make sure to inspect the condition of the threads to determine
if replacement is necessary.
*When re-installing wheel nuts, make sure your wheels are flush against their hubs.
*Tighten lugs in a star pattern so that the
pressure is disbursed evenly across your rims, thus preventing unnecessary
damage.*When re-installing wheel nuts, make sure your wheels are flush against their hubs.
Tips and
information were provided by the team at the Gator Tuff parts store: www.gatortuffparts.com
