What is wheel backspacing

Attachments Door Parts Mirrors. Brake Kits Brake Hoses. Full Size Cooling Parts. Shifters Transfer Cases Transmission. Battery Parts Lenses.

Engine Parts Performance Parts. Full Size Fuel Parts. Dash Seat Belts Seat Covers. Full Size Light Parts. Hi-Lift Jacks Recovery Gear. Brake Parts. Cooling Parts. Axles Differentials Differential Covers. Battery Parts Performance Ignition. Engine Parts. Offset is the amount usually measured in millimeters of distance that the mounting surface of the wheel is away from the centerline of the wheel. Offset can be positive or negative- positive offset is forward towards the outer face of the wheel and negative offset is backwards towards the inner face of the wheel.

Depending on the type of vehicle, the tire size desired, the stance, and the type of wheel, offset will affect all of this. Many vehicle owners like the aggressive look of a negative offset, but it can be an issue on some vehicles.

Backspacing is the cousin of offset. Backspacing is the amount usually measured in inches of distance that the mounting surface of the wheel is away from the inner edge of the wheel. Backspacing is usually a positive number, but in certain circumstances, like on a dually pickup truck, it can be negative. The amount of backspacing a wheel has can significantly alter the position of the wheel on a vehicle.

For example, on a Ford F, the stock 18x8 inch wheels has a 6. This wheel backspacing is good for a stock sized tire, and keeps the wheel and tire combination inside the fender. Many aftermarket wheels will have a different backspacing- for example, and 18x9 Fuel Hostage could have a 5. Correct backspacing allows enough room for the suspension, brake, and steering systems to operate without interference from the wheel. Positive offset creates more backspace, while negative offset reduces backspace.

The example shown here is 6 inches wide with a 3 inch backspacing. This would be the equivalent to a zero offset wheels since the mounting surface aligns with the centerline of the wheel. Understanding Wheel Offset and Backspacing It takes precise measurement to make sure your wheels and tires fit properly in the wheel well, without rubbing against the fender or vehicle components.