1-866-822-8777  |  Contact Us
Quick Order Catalogs Order History & Status Invoices Help Center
0
My Cart $-.--
Shop by Category
Quick Order
0
Home Under The Hood Wheels vs. Rims: Clearing Up the Confusion for Heavy-Duty Trucks

Wheels vs. Rims: Clearing Up the Confusion for Heavy-Duty Trucks

3817_Blog_Image.jpg

When it comes to maintaining and upgrading commercial vehicles, understanding the differences between wheels and rims is essential. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to distinct parts of the wheel assembly. This article breaks down the key components, types, and maintenance considerations for heavy-duty truck and bus wheels.

Wheels vs. Rims: What’s the Difference?

A wheel is the complete assembly that includes the rim, tire, and hub. The rim, on the other hand, is the flat, circular section that holds the tire in place. Its primary function is to seal and support the tire.

Types of Commercial Vehicle Wheels

Heavy-duty trucks and buses primarily use two types of wheels:

Key Wheel Dimensions & Load Capacity

Wheels are classified by their dimensions and load-carrying capacity. Some essential measurements include:

Each wheel is designed to support a specific weight limit, typically measured in kilograms or pounds and stamped on the wheel for reference.

Hub Piloted vs. Stud Piloted Disc Wheels

Commercial trucks use two types of disc wheels for securing to the hub:

Why Hub Piloted Wheels Are Preferred:

Proper Wheel Installation & Maintenance

To prevent warping and uneven clamping force, a star-pattern tightening sequence should be used when securing wheels. Regular inspection of hub seals and lubricant levels is also crucial to maintain wheel integrity.

Additionally, wheel hubs contain bearings that reduce friction between the axle and the rotating wheel. Wheel seals help retain oil or grease and block contaminants like dirt and water from entering the hub.

For vehicles with dual tires on cast spoke wheels, rim spacers are used to distribute clamping force evenly across both rims, ensuring stability and longevity.

Conclusion

Understanding commercial vehicle wheels and rims helps ensure the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of these critical components. Whether choosing cast spoke hubs for off-road durability or hub piloted disc wheels for efficiency, selecting the right wheels improves performance, safety, and longevity on the road.

Need help finding the right wheels for your truck? Contact a Parts for Trucks location today for expert advice and a wide selection of commercial truck wheels and rims.