When you are purchasing car wheels, it is best to choose steel wheels and alloy wheels. While the alloy wheels are much lighter, they cannot compete with the durability and strength of steel wheels. Even if alloy wheels are the common choice for most car manufacturers, many car enthusiasts choose steel wheels because of their reduced strength and cost.
Steel wheels are much heavier compared to alloy wheels, weighing 3 times more. It makes them a great option for shoppers wanting to enjoy savings when replacing the wheels of their vehicles. Their heavy weight lowers the gravity’s center of the car, yet it isn’t ideal for those who want a car with acceleration and agility. On the bright side, the extra weight makes the car more controllable during winter conditions. When looking for steel wheels, buyers must check out the available options before making their final decision. They must also learn the different widths and diameters, how such differences relate to one another and how to purchase steel wheels.
The Basics of a Steel Wheel
When it comes to a steel wheel, there are some terms that could affect your decision when purchasing. It includes the bolt pattern, overall size, wheel’s offset, and desired finish. Below are some of the things to consider:
- Rim Width
The rim width of a steel wheel is the measurement from the interior of the outside rim flange to the interior of inside rim flange. The rim widths may range from 4” tot 14”.
- Rim Diameter
The rim size of a steel wheel is the wheel’s diameter where the tire’s bead sits on the wheel. The common diameters of wheels range from 13” to 20”. In many cases, purchase steel wheels, which conform to your car’s load capacity as determined in big part by the number of the lugs, the PCD or pitch center of diameter, and kind of axle used. Generally, the bigger your car is, the bigger the wheel’s load capacity requirements. Every wheel has load capacity stamped at the back of your wheel.
When selecting a steel wheel, buyers have to take note of the car they have for the reason that there is a specific range on rim width, which may be mounted as well as retain a certain level of safety while being driven. Purchasing steel wheels with width that’s very small for cars in questions may result for poor performance. It can also lead to tire and wheel failure.
Finishes to Choose From
Aside from the different sizes, bolt patterns, and offsets, the steel wheels have different finishes available. Whether it is chromed finish, polished, machined, or painted, buyers should choose the wheels with the finish that is suited to what they need.
The Bottom Line
Another thing that you should take note when buying steel wheels is the size. Although it is a good idea to consider the standard size, it’s also possible to alter sizes, yet you have to make sure that safety concerns should be prioritized.