Backspacing

[Ryan_Robinson]

So I found a set of 4 18x7 wheels off a 2005 Ford Freestyle with the same bold pattern as my 93 Ranger and I want to buy them, but the backspacing is 52mm, or 2.04 inches. Does anybody know if these wheels will work? And also, whats the tire code for 18x7s? Im looking for a 225-235.

 

[Jay FX4]

I would think that 52mm would be the offset, making the backspacing about 5 inches. Not positive though, since the Freestyle is front wheel drive, and FWD vehicles wheels typically have offset/BS totally different than RWD vehicles.

 

[Ryan_Robinson]

Yeah im not too sure what the guy is talking about in the add, but im gonna head down to shwabs tomorrow just to ask so i dont end up driving an hour, buying the wheels, and having them not work out.

 

[JohnnyO]

I would think that 52mm would be the offset, making the backspacing about 5 inches. Not positive though, since the Freestyle is front wheel drive, and FWD vehicles wheels typically have offset/BS totally different than RWD vehicles.

FWD cars typically have positive offset wheels, where the hub surface is closer to the outer side of the rim. RWD cars and trucks typically have zero to slightly negative offset where the hub surface is centered compared to the rim width or slightly to the back side of the rim. Therefore, if you put FWD rims on a RWD vehicle the tires will be tucked in closer to the body and may rub on the inside, if they don't look totally silly anyway. RWD rims on a FWD car will stick way out, it won't handle well, and again probably look totally silly (think compact FWD lowriders).

 

[Ryan_Robinson]

So would spacers solve the problem of them being too close to the hub and rubbing?

 

[JohnnyO]

So would spacers solve the problem of them being too close to the hub and rubbing?

Yes.

 

[Ryan_Robinson]

Alright sounds good, i wont need spacers in the back though right? Except to keep it from looking strange?

 

[JohnnyO]

Probably.