Have you bought new wheels for your Ram 1500 and they don’t quite fit? Or do you want a wider stance and a sportier look? If so, wheel spacers are the answer. By adding some space between the wheel hub and the wheel itself, you can customize the aesthetics of your Ram 1500.
But with several varieties and manufacturers available, choosing the ideal wheel spacer isn’t always easy. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about wheel spacers and some of the best options on the market.
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Comparison of the Best Wheel Spacers For Ram 1500
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What Are Wheel Spacers? What Do Wheel Spacers Do?
Wheel spacers aren’t something that every driver needs, especially for Ram 1500s that are primarily used as a work truck. However, other drivers that use their truck as a passenger vehicle or want aesthetic appeal may look to wheel spacers to provide the look they desire.
In addition, Ram 1500 owners that purchase oversize tires may require wheel spacers to avoid the tire rubbing against fender flares and wheel wells. Finally, wheel spacers may also be necessary to accommodate big brake kits with larger calipers than the stock ones.
How Do Wheel Spacers Work?
Available in both slip-on and bolt-on varieties, wheel spacers slip over the bolts of the wheel hub. This effectively pushes the wheel further away from the body of the vehicle. By pushing the wheel further out, the Ram 1500 has a wider stance, which can boost aesthetics, accommodate off-road tires, and even help with cornering and overall handling.
Are Wheel Spacers Universal?
Although wheel spacers can come in universal varieties at retail auto parts stores, buyers should take note: the thickness is what matters most. While almost all wheel spacers will fit onto your wheel hub, the thickness is the greatest determinant of whether the component will work for your Ram 1500. Spacers usually range in thickness from ⅛-inch to 1 inch (3 mm to 25 mm) for sports cars and 1 inch to 2 inches for trucks such as the Ram 1500.
When is it Time to Replace My Wheel Spacers?
No surefire sign exists on when to replace your wheel spacers. Cheap wheel spacers may not have a zinc coating, which makes them susceptible to rust. In this scenario, you should check your wheel spacers for rust when you replace your tires or repair/replace your braking system.
Furthermore, you don’t necessarily need to replace your wheel spacers unless you’re planning on changing the size of your wheels and need a new fitment.
How to Measure for Wheel Spacers
Because a slight variation in thickness can adversely affect desired wheel clearance and aesthetics, measuring for wheel spacers is essential. The best method for this measurement is by using washers:
- Purchase around 40 or 50 washers that will fit over each wheel bolt/ wheel stud
- Remove the wheel
- Place the washers on each wheel bolt (or wheel stud)
- Put the wheel back on
- Add or subtract washers on each wheel until the desired spacing is found
- Stack the washers together
- Measure with a caliper (the tool, not your brakes!)
And once you’ve completed these tasks, you should have the exact or approximate thickness of the wheel spacer you need.
An alternative method is look at pictures on forums or other online resources that confirm what size spacer the picture is showing. Only consider pictures with OEM wheels on the truck, as an aftermarket wheel will have a different offset, which can have the same effect as a wheel spacer.
What Size Wheel Spacers Do I Need?
As mentioned, the size of your tire or the desired look will determine the size of the wheel spacer you need. The measuring system mentioned above may take some trial and error to find the right thickness required.
But you should never put more than one spacer on a tire for additional thickness. If you buy a wheel spacer that’s too thin, return it and buy a thicker one.
How Do I Choose Wheel Spacers?
Because wheel spacers come in a variety of options, you should consider the following aspects when choosing your wheel spacer.
Slip-on vs Bolt-on
For Ram 1500 owners, bolt-on wheel spacers are probably the better option. These wheel spacers are thicker, providing more clearance for oversized tires generally preferred by off-roaders or big truck enthusiasts. On the other hand, slip-on wheel spacers are more economical, but they may not have the thickness desired to handle larger tires.
Hubcentric Wheel Spacers
Another important facet of choosing your wheel spacer is whether it’s hubcentric. Hubcentric wheel spacers do a better job of centering the wheel around the hub because they have a small lip that fits around the hub. By purchasing hubcentric wheel spacers, you can avoid vibrations that can be associated with non-hubcentric wheel spacers. Generally, it’s a better idea to get hubcentric spacers if you can find them.
Additional Hardware
If you require more thickness to your spacer for any reason, remember that you’re probably going to need some additional hardware. Wheel spacers thicker than about ⅕-inch (5 mm) typically require longer wheel studs for proper safety. So, you’ll have to pull the original wheel bolts out and install longer ones to accommodate the wheel. While this isn’t an overly difficult procedure, knowing this ahead of time can save you a trip to the auto parts store.
Review of the Best Wheel Spacers For Ram 1500
Now that you have a basic idea of how wheel spacers work, what type you need, and how to measure them, it’s time to select the best wheel spacer for your Ram 1500.
Here are some of the top options available, spanning an array of thicknesses, budgets, and tastes.
Best Overall:Supreme Suspensions 1.5 inch Hub Centric Wheel Spacers
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PROS
- No balancing issues reported
- No need to replace studs
- Made of aircraft-grade aluminum
- Hubcentric for improved centering
- Excellent handling without vibrations
CONS
- Some users have reported not having enough thread to be safe, which depends on your wheels
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers report that these wheel spacers are easy to install and are of the highest quality. Even after a few thousand miles, the spacers didn’t cause any problems. However, others reported that they had to cut off a small amount of the wheel stud for proper fitting, while some buyers report that they’re too short.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Made from airplane-grade aluminum and featuring hydraulically pre-pressed studs, Supreme Suspensions 1.5-inch Hubcentric Wheel Spacers are a quintessential choice for a Ram 1500. Plus, Supreme Suspensions throws in a bottle opener and stickers with each set of wheel hubs so you can enjoy a cold one after installation.
Bottom Line
Durable and easy to install, Supreme Suspensions 1.5-inch Hubcentric wheel spacers provide a commendable look to the Ram 1500 without any complications. But at a higher price point than other products, budget-conscious buyers may want to look elsewhere. In addition, the 1.5-inch spacing may not be enough for some larger tires.
Best for the Money:APL 2” Thick Hub Centric Wheel Spacers
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PROS
- Black finish for a clean look
- Hubcentric for less chance of vibrations
- CNC machined
- Made from high-quality aluminum
- Perfect fit on newer Ram 1500 models
CONS
- Several users report manufacturer defects after short distances
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers report problems with the length of the studs or that the nuts don’t fit the studs. Other buyers praise the affordability of the product, especially due to the quality they saw in the construction.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For the price, few other wheel spacers compare, especially for a bolt-on hubcentric option. And with a black finish, the overall aesthetic is second great!
Bottom Line
Bargain hunters, rejoice. At half the price of most other wheel spacers, APL 2” Thick Hubcentric Wheel Spacers are the ultimate value buy. However, the brand is relatively new. Those searching for a more reputable name may want to try a more famous alternative.
Best 2 Inch Wheel Spacers For Dodge Ram 1500:Richeer 2” Forged Wheel Spacers for 12-18 Ram 1500
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PROS
- Directions included for novice installers
- Made from forged steel for enhanced durability
- Pre-pressed studs reduce or eliminate vibrations
- 2-inch thickness accommodates most oversized tires
- Comes with torque specifications for proper tightening
CONS
- Provided nuts don’t fit the Ram 1500 bolts in some years
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers report that Richeer 2” Forged Wheel Spacers provide a stunning aesthetic while also easily accommodating larger tires. However, other buyers state a bevy of problems such as vibrations, brake noises, and trouble removing them if necessary.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Richeer wheel spacers provide an affordable choice for Ram 1500 owners. Thanks to forged steel construction, they’re also one of the most durable options available. We were unable to find any specs on the hardware construction though.
Bottom Line
Well-crafted and durable, Richeer 2” Forged Wheel Spacers provide everything that buyers want in one affordable package. Despite its upsides, other buyers may want to choose a different option based on potential fitment issues or damage to wheel hubs.
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4. GDSMOTU 2” Wheel Spacers for 12-18 Ram 1500
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PROS
- Easy installation
- Durable and high quality
- Provides an aggressive look
- Heat-treated studs for additional safety
- 2-inch thickness works for many larger tires
CONS
- May not work with tires larger than 35 inches
- Some users report that the bolts cracked
What Recent Buyers Report
Many buyers report that these wheel spacers provide an awesome look thanks to the black paint job. Plus, they’re easy to install, hubcentric, and accommodate many types of larger alloy wheels and tires.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With a price tag that’s far less than many competitors, the GDSMOTU 2” Wheel Spacers are an affordable choice for your Ram 1500. Some may question the quality due to the low price though.
Bottom Line
For thrifty buyers, few other wheel spacers will provide such great value without a dent in quality. But those with oversized tires may need a thicker wheel spacer to avoid rubbing against the wheel well.
Best 1 Inch Wheel Spacers For Dodge Ram 1500:ZY Wheel 1” Thick Wheel Spacers
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PROS
- Better handling
- Works well with stock tires
- Black finish for a striking look
- No need for stud modification
- Awesome aesthetic reported from buyers
CONS
- Poor customer service reported with the brand
- 1-inch thick spacer may not be thick enough to accommodate some bigger tires
What Recent Buyers Report
At just 1-inch thickness, these wheels don’t work well with oversized tires. But those looking to add an aggressive stance to their stock wheels report satisfaction with the purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A low price point for 1-inch thick aluminum wheel spacers isn’t all that common. And with little to no fitment issues or modifications necessary, these are ready to slap in place without any problems.
Bottom Line
For those that want to improve the look of their Ram 1500 without purchasing bigger wheels or tires or being overly showy, the ZY Wheel 1” Thick Wheel Spacers should do the trick. Ram 1500 owners with larger tires should opt for 1.5- or 2-inch options.
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Wheel Spacer Pros and Cons
While wheel spacers have their advantages, they may also have some drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of. By noting both the upsides and downsides, you can make a better decision of whether or not wheel spacers are ideal for your needs.
Pros
- Accommodate larger tires
- Can help handling and cornering
- Improves the overall aesthetic of your truck
- Allows for an easier installation of big brake kits
Cons
- Heavier wheel spacers can make steering more difficult
- Cheaper (non-hubcentric) wheel spacers can cause potential safety issues
- May cause vibrations when driving
Wheel Spacer Safety
Plenty of controversies exists about wheel spacer safety. However, most of these issues are only problematic with cheaply made parts. But to put your mind at ease and ensure maximum safety, here are some safety tips to consider.
Supreme Suspensions 1.5 inch Hub Centric Kit
Melting Point
Cheap wheel spacers are often made of metals with low melting points. As a result, they can’t handle the high temperatures produced from braking and friction. In extreme cases, some buyers have even reported a cheap wheel spacer melting to the wheel hub. Therefore, you shouldn’t purchase wheel spacers based on price alone. Weigh the trade-off between price and quality. For example, spacers made of aircraft-grade aluminum will eliminate the threat of melting or adhering to the wheel hub.
Hubcentric Considerations
Another safety concern of wheel spacers centers around hubcentric options, or lack thereof. Hubcentric wheel spacers distribute the weight of the vehicle on the wheel hub, whereas non-hubcentric options put the weight on the wheel studs/bolts. As a result, these bolts can bend, causing vibrations or more serious safety concerns.
One Spacer Per Wheel
Many users report using more than one wheel spacer per wheel. But this can lead to some serious issues. Not only is your truck more likely to vibrate when driving, but it can also impact the handling. That’s why manufacturers make wheel spacers in different thicknesses. It may be cheaper to use several thinner wheel spacers, but spring for the extra money for the sake of safety.
Proper Wheel Bolts/Wheel Studs
If you opt for a thicker wheel spacer on your Ram 1500, make sure that the wheel studs or lug nuts are long enough to handle the additional thickness. You may have to switch these studs out for longer ones, but doing so is crucial. If you don’t have enough thread for the lug nuts to go back on, you risk the wheel falling off.
Types of Wheel Spacers
Because wheel spacers have applications on every type of vehicle from a Ram 1500 to street racing cars, they come in numerous varieties. Here are some of those variations.
Steel Wheel Spacers vs Aluminum Wheel Spacers
As a stronger metal than aluminum, steel wheel spacers provide unmatched strength and durability. However, this comes with a trade-off. Steel wheel spacers have a stronger tendency to rust compared to aluminum, and many users report that steering and handling aren’t as sharp.
Conversely, aluminum wheel spacers are much lighter, providing better handling than their steel counterparts. In addition, aluminum variants are less susceptible to corrosion. However, aluminum is a softer metal, meaning that these types of wheel spacers may undergo more wear and tear and need replacement sooner than steel.
Hubcentric Wheel Spacers vs Non-Hubcentric Wheel Spacers
Hubcentric wheel spacers are products that place the weight of the vehicle on the wheel hub and axle. This ensures less vibration and improved driving stability. Non-hubcentric wheel spacers place the weight of the vehicle on the bolts/studs, inflicting stress on them, even to the point of bending in severe cases. But the biggest drawback of non-hubcentric wheel spacers are the vibrations that can detract from handling and cause significant vibrations.
How to Remove Wheel Spacers on a Ram 1500
If you’ve noticed corrosion or you’re putting on new tires and need to change the wheels spacers on your Ram 1500. Sometimes this is as easy as removing the wheel and sliding or unbolting the spacer. But if it’s a slip-on and it’s seized up or stuck, here are some tips to get the wheel spacer off.
- Make sure to grab suitable gloves and purchase a hand torch from a local hardware store.
- Heat the wheel spacer. Make sure not to apply heat for too long or the spacer can warp.
- Wedge a screwdriver between the spacer and the hub and tap lightly with a handheld sledge.
- Repeat this process around the edge of the spacer. Eventually, it should pop off.
- Remove the corrosion around the hub with a wire brush or coarse sandpaper before placing the new wheel spacer on.
For a visual representation of how to change the wheel spacers on a Ram 1500, follow the link below:
How to Install Wheel Spacers on a Ram 1500
If you’re putting on new wheel spacers or replacing old ones, follow these steps to successfully install the wheel spacers on a Ram 1500.
- Loosen the lug nuts.
- Jack the truck up and remove the wheel you’re working on.
- Place the wheel spacer on the wheel hub.
- Secure each wheel spacer using about 90 lb-ft of torque.
- Put the wheel back on and secure the wheel back into place with lugs.
- Lower the jack.
For more information on the types of tools you’ll need and a visual interpretation of how to install wheel spacers, check out the video below:
Don’t Space Out When it Comes to Wheel Spacers
While wheel spacers have both practical and aesthetic applications, don’t space out when installing them. Make sure you complete the installation correctly, only use high-quality products, and ensure the proper safety steps to ensure a solid driving experience and a look that will make you proud to own a Ram 1500.
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People Also Ask
The idea of a wheel spacer is mostly straightforward, but people also ask other questions to alleviate their concerns. Here are some of the most common questions.
What Are Hub Centric Wheel Spacers?
Hubcentric wheel spacers mount flush with the wheel hub to ensure that the weight of the vehicle is distributed along with the hub and axle rather than the wheel studs and bolts.
Are Wheel Spacers Bad?
When installed properly, wheel spacers provide improved handling and an alluring look to your Ram 1500.
What Do Wheel Spacers Do For Trucks?
Wheel spacers are generally placed on trucks to accommodate larger tires, such as off-roading tires or snow tires. They may also be used for larger alloy wheels.
Do I Need to Get an Alignment After Wheel Spacers?
No, you don’t need an alignment after installing wheels spacers because you aren’t changing anything with the suspension.
Can Wheel Spacers Cause Death Wobble?
Generally, wheel spacers shouldn’t cause death wobble or an uncontrollable vibration of the vehicle. The only way that wheel spacers would be the culprit is if the wheel spacers somehow put the tires out of balance.
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