What is the difference between backspacing and offset

This is why offset and backspacing is an important measurement to make note of when purchasing. Now for the difference between Backspacing and Offset. Backspacing is measured from the back plane of the wheel to the hub face of the wheel. Offset is measured from the middle of the wheel, to where the hub face is located, which can either be a positive or negative value. Negative making the wheel sit further out, Positive making the wheel sit further in.

Offset is also sometimes indicated as ET. The 0 measurement indicates that the hub face of the wheel mounts dead center, in terms of the width of the wheel. The same wheel measured using backspacing would be as such: 16x8, 4 inch backspace. Hopefully this helps those that are a bit confused. For further questions do not hesitate to shoot us an email!

These measurements help determine which wheels are compatible with which vehicles, so you will need to be aware of them if you decide to install aftermarket wheels. To properly understand wheel offset, you must first know the basic characteristics of a wheel assembly. Millimeters are used as the standard unit to describe offset, which can be positive, zero, or negative.

Every vehicle has a specific offset. Modern front wheel drive vehicles usually have positive offset, while older or customized vehicles may have a negative offset. 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. Depending on the amount of lift, tire size, and other specific vehicle options, all of those wheels could work on that vehicle.

Offset and backspacing can either make or break the look of your vehicle, but they have a much more important role than that. They allow the suspension and tires to work in concert with each other. Higher backspacing can cause suspension clearance issues, such as rubbing of control arms or insufficient ball joint clearance. Many lift kit manufacturers today have very specific offset and backspacing specifications. They have determined the optimal wheel and tire fitment for your vehicle- most of the time, it is best to stick to their guidelines.

All in all, it is best to determine the style of wheel you want, and having the experts at OK 4 Wheel Drive pick out the best combination of offset and backspacing for your application! Our Pros wrapped up a Tundra build that is sure to turn heads while going down the road.

The Tundra got the big three upgrades: Suspension, wheels and tires and.