The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline wider rims

My 58 step van rear wheels seem to sit too far in towards the frame. I think they would much better if they were about 2 more inches out. Right now I have old 16x6 split rims. I wanted to keep the vintage look and found chrome wheel covers to cover the big hubs. I found 16x7, but calculations say it would only bring tire out .40. Does anyone know of vintage/style 8 lug rims that have a backspace of 2 or 3 inches. I don't really want to use spacers. I appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

I used an 8 lug wheel from Dexter Axle for my 49 3600. I believe they are 16s but don’t know any of the other dimensions. I just took the advice of others with the same truck.

Chaz,

They make a 2” spacer that you could put in place to move your tire out easily. I had to do this once I converted to disc brakes in the front. Just a thought. They also make smaller spacers. This might help you figure out how far you want to move or widen tires.

Chris

I'm going to try a 16x8 with a half inch spacer. I think that will get me close enough.

Spacers make the front steering put more load on the tie rod, among other things, which also increases the scrub radius, wearing the tires more because they don't track as well, putting a larger load on the bearings, spindles, kingpins. On the rear just puts larger load on the axle, bearings, etc. Might also stick outside the fenders, which is illegal plus requiring cleaning the mud off more frequently.

It is best to find proper solutions.

Ed

Perhaps 16x8 on rear and 16x7 or current 16x6 on the front. There is just over 4" of space between the back tire and fender. Would half inch spacers in back make too much difference on back? I'm just looking for a better proportional look.