Tips for Replacing Car Rims Without Damaging the Suspension
Replacing car rims is now quite common. Usually, this process is carried out by car modification enthusiasts. Rims are typically replaced with larger sizes than before. For example, a 16-inch rim is replaced with an 18-inch rim.
Steps to Replace Car Rims Without Damaging the Suspension
During the rim replacement process, you also need to replace the tires with a larger diameter. This car rim replacement process should not be done carelessly. Pay attention to tips for replacing car rims without damaging the suspension to ensure safety and comfort while driving.
Adjusting Rim Size
When choosing a rim size, it must be adjusted to the standard size. This is done to ensure it fits the car body and looks simple once installed. This tip applies to all types of cars. To keep the car comfortable to drive, just add 2-3 inches to the rim size. For example, if the car rim size is 15-16 inches, it can be increased to 17 or a maximum of 18 inches. If the size exceeds that, the car will not be comfortable to drive.
Recognizing Rim Materials
The materials commonly used to make rims are generally lightweight metals. These materials include billet steel, metal alloys, and magnesium. Among these materials, most are lighter than rims made of steel. If you use lighter rims, the advantage is that it can reduce the overall weight of the car. Of course, this does not neglect the durability of the rims. If the overall weight of the car decreases, it will affect the engine's performance. The engine will not be too heavy to turn the wheels and operate the braking system.
Choosing the Right Tire Profile
Choosing the right tires when replacing rims will affect driving comfort and safety. Tires with too thin a profile can damage the rim lip if they hit a pothole. Not only that, but a thin tire profile will make the damping system feel stiff. In addition to being thin, a tire tread dimension that is too wide will disrupt the car's handling. Therefore, you should also choose the right tire profile during the car rim replacement process.
Checking the Rim's Original Offset (ET)
Offset or ET is the dimension of the distance between the center part and the outer part of the rim. The offset size will determine the safe and aesthetically pleasing installation of the rim. If the offset used is not suitable, it will appear too recessed inward or outward from the wheel space. Of course, this reduces the aesthetic value of the car. Not only that, but it will also affect driving safety as it is prone to rubbing against other components.
Using PCD that Matches the Car's Specifications
PCD stands for Pitch Center Diameter, which is the layout and size of the wheel bolts. If the car's PCD is 4 x 100, it means your car uses a wheel bolt construction of four bolts, and the distance between the bolts is 100 mm. Some common PCD sizes applied to cars include 4 x 100, 4 x 114, 5 x 100, and 6 x 139.7 mm. Once you know the PCD being used, it is not recommended to change the car's original PCD.
After knowing the tips for replacing car rims without damaging the suspension, you should also entrust the rim replacement process to an expert. Installation done by an expert will result in car rims that are comfortable, safe, and of course, aesthetic. The tips above can be applied to all car products, including Daihatsu.
