8x170 2 Inch Wheel Spacers: A Comprehensive Guide
Finding the right wheel spacers for your vehicle is crucial for both safety and aesthetics. This guide delves into the specifics of 8x170 2-inch wheel spacers, covering important considerations, potential issues, and how to make an informed decision. An 8x170 bolt pattern is relatively uncommon, often found on heavy-duty trucks and specialized vehicles, so understanding the nuances is vital before installation.
What are 8x170 2-Inch Wheel Spacers?
8x170 refers to the wheel's lug bolt pattern: 8 lug holes arranged in a circle with a diameter of 170mm (approximately 6.69 inches). A 2-inch wheel spacer is a precisely engineered metal plate that sits between the wheel and the hub, effectively pushing the wheel outward by 2 inches (50.8mm). This increases the vehicle's track width, altering its stance and potentially improving handling characteristics.
Why Use 8x170 2-Inch Wheel Spacers?
- Improved Handling: Wider track width generally enhances stability and reduces body roll, particularly during cornering.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Many vehicle owners use spacers to improve the visual appearance of their vehicles, making the wheels more flush with the fenders or filling out wheel wells.
- Tire Clearance: In some cases, spacers might be needed to accommodate larger tires that would otherwise rub against the suspension or body.
- Offset Correction: Spacers can help correct for negative offset wheels, improving the fitment and appearance.
What are the Potential Downsides of Using 8x170 2-Inch Wheel Spacers?
While offering benefits, wheel spacers also present potential drawbacks:
- Increased Stress on Wheel Bearings and Studs: Adding spacers increases the leverage on wheel bearings and studs, potentially leading to premature wear and even failure if not properly installed or if using low-quality spacers.
- Reduced Turning Radius: The wider track width might slightly reduce the vehicle's turning radius.
- ABS and Sensor Issues: In some cases, spacers can interfere with the operation of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) sensors, requiring adjustments or specialized sensors.
- Wheel Stud Length: Ensure your wheel studs are long enough to accommodate the spacer and still provide adequate thread engagement with the wheel nuts. Insufficient thread engagement is a serious safety hazard.
- Compliance and Legality: Check local laws and regulations regarding wheel spacers. Some jurisdictions have restrictions on spacer thickness or require inspection after installation.
What Should I Look for When Buying 8x170 2-Inch Wheel Spacers?
- Material: High-quality spacers are typically made from materials like billet aluminum or high-strength steel. Avoid cheap or unknown brands.
- Hubcentric Design: A hubcentric spacer is designed to fit precisely over the wheel hub, preventing vibrations and ensuring proper centering. This is crucial for safe operation.
- Proper Thickness and Bolt Pattern: Ensure the spacer matches the exact bolt pattern (8x170) and desired thickness (2 inches).
- Included Hardware: High-quality spacers usually come with extended wheel studs or longer lug nuts to accommodate the increased thickness. Check for this before purchasing.
- Warranty and Manufacturer Reputation: Look for reputable brands with good warranties to ensure you are getting a safe and reliable product.
Are 2-Inch Wheel Spacers Too Much?
The ideal spacer thickness depends on several factors, including vehicle-specific characteristics, wheel offset, tire size, and personal preferences. Two inches is a relatively significant increase. While it might be suitable for some vehicles and applications, it's advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or wheel and tire specialist to determine if it's appropriate for your specific vehicle and driving style. Larger spacers generally pose a greater risk of increased stress on components.
Do I Need Longer Lug Bolts with 2-Inch Wheel Spacers?
Almost certainly, yes. Using standard-length lug bolts with 2-inch spacers drastically reduces the thread engagement, which compromises wheel security and significantly increases the risk of wheel detachment. Always use the extended lug bolts or studs specifically designed to work with your chosen spacers.
This information is for general guidance only. Consult with a qualified professional before installing any wheel spacers. Improper installation can lead to serious safety risks.
