Wheel Bolts and Lug Centric Wheel Installation

Question:

Hi, In a previous answer CV to another Customer https://www.etrailer.com/question-27849.html You described the hub centric and lug centric difference. I und er rand the difference, but IF he was able to get the wheel bolts lined up, whats the difference? Wouldnt the wheel bolts leave the hub centered once they were started? Where could it wander?

asked by: Tom H

Helpful Expert Reply:

If the Loadstar ST175/80D13 Bias Trailer Tire with 13" White Wheel # AM3S120 is most commonly centered on the hub using the lug studs and lug nuts then there is no issue with the pilot hole diameter as long as it fits over the hub. The wheel will fit the hub and won't wander because it is held firmly in place at the 4 hole locations.

It is very similar for the wheel bolts you referenced. The wheel bolts when started and tightened evenly will also allow you center the wheel using the lug bolts if the pilot hole is larger than the hub as you stated. It is more common for the wheel bolt hubs to use the hub to help center the wheel because of the tire weight and starting that bolt thread, but it isn't unheard of to center on the lug bolts.

expert reply by: Jason S