Mounting wheels with a different bolt pattern than your car’s hubs can seem daunting. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of successfully fitting 5×112 wheels onto 5×114.3 hubs, using the example of installing Borbet Type A wheels on a Foxbody Mustang. We’ll cover key considerations like wheel offsets, hub bore modifications, and the innovative solution of PCD variation nuts (wobble nuts).
Understanding the Challenge: 5×112 vs. 5×114.3
The primary challenge lies in the difference between the 5×112 bolt pattern (common on European cars like Mercedes) and the 5×114.3 bolt pattern (found on many Japanese and American vehicles). Directly bolting a 5×112 wheel onto a 5×114.3 hub is impossible without modification. Redrilling wheels is generally discouraged due to safety concerns. This guide explores a safer and more effective alternative.
Assessing Wheel Offsets and Hub Bore
Before attempting any modifications, it’s crucial to check if the wheel offsets are compatible with your vehicle. Aggressive offsets may require additional adjustments to avoid rubbing. In this case, the Borbet Type A wheels had a +26mm offset in the front (18×8.5″) and +16mm in the rear (18×10″).
The hub bore, the central hole in the wheel, also needs consideration. The SN95 Mustang hubs used in this project have a 70mm hub bore, while the Borbet wheels have a 66mm bore. This discrepancy necessitates machining the hub bore to 70mm for a proper fit.
The Solution: PCD Variation Nuts (Wobble Nuts)
PCD variation nuts, commonly known as wobble nuts, offer a clever solution for bridging the gap between 5×112 and 5×114.3 bolt patterns. These specialized nuts feature a floating mechanism that allows for a slight offset (up to 2mm), enabling the nut to engage correctly with the threads on the 5×114.3 hub while accommodating the 5×112 wheel’s bolt holes. Sourcing the correct thread pitch (1/2″ UNF in this instance) is crucial.
Final Results and Tire Fitment
Using wobble nuts, the 5×112 Borbet Type A wheels were successfully mounted on the Foxbody Mustang with the modified 5×114.3 hubs. The final setup included 245/35/18 tires in the front and 285/30/18 tires in the rear, requiring rolled and pulled fenders for clearance.
Conclusion: Making 5×112 to 5×114.3 Work
Adapting 5×112 wheels to 5×114.3 hubs is achievable with careful planning and the use of PCD variation nuts. This method eliminates the need for potentially risky wheel redrilling. Remember to consider wheel offsets, hub bore compatibility, and source the correct wobble nuts with the appropriate thread pitch for a safe and successful installation. Always consult with a qualified professional if you have any doubts or concerns.
