Is Pilot Hole Diameter of AM30120 Wheel/Tire Combination Important

Question:

Does it matter if the rim bore hole is a little larger than the hub? Bolt pattern matches up.

asked by: Ronald J

Expert Reply:

The answer to your question will depend on how the wheel mounts to the hub.

If the wheel attaches using lug nuts, the setup is considered lug-centric and the pilot diameter isn't important (as long as the grease cap for the hub can pass through it). The wheel supports the load via the wheel studs not only hold the wheel to the hub, but also support the trailer weight.

If the wheel attaches using lug bolts, it's a hub-centric setup and most of the support for the trailer is provided by the portion of the hub that passes through the pilot hole of the wheel. The lug bolt's primary purpose is to attach the wheel to the hub. If this is the case, the diameter of the wheels pilot hole needs to be large enough so the end of the hub passes through but not so large that support isn't provided.

I've linked to a video where our resident wheel/tire expert Jeff will point out the features of the # AM30120 wheel/tire combo.

expert reply by: Mike L