The store will not work correctly when cookies are disabled.
JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser.
For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.
Home
American Legend Wheels - Wheel Fitment Guide
American Legend Wheels - Wheel Fitment Guide
Wheel & Suspension Measuring Worksheet
Determine the proper wheel & tire combination for your vehicle by using the worksheet below. A measuring tape, straight edge (such as a yard stick) and dial calipers are recommended for more accurate results.
Wheel Width, Diameter, & Backspace
Wheel width is the distance, in inches, measured from bead seat to bead seat across the barrel of the wheel. Wheel width is used to determine compatible tire sizes and directly affects a tire’s contact patch with the ground. Depending on the width of the wheel, it will either enlarge or shrink your tire’s contact patch, leading to changes in your vehicle’s handling characteristics. The “overall wheel width” is used to determine the wheel backspace and front space measurements.
Wheel diameter is the distance, measured in inches, across the face of the wheel, from bead seat to bead seat and is used to determine compatible tire sizes. Only wheels and tires of the same diameter can be safely mounted and paired together along the same axle. As little as a half-inch difference in diameter can lead to unsafe and undesired results. The overall wheel diameter can vary depending on the wheel design and affect clearance.
Backspace is the measured distance from the wheel’s mounting surface to the very back edge of the overall wheel width (not the inner bead face) and is often incorrectly referred to as offset (see Wheel Offsets). This measurement is important when identifying inner wheel clearance closest to the vehicle’s frame and suspension components. Although related, backspace should not be confused with offset.
Tire Sizes
TIRE SIZE CODE
Markings on the tire sidewall identifying standardized tire specifications
and performance ratings. These include the vehicle class(P=Passenger Car,
LT=Light Truck), section width(mm), aspect ratio(%), maximum speed rating,
construction (R=Radial) and wheel diameter(inch).
SECTION WIDTH
The overall distance in millimeters measured from sidewall-to-sidewall of the tire when inflated – and not under load. Always wider than the tread width, although natural flex in the tire can allow the overall tire width to change depending on the wheel width it’s being mounted to. Section width is labeled as the first number on the tire size code.
TREAD WIDTH
The distance between the two outer edges of a tire’s tread. This is the tire’s shoulder-to-shoulder width and is the section of tire that contacts the road surface.
ASPECT RATIO
The percentage of a tire’s sidewall height to its section width (i.e. the 45 in 275/45 ZR18 indicates the height of the tire’s sidewall is 45% of its section width.) This distance is measured from the top of the tire tread to the bottom of the tire bead. Also referred to as a tire’s profile or series.
Wheel Offsets
Wheel offset is the distance measured in millimeters from the wheel’s centerline and the mounting surface of the wheel. Having the right offset is essential to proper wheel fitment. The offset distance determines where the tire and wheel assembly sit in relation to suspension components and the vehicle fenders. There are different types of offsets negative, zero, and positive. We offer specific offsets and backspacing for that muscular stance on your American classic.
NEGATIVE OFFSET
The mounting surface is positioned before the wheel’s centerline, closer to the back of the wheel and the vehicle's suspension.
ZERO OFFSET
The mounting surface position is aligned with the wheel’s centerline. Backspace and front space measurements will have equal dimensions.
POSITIVE OFFSET
The mounting surface is positioned past the wheel’s centerline, closer to the face of the wheel. This layout commonly results in a higher backspace measurement.
Offset / Backspace Conversion Chart
Wheel Bolt Patterns
Bolt patterns are also referred to as stud pattern, bolt circle,
or PCD(Pitch Circle Diameter). The first number refers to the number of
studs/bolt holes, while the second number is the diameter of the imaginary
circle that passes through the center of each stud(or bolt hole). Generally
stated as 5 on 4 ½, or 5×4 ¾ metric equivalents
include 5×114.3 and 5×120.65. Some wheels have more than one
set of bolt holes such as dual pattern wheels(total of 10 holes), which
allows the same wheel to be fitted to vehicles with a different bolt pattern
or PCD.
5-lug bolt patterns can be difficult to measure since the
bolt holes are not positioned directly across from each other. You can estimate
the measurement by using a straight line from the backside of one hole to
the center of the third bolt hole. To accurately measure and identify your
bolt pattern, use the American Legend Wheels Bolt Pattern Template.
Common Lug Nut Styles
IMPORTANT: It is crucial that the lug nut seat and the
wheel lug seat match. If the lug nut seat type does not match the wheel
seat type, it is possible that the lug nut could damage the wheel, or possibly
cause the lug nut to loosen and the wheel to become unsecured.
Tapered Seat
Also known as Acorn or conical wheel nut. Theyre a modern, OEM style wheel
nut that utilizes a tapered, cone-section on the end that matches the conical
seat machined into the wheels lug hole.
Mag Seat
Also known as a flange nut. While often incorrectly used to describe a tapered
seat, conical seat, or Acorn style wheel nut, Mag seat lug nuts can be identified
by the long parallel shank section that extends into the wheels center.
This type of wheel nut is still commonly used on drag racing style wheels,
as well as older style mag wheels and must be used with a flat washer. Not
to be used with wheels machined for tapered/conical seat wheel nuts.
Flat Seat
A fairly common type of lug nut that has a flat, washer-like seat.
Safety Seat
Before you install your wheels, It is very important to
check your vehicles recommended torque specifications and make sure
the lug nut is torqued correctly. If over-tightened, both the lug nut and
the stud can be fatigued, possibly leading to failure.
Bolt Pattern Template
Measuring Bolt Pattern Template
To measure 4, 6 and 8-lug bolt patterns, take your measurement from the middle of two wheel bolts directly across from one another. To measure 5-Lug patterns, take your measurement from the BACK of a wheel bolt to the CENTER of the SECOND wheel bolt. To accurately identify a 5-lug pattern, use the Bolt Pattern Template.
IMPORTANT:
To print to the Bolt Pattern Template the correct dimensions, you must ensure that the “Page Scaling” option in the print settings dialog box is set to “None” or 100%.
How Do I Use The American Legend Wheels Visualizer?
Select YEAR, MAKE, MODEL ETC of your vehicle
Use archive image (if shown) OR click on UPLOAD YOUR OWN
View vehicle photo tutorial video
Take photo then transfer from phone or camera to your computer
Drop the photo image into the box and upload
Click to return to the VISUALIZER
Wheel & Tire – Glossary of Terms
Acorn Wheel Nut
Also known as tapered seat, or conical wheel nut. Theyre a modern,
OEM-style wheel nut that utilizes a tapered, cone-section on the end that
matches the conical seat machined into the wheels lug hole. It differs
from a lug nut which does not have the tapered cone section, rather a long
parallel shank that extends into the wheels center see Lug
Nut.
Adapter
See Wheel Adapter, or Wheel Spacer
Aerospace 6061-T6
A high-grade of aluminum that has been heated treated to T6 specifications
for greater strength. It is certified for use in aircraft as it is easily
worked, highly corrosion resistant and loses minimal strength when TIG
or MIG welded. These attributes combined with its suitability for forging
makes it an ideal wheel material.
Air Pressure
The measure of force exerted by the air inside a tire, typically measured
in pounds per square inch (PSI), or kilopascals (kPa). All tires have a
recommended inflation pressure.
Alignment
Adjusting the vehicles suspension components so that the tires point
in the ideal direction and sit at the correct angle for optimum steering
and tire life. The three common alignment settings are caster, camber and
toe.
Aspect Ratio
Also referred to a tires profile or series. It is the ratio of a
tires sidewall height to its section width (i.e. the 45 in 235/45R17
indicates the height of the tires sidewall is 45% of its section
width, or 105.8mm).
Assembly Bolts
See perimeter bolts.
Asymmetric
Tires that have a different tread pattern on one side of the tire than
the other. Due to their tread design, Asymmetric tires are invariably classified
as directional (see Directional).
Backspace
Sometimes called rear space and often incorrectly referred to as offset
(see Offset). Backspace is the measured distance from the wheels
mounting pad to the very back edge of the rim (not the bead face). Although
related, backspace should not be confused with offset.
Balancing
A process typically carried out once the tires are mounted on the wheels.
An imbalance will cause the vehicle to vibrate, or wobble, as well as wear
the tires unevenly. To bring the tires into balance, small lead weights
(wheel weights) are added to the circumference of the rim.
Barrel
Also known as a hoop. Its the cylindrical, tube-like section of a
wheel. The center attaches into the barrel to form a complete wheel.
Bead (Tire)
The edge of the tire that sits in the small indent (bead seat) at the outermost
edges of the rim. Made from a round hoop of high tensile steel wires that
encircle the edge of the tire, the bead is designed to hold the tire securely
in position on the rims bead seat even when driven on when
deflated.
Bead Face
Outermost sections of the rim, against which the tires bead sits
when mounted (see Bead).
Bead Seat
The small indent (groove, or recess) at the outermost edges of the rim.
Once mounted, the tire fits tightly into this small indent creating an
air-tight seal. (see Bead, Bead Face, Seating/Breaking the Bead). Also
see run flat.
Bias Ply Tire
Also known as cross-ply. An older type of tire construction phased out
on production road cars during the early 1970s. Here the tires individual
layers of plies are layered on top of each in a crisscross pattern. Although
superseded by radial tires for passenger cars, bias ply construction is
still commonly used in off-road and truck tires, as well as many types
of racing slicks.
Billet
Refers to the machining of an object from one solid piece of material.
The centers of American Legend two and three-piece wheels are machined
from a forged billet (see Forged).
Bolt Pattern
Also referred to as stud pattern, bolt circle, or PCD. This describes the
total number of studs, along with the diameter of the imaginary circle
that passes through the center of the studs (or bolt holes). Generally
stated as 5 on 4 ½, or 5×4½ metric equivalents
include 5×114.3 and 5×120.6. The first number refers to the
number of studs/bolt holes, while the second number is the diameter of
the imaginary circle that passes through the center of each stud/hole.
Breaking the Bead
See Seating the Bead.
Caliper Clearance/Poke-Out/Stick-Out/X-Factor/Caliper
Height
On many late high-performance machinery, as well as traditional muscle
cars fitted with extreme brake upgrades, the brake caliper can protrude
(or stick out) past the wheel mounting face. Under these conditions, the
wheels spokes must curve out and around the brake caliper to provide
adequate clearance. To measure, place a straight-edge on the caliper, so
that its parallel to the hub mounting face and measure the distance.
If the straight edge can sit square against the hub (i.e. wheel mounting
face) and does not contact the brake caliper, your vehicle has no (or negative)
Caliper Stick Out, or Poke Out.
Camber
Described as positive or negative; its the angle of the tire relative
to vertical. Negative camber is when the top of the tire is tilted inwards
towards the center of the car. Positive camber is when the tire is tilted
outwards.
Car Configurator
See Visualizer
Cast Wheels
A standard-quality wheel manufacturing technique, where molten metal is
poured into a mold that is the final shape of the wheel. This manufacturing
technique produces low and inconsistent material density along with air
pockets both of which decreases a wheels overall strength
and longevity. *Note: The Pressure Casting technique used by American Legend
Wheels is a superior manufacturing technique.
Caster
Looking at the vehicle side-on; its the imaginary line the runs between
the suspensions top and bottom pivot point. The tire swivels about
this axis when turned.
Center Cap
The round cap that covers centerbore hole. Depending on the wheel design
selected, American Legend Wheels offers center caps in several different
designs, styles and finishes.
Center Hub
See Centerbore
Centering Rings
See Hub Centric rings
Center Piece
The perpendicular, disc-like portion of the wheel that bolts to the vehicles
hub. The outer rim halves, hoops or barrel attaches to the center piece
to form a complete wheel.
Centerbore
Also known as the center hub. This is the large hole (mounting spigot)
at the very center of the wheel. Its designed to precisely center
the wheel on the vehicles hub (i.e. hub-centric) to ensure there
is no run out when bolted in place. The centerbore on some wheels is machined
oversize, employing hub rings for a hub-centric fitment.
CNC/CNC Machined
CNC is an acronym for Computer Numerical Control. This automated machining
process results in incredibly accurate results with unwavering repeatability.
American Legend Wheels are CNC machined to ensure the highest possible
accuracy, unparalleled repeatability and unwavering quality.
Conical Nut
See Acorn wheel nut
Contact Patch
Also known as footprint. The section of tire that contacts the surface
of the road.
Cross Ply
Also known as Bias-Ply. An older type of tire construction phased out by
the early 1970s on passenger cars. In a Cross-Ply tire, the individual
layers of plies are layered on top of each in a crisscross pattern. Although
superseded by radial tires for passenger cars, bias ply construction is
still commonly used in off-road and truck tires, as well as many types
of racing slicks.
Curb Rash
The damage caused to a rim when scraped against the curb, or gutter.
Deep Dish
Where the center of the wheel is positioned well back from the front edge.
Wheels with a small/low backspace, or negative offset invariably have a
deep dish.
Design Rim Width
Also known as Measured Width. Every tire can be mounted on a range of manufacture
recommended rim widths. The wider the rim, the wider the tires overall
width (section width) becomes. The Design Rim, or Measured Rim, is the
rim width on which the tire is mounted when determining its size specifications
as indicted on the sidewall.
Diameter (Rim/Wheel)
See Wheel Diameter
Directional
Some tires are designed to rotate in only one direction. This direction
is typically indicated on the sidewall with an arrow and text. It is important
to mount directional tires on the correct side of the vehicle, so that
they rotate in the correct direction.
DOT/D.O.T.
An acronym that stands for U.S. Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards. Tires must carry DOT approval to be used on a public
road. The 10-digit DOT code incorporates information such as; manufacturer,
manufacturing plant, tire line, size, plus week and year of manufacture.
Similar wheel certification schemes include; JWL (Japan) and TUV (Germany/Europe).
Dual Pattern
Some wheels have more than one set of bolt holes, which allows the same
wheel to be fitted to vehicles with a different bolt pattern or PCD.
Dynamic Balance
The process of balancing the wheel and tire assembly by spinning it up
in a specialized wheel balancing machine. The point of imbalance is determined,
with leads weights added to the rim circumference to bring the wheel and
tire assembly back into neutral balance.
ET
Refers to a wheels offset (see Offset). Comes from the German word,
Einpresstiefe, which translates to insertion depth.
Fitment
The combination of the critical parameters including; width, offset, bolt
pattern, center bore and brake caliper clearance that is specific to each
particular vehicle.
Forged
Considered to be the optimum wheel manufacturing technique. The forging
process compresses an ingot of aluminum into the desired shape using heat
and millions of pounds of pressure. The result is a wheel that is both
stronger and lighter. American Legend Wheels offers forged billet wheels
in both two-piece and three-piece configurations. Also see Billet.
Front Wheel Drive Offset
Virtually all front-wheel-drive vehicles employ a high, positive offset
design wheel. For this reason, any wheel with little to no dish is often
described as having a front-wheel-drive offset. *Note: many
late-model, rear-wheel drive vehicles are factory fitted with wheels featuring
a high, positive offset design.
Gutter Rash
The damage caused to a rim when scraped against the gutter or curb.
Hoop
See Barrel
Hub/Hub Mounting Face
The point of the vehicle to which the wheel bolts up to.
Hub-Centric
A situation wherein the centerbore of the wheel is made to match up with
the diameter of the vehicles hub. This arrangement accurately centers
the wheel for zero run-out. Also, with a hub-centric fitment, vertical
loads are carried by the hub (hub-spigot) rather than the wheel studs.
Hub Centric Rings (Hub Rings/Centering Rings)
Hard plastic or aluminum rings mounted on a vehicles hub (or in the
wheels centrebore) to create a hub-centric fitment on wheels with
an oversized centerbore.
Inside Barrel
The section of rim (hoop, rim half) behind the wheels center.
JWL
A set of requirements for light alloy wheels set down by Japans Ministry
of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. Any wheel to be used on
passenger vehicle in Japan must be certified and bare the JWL mark. Similar
certification schemes include; DOT (USA) and TUV (Germany/Europe).
kPa
An acronym for Kilopascals, which refers to the pressure a tire is inflated
too psi is the imperial equivalent (1kPa = 0.145psi) see
psi.
Load Rating/Load Index Tires
The maximum weight a passenger car tire is rated to carry. The vehicle
manufacture will indicate on the tire placard the minimum load rating of
any tire that may be fitted to that vehicle. Tires with a higher load rating
may be fitted but not a lower rating. *Note: both tires and wheels have
load ratings.
Load Rating/Maximum Load Wheels
A vehicles wheels must be capable of carrying the vehicles
fully loaded, maximum weight. Wheels are individually load rated
multiply a wheels rating by four to determine if the selected rim
is of sufficient rating for your vehicles maximum, fully loaded mass.
*Note: both tires and wheels have load ratings.
Lug Nut (Lugs)
Also known as a flange nut. While often incorrectly used to describe a
tapered seat, conical seat, or Acorn style wheel nut, lug nuts can be identified
by the long parallel shank section that extends into the wheels center.
This type of wheel nut is still commonly used on drag racing style wheels,
as well as older-style mag wheels and must be used with a flat washer.
Not to be used with wheels machined for tapered/conical seat wheel nuts.
Measured Width
See Design Rim Width.
Mirror Polish
Highly-polished, raw aluminum that has the appearance of chrome.
Mono-Block
A term used to describe a forged, one-piece wheel. Here heat and millions
of pounds of pressure are used to compresses an ingot of aluminum into
the desired overall shape. *Note: a term not typically used to describe
one-piece, cast wheels.
Mounting
The process of installing the tires onto the wheels.
Multi-Piece Wheel
See Two-Piece and Three-Piece.
Negative Offset
See Offset
Offset (Positive & Negative)
Also known as ET. Its the measured distance (in millimeters) from
the true centerline of the wheel to its mounting face. A positive number
(Positive Offset) will be generated when the mounting face is towards the
front of the wheel (i.e. shallow dish). While a negative number (Negative
Offset) will be generated when the mounting face is towards the rear of
the wheel (i.e. deep dish).
One-Piece Wheel
A wheel that has been manufactured by pouring or forcing molten metal into
a mold that is the final shape of the wheel. See Pressure Cast wheel. *Note:
a term not typically used to describe forged, one-piece wheels. Here the
term Mono-Block (see Mono-Block) is more commonly used.
Outer Lip
The section of rim (hoop, rim half or barrel section) in front of the wheel
center.
Overall Diameter (Tire)
The overall, outside diameter of an inflated tire without any load on it.
Overall Diameter (Rim/Wheel)
See Wheel Diameter
PCD
An acronym that stands for Pitch Circle Diameter also referred to
as bolt circle, bolt pattern, or stud pattern. PCD is the diameter of the
imaginary circle that passes through the center of the studs or
the wheels bolt holes. This figure is usually accompanied by the
number of studs, or bolt holes. I.E.: 5 on 4 ½, or 5×4½
(for a 4 ½-inch PCD). Metric equivalents include 5 on 114.3, or
5×114.3 (114.3mm PCD). The first number refers to the number of studs/bolt
holes, while the second number is the diameter of the imaginary circle
that passes through the center of each stud/hole.
Perimeter Bolts
Also called assembly bolts. These are the fasteners used in American Legends
three-piece wheels to bolt the center into the inner and outer rim halves.
American Legend offers the option of having traditional exposed perimeter
bolts, or hidden perimeter bolts that are fastened from behind.
Plus Sizing
A guide-system that enables you to enhance the performance and looks of
your car through the fitment of larger-diameter, lower-profile tires
while keeping the overall diameter within 3% of the factory-fitted tire.
Selecting a tire with an overall diameter thats greater, or lesser
than 3% may result in problems with speedometer accuracy, transmission
shifting, fuel economy and tire-to-body clearances.
Pneumatic Tire
A tire designed to be inflated with pressurized air.
Positive Offset
See Offset
Pressure Cast
With American Legends Pressure Cast wheels, the molten metal is forced
into the mold under high pressure to eliminate air pockets, while producing
a denser, stronger, higher-quality wheel. Most low-quality, cast wheels
use a gravity-fed manufacturing procedure, where the molten metal is poured
into the mold. Gravity casting commonly creates weaknesses such as air
pockets and inconsistent material density.
Profile
Also referred to a tires Aspect Ratio. It is the ratio of a tires
sidewall height to its section width (i.e. the 45 in 235/45R17 indicates
the height of the tires sidewall is 45% of its section width, or
in this case 105.8mm).
Pro Street
A street driven vehicle that has been built to resemble a drag car, with
an emphasis on straight line performance. This style is typified with extreme
rake along with narrow tires up front combined with tall, wide tires on
the rear.
Pro Touring
A style of classic muscle car with an emphasis on cornering, handling and
braking performance. The style is typified with 17-inch or larger wheels
combined with fat, low profile tires all round.
PSI
An acronym for Pounds Per Square Inch, A common measurement unit for tire
inflation, it represents the force exerted by the air inside a tire
kPa (Kilopascals) is the metric equivalent (1psi = 6.9kPa).
Radial Tire
Tires built with its plies (belts) running perpendicularly across the face
of the tire. This arrangement adds significant strength to the tread. *Note:
While radial tires do utilize circumferential belts (plies) that run around
the tire, their purpose is more about holding the main, radial plies in
place.
Rearspace
See Backspace
Reverse Lip
Also called a flat or soft lip. Wheels with this feature have a smooth,
flat hoop that runs from the center all the way to the outer rolled edge
with no step at all. Reverse/Smooth lip design allows for a bigger
center to be fitted than is possible with a traditional, step-lip configuration.
A more contemporary design that makes the wheel look deeper and larger
in diameter.
Rim Drop
Also called a tire drop, or drop center. Looking at the rim in end-on profile,
its the smaller diameter section that dips down towards the center.
The tires bead drops down into this section, enabling it to be mounted
onto the rim.
Rim Lip
The very outer section of the wheel barrel. Also used to describe the outer
rim section in a three-piece wheel.
Rim Width
The bead-face to bead-face measurement. Also known as the width between
the rims flanges. Both typically expressed in inches (even in metric
countries) and both typically rounded to the nearest half inch. Not to
be confused with the outer-rim-lip, to outer-rim-lip measurement which
will always be greater. Every tire has a manufacturer-recommended minimum
and maximum wheel width.
Run Flat Tires (RFT)
Also known as self-supporting tires. Run Flat Tires are specially designed
with reinforced sidewalls to resist the effects of deflation when punctured.
Most can be driven 50 to 100 miles (80-160km), at a reduced speed of up
to 50mph (80km/h) with no air in them. Run Flat Tires feature a double
safety bead system to securely anchor the tire in place. While it is acceptable
to fit non-run flat tires to run flat rims. However due to the double bead,
you cannot fit run flat tires on non-run flat (regular) rims.
SAE Standard
An acronym for Society of Automotive Engineers. A globally active professional
association that establishes international engineering safety standards
along with fitment standardization for various industries, including automotive
wheels.
Seating/Breaking the Bead
The tires bead is a very tight fit onto the rims bead seat
it takes considerable force to seat the bead (when fitting the tire)
or break the bead (when removing the tire). To seat the bead, the rim is
lubricated (typically with soap) and the tire filled with compressed air
until the tires bead pops up over the small ridge (see bead seat),
dropping snugly into the bead seat. To break the bead (i.e. pull the tires
bead away from the edge of the rim) is typically done with a special clamping
machine that squeezes on the tires sidewall, pulling the tires
bead away from the edge of the rim.
Section Width
Always wider than the tread width. Its the overall, sidewall-to sidewall
width of the tire when inflated and not under load.
Series (Tire)
Tires are often referred to as being a; 60, 50, 45, etc series tire. The
numbers refer the tires Profile or Aspect Ratio (See Profile or Aspect
Ratio).
Shoulder
The point on the tire where the tread and sidewall meet.
Sidewall
The side portion of a tire between the tread and the bead.
Sipes
Small slits in a tires tread that helps disperse water from under
the tire for improved wet weather traction. Sipes have also proven to create
biting edges for extra traction in ice and snow conditions.
Soft/Smooth Lip
See Reverse Lip
Spacer
See Wheel Spacer or Wheel Adaptor
Speed Rating
The maximum speed at which a tire has been rated to safely operate at
Provided its in good condition, correctly fitted and correctly inflated.
Performance passenger car tires have the following speed ratings: H (210km/h),
V (240km/h), Z (240km/h), W (270km/h), Y(300km/h).
Spoke Insert
Also called a window accent. This is small detailed section (rebate or
groove) that runs around the edge of each, individual spoke.
Spoke Face
All the outward-facing surfaces of the wheels center.
Staggered Fitment/Staggered Width
Where a vehicle uses wheels with a different width and/or diameter front
to back. Common staggered fitment is to opt for a wider (and/or larger
diameter) wheel on the rear.
Step Lip/Stepped Lip
A more traditional design, where the outer rim section has one or two steps
on the outer lip (i.e.: it is not smooth like a reverse/soft/smooth lip
rim).
Stud Pattern
Also referred to as bolt pattern, bolt circle or PCD. This describes the
total number of studs, along with the diameter of the imaginary circle
that passes through the center of the studs (or bolt holes). Generally
stated as 5 on 4 ½, or 5×4½ metric equivalents
include 5×114.3, 5×120.6. The first number refers to the number
of studs/bolt holes, while the second number is the diameter of the imaginary
circle that passes through the center of each stud/hole.
Tapered Seat Wheel Nut
Also known as Acorn or conical wheel nut. Theyre a modern, OEM-style
wheel nut that utilizes a tapered, cone-section on the end that matches
the conical seat machined into the wheels lug hole.
Three-Piece Wheel
With modular, three-piece wheels, the outer rim section is constructed
from two separate inner and outer halves (inner/outer lips, hoops, or barrels)
that are bolted to the center piece to create a complete wheel. *Note:
Also see Two-Piece Wheel.
Tire Diameter
The nominal diameter (i.e. 17-inch, 18-inch, 20-inch, etc) of the rim the
tire is specified to mount onto. Only ever combine wheels and tires that
have the same diameter specification.
Tire Placard
Since the late 60s vehicle manufactures have affixed an information label
inside of the door jamb, door pillar, fuel filler door, or glovebox that
identifies the original equipment tire size and recommended operating pressure.
*Note: the pressure rating imprinted on the tires sidewall indicates
the maximum inflation pressure, not the manufactures recommended
operating pressure.
Toe
The physical measurement of how much the front tires are pointing inwards
(toe in) or outwards (toe out) from each other.
Torque Sequence
Refers to tighten the wheel nuts. Proper torque sequence is vital to correctly
center the wheel bolting it onto your vehicle. Begin by nipping up the
wheel nuts in a cross-hatch pattern, before making a second pass, tightening
the wheel nuts to the recommended torque specifications.
Track Width/Vehicle Track Width
The measured distance between the center line of the front, or the rear
tires. On most vehicles, the track width will differ from front to rear,
as they perform different functions.
Tread
The patterned section that runs across the face of the tire the
section which contacts the road (see Tread Pattern).
Tread Depth
The distance from the top of the tread to the bottom of the tires
grooves.
Tread Depth Indicators
See Wear Indicators
Tread Pattern
The arrangement of grooves, blocks, sipes, and channels on the surface
of the tire. Tire manufacturers continually develop updated tread designs
to enhance traction, tread life, rolling noise and wet weather performance.
Tread Width
Always narrower than the overall section width. This is the tires
shoulder-to-shoulder width and is the section of tire that contacts the
road surface.
T.U.V
A German/European certification standard that verifies a product has met
applicable safety requirements and quality standards. Similar certification
schemes include; DOT (USA) and JWL (Japan).
Two-Piece Wheel
A wheel constructed using a center piece typically welded (sometimes bolted)
into a one-piece hoop (or barrel) to create a complete wheel. *Note: Also
see Three-Piece Wheel.
Visualizer
American Legends innovative desktop tool that enables you to see
what the full range of American Legend Wheels in all the various
diameters and available finishes will look like on your vehicle.
You can either upload images of your own vehicle or use an existing image
from American Legends massive archive. The Visualizer even allows
you to customize the look and finish of your wheel.
Wear Indicators
Also called Tread Depth Indicators. At a few points on the tire you will
note small, low-lying bars that bridge individual tread blocks. The tire
should be replaced once the tread blocks have worn down to these, small
bridged sections.
Wheel Adaptor
Sometimes also incorrectly referred to as a wheel spacer (see Wheel Spacer).
An adaptor differs from a spacer in that an adaptor bolts to the vehicles
original studs, then has its own, secondary set of studs set into the adaptor
onto which the wheel bolts. Often utilized to mount wheels with different
stud patterns or to widen a vehicles track.
Wheelbase
The distance between the centerline of the front and rear wheels. Vehicles
that are longer overall, tend to have a longer wheelbase. Small vehicles
tend to have a short wheelbase.
Wheel Builder/Customizer
See Visualizer.
Wheel Diameter
The nominal diameter of a wheel (i.e. 17-inch, 18-inch, 20-inch, etc.).
The measurement actually refers to the diameter measured at the bead seat
not the outer rim lip itself (*Note: the outer rim lip will always
be larger). Only ever combine wheels and tires that are designed for the
same wheel diameter.
Wheel Offset
See Offset.
Wheel Spacer
A plate with holes drilled in it, which simply slips over the vehicles
wheel studs to move the wheel outwards (i.e. widen the vehicles track).
Wheel Visualizer
See Visualizer.
Wheel Weights
Small weights that are added to the inner or outer sections of the rim
to bring the wheel into balance which minimizes the potential vibrations
when driving. These weights (usually lead) are clipped, taped or self-adhered
to the rim.
Wheel Width
The bead-face to bead-face measurement. Also known as the width between
the rims flanges. Both typically expressed in inches (even in metric
countries) and both typically rounded to the nearest half inch. Not to
be confused with the outer-rim-lip, to outer-rim-lip measurement which
will always be greater. Every tire has a manufacturer-recommended minimum
and maximum wheel width.
Window
All the surfaces on the center of the wheel that are at 90 degrees to the
spoke face (i.e. the edge of the spokes).
Window Accent
See spoke face
Zero Offset
A condition where the wheels mounting surface is at the exact centerline
of the wheel. Also see Offset.
Now that youre wheel and tire guru, take the time
to browse American Legends range of one-piece pressure cast wheels.
Wheel Care – Satin Suede
Satin suede is a sand blasted finish best cleaned with a quality glass cleaner and a clean microfiber cloth. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.
Wheel Care – Chrome
Clean when cool with mild soap, water and non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, dry with a clean and non-abrasive towel. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.
Wheel Care – Clear Coat
Clean when cool with mild soap, water and non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, dry with a clean and non-abrasive towel. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.
Wheel Care – Powder Coat
Clean when cool with mild soap, water and non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, dry with a clean and non-abrasive towel. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.
Wheel Care – Polished
Clean when cool with mild soap, water and non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, dry with a clean and non-abrasive towel. Repolish after cleaning with a quality aluminum wheel polish. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.
What is Step Lip?
Step lip rims have one or two steps in the outer lip. The valve hole is located in the lip.
What is Reverse Lip?
Clean when cool with mild soap, water and non-abrasive cloth. Once cleaned, dry with a clean and non-abrasive towel. Repolish after cleaning with a quality aluminum wheel polish. Keep wheels clean avoiding damage to the wheels finish. Do not use harsh cleaning chemicals. Do not use pressure or steam cleaners.