Hubcentruc Rings

flickerphil · #1 (**permalink**) 09-25-2006, 06:14 PM

Since being new to rim buying I got lug centric rims instead of hubcentric (didnt find out until the vibrating started). Since Honda wouldnt help, they referred me to a tire place. When I asked if they could order me hubcentric rings (as I found out what was needed), they said to call the place where I got the rims. When I did call the sales rep asked me what the hub measurements were. I didnt know so I called Tire Rack who sd they are 73.1 mm outside & 56.1 inside. I then asked if he could order a set of 4 for me. I was again told to call the rim place where I bought them. Why ?? I did call the rim guy again & he said he would send them out. Should have them soon. My gripe is, why couldnt tire shop or Tire Rack just send me the rings when it seems to be a standard size on based on my Web search???

The rims are 15" on 195/55 tires 4x100.

MINI-Fit · #2 (**permalink**) 09-26-2006, 03:25 AM

For hubcentric rims you need two measurements.

One is the OEM hub bore which seems to be 56.1mm which is fairly common. Some rims can come with that size and if so they will fit without needing any ring.

Then there are aftermarket rims that have various hubbores usually on the larger size so that they can fit a variety of cars. 73.1 is common but there are many others.

Not all people agree that hubcentric rings are needed so they don't always offer them to buyers. I think it is always good to have the ring which seats the rim on the hub with a good fit and even distribution of weight. This makes it easier to mount the rim on the hub and get on the lugs or nuts.

Rings come in a variety of materials from alumium/metal to hard plastic. For street use the plastic is ok while for the track I like the metal to resist heat.

Make sure when you get them you check that the rings fit perfectly. Tirerack is usually good about including the rings for your size if you ask for them. Wheel specialty shops also offer the rings but sometimes they are expensive about $25 a set of four.

jim@tirerack · #3 (**permalink**) 09-30-2006, 04:41 PM

We supply them for no charge if they are needed for the application. Every wheel we send out will be hubcentric either with the ring or drilled specific. The reason we can't just send out a ring is the ring is made specific for the wheel and the car. Every wheel is made differently so you just can't send a ring. Sorry we could not help.
If you ever have a question like that just give me a call or email.