'87 BII wheel spacers

[RGeezy]

I got a 1987 Bronco 2 and was looking to get a set of 2 inch wheel spacers. Been looking for a while and cannot find a definitive answer on the hub bore and if its lug centric or hub centric. Appreciate any answers, advice, or a link to spacers that would work for me Thanks.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Ever consider a set of 8 inch wide wheels with a 3.75 inch backspace?

That will put the outside of the tire 1 3/4 inch wider then stock. A far better alternative to wheel spacers.

 

[RGeezy]

I just bought a set of wheels for it and don't want to pick up another set

 

[JoshT]

I'd suggest the wheels too as first choice, but I've got spacers on a few things so not knocking them either.

You'll want lug centric, which is fine for a Ranger. That just means that it centers on the lug nuts. Hub centric means that it centers on the hub itself.

Stock wheels had a 70.6mm center bore to clear the hub. You'll want a spacer that has atleast as large. If you can get the same that is great, but it won't hurt if it's a little larger.

Most important thing is installing the spacers properly and ensuring that they stay that way. After installation, make sure you pull the wheel regularly and ensure that the spacer nuts are staying tight. Lug nuts can loosen over time, even the ones holding the spacer to the axle. BTDT and still willing to run them.

 

[RGeezy]

Thanks so much for the quick replays. Out of curiosity, is there a problem with spacers that makes you recommend wheels over spacers?

 

[4x4junkie]

What wheels are you trying to fit on it? Do you know what amount their offset is?

Asking because the spacers might be OK if the wheels you have have a very large positive offset (deep backspacing), but otherwise I would not suggest using 2" spacers. Reason is the front wheel bearings are not real tolerant of a lot of leverage on them. If the wheels stick out too far, you'll be chewing up bearings.

 

[RGeezy]

They are just the stock aluminum wheels (The original wheels that were on it were chewed up like it was drove without tires and would not hold air. My buddy had those laying around and gave them to me free). if 2 inches is too much would 1.5 or 1 be good?

 

[JoshT]

Out of curiosity, is there a problem with spacers that makes you recommend wheels over spacers?

What @4x4junkie said about bearings is one issue, because it puts more stress on the bearings. If you use wheels that give the same fgitment without spacers, you will encounter the same issue. In that respect wheels vs spacers is about the same.

Bigger issue is strength. No matter how you look at it, the wheel bolted to the spacer, bolted to the hub, will not be as strong of a connection as the wheel bolted directly to the hub. It is also introduces another potential failure point, be it human or material. When you consider the movements of the front wheel during travel, stresses and forces are being applied in a lot of directions.

Wheel bolted directly to hub will always be the better and stronger connection.

Also, if they are factory Ranger aluminum wheels, I don't think you want 2" spacers, that'll push the wheel way out there and probably look funny with the relatively narrow tire that will fit those wheels. Potentially cause tire rubbing on the fender too. I think the most I'd run with those wheels is maybe 1" spacer in the front, and I think a 1/2" spacer would them sitting great without being too much.

If you take that suggestion with the 1/2" spacer, those typically slip on and don't have studs. You'll want to use an ET style lug nut with then to ensure proper thread engagement.


Edit: As an example (a rather extreme example), this accident was likely caused by a failed wheel spacer and/or a wheel with excessive offset. Whether it was a spacer itself that failed or a wheel bearing is up for debate. It's seems to be pretty well agreed that the additional stresses from the wheel and tire being pushed out like that caused failure.

 

[4x4junkie]

Strongly suggest you get quality spacers, and yes, 1.25" max. (Bora and Spidertrax are both good). Cheap spacers (less than $100 or so /pair) from the likes of Ebay or Amazon very often are fitted with inferior wheel studs that can break off. Them being machined off-center is another possibility.
Like was said above, a wheel with the correct offset will always be better mechanically than one that needs a spacer. I do realize though, occasionally it's not possible to find a wheel with the correct offset that has a design you like, so just be aware of the additional steps needed to keep them safe (making sure all the nuts are tight, etc.) and you should be fine.

 

[RGeezy]

Thanks a bunch! I'll take everything into consideration. I really appreciate the quick feedback.