The tires on your truck will take you everywhere you need to go. That’s why you keep them in great shape, always with the right amount of pressure, and rotate them regularly. But sometimes your rims might need a little bit of polish, or you might be interested in making a change. Upgrading your rims can be fun, adventurous, and ultimately rewarding in time. Whether you’ve decided to go a size larger or a little bigger, here’s a guide to upgrading the rims on your pickup truck.
Is Upgrading Right For You?
The first question to ask yourself about a truck rim upgrade is whether you need one or not. Ask yourself if it will improve your truck’s look and feel. If the answer is no, you might want to avoid it altogether. But if the answer is yes, that’s when it’s time to really dive in and have some fun. Giving your vehicle a fresh look is part of the fun of being a truck owner. Known as plus-sizing, adding larger tires does make your vehicle heavier and can add some weight. But if the look works for you and you don’t mind somewhat larger wheels, plus-sizing can be a fun pursuit.
Check Rim Diameter and Width
To get the most out of plus-sizing, you need to understand your diameter and rim width before your upgrade. The most common ones you’ll see are going to be between 17 to 20 in. You can also go higher by a few more inches, but going lower than the factory installation will damage your truck. When you buy the rims themselves, you’ll need to know the rim width, the bolt pattern, and the room size. To get the room width, measure it from one bead to the other. Getting these measurements right is crucial because the rim is the point of contact where the wheel and tires meet. Getting it wrong can spell disaster for your truck and is probably not what you want from plus-sizing your vehicle.
Check Wheel and Rim Size
When upgrading wheels, size is one of the most vital components of the process. You must ensure your new wheels will fit your truck and your intended purpose. The right kind of wheels can increase or decrease a vehicle’s performance, depending on the size of the vehicle and its uses. While many think bigger is always better, the truth is that not all vehicles are designed for large wheels. Larger wheels may be necessary to optimize performance if you have a vehicle designed for off-roading or hauling heavy loads. However, this isn’t always true for everyday driving. That said, plus-sizing can still make your truck look great. Going one size up gives you an edge on cornering. It might also help you drive a bit faster. A second size up reduces traction but ultimately helps your look. Upgrading your tires and wheels can significantly change your experience driving, so think carefully about what you want and how it’ll affect your truck. In the long run, you’ll be glad you took the time to get your sizing correct.
Choose The Best Materials
When upgrading your truck wheels and rims, it’s important to consider the material. Different materials affect how a wheel functions in different ways. For example, steel is durable, while alloy offers a lighter weight. Unfortunately, it can be a bit more expensive than its counterparts. If you’re looking for a lightweight wheel option, an alloy offers plenty to enjoy. However, if you want something that’s built to last through tough conditions, steel is likely your best bet. That’s why so many good-looking wheel upgrades are made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. These materials make strong, lightweight wheels that offer a sleek look. There are many more materials besides steel, so finding the right one for your truck requires research. But planning your upgrade is easy once you’ve decided and know what works best! Pick up the rims you want, remove the old ones, and get ready to install them on your truck.
Choose Installation Method
Upgrading and working on vehicles can be a fun way to spend time, but think about the difficulty level of any particular installation before deciding to install them yourself or take the truck to a mechanic. Once you’ve found the best rims for your F-150 or other truck, it’s time to get them on your vehicle. You only need a good set of tools and some mechanical expertise to install new rims on your car. The first step in installing new rims is to carefully remove the old ones. If you need help, consult your car’s owner’s manual or take it to a shop for assistance. The tools you’ll need for the job range from tire levers to socket wenches. Don’t forget the jack! To change the rims, remove the old tires. Put the tires on the new rims and air them up. Use an air compressor to get the job done. That’s pretty much it. It’s easy enough to install the tires yourself, but if you’re uncertain or want a professional touch, just take it to your favorite mechanic. After that, take your truck for a spin and show off your new stylish wheels!
Featured Image by F. Muhammad from Pixabay
