When it comes to customizing your truck, especially if you are looking to replace or upgrade the wheels on your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, understanding the bolt pattern is one of the most important factors. The bolt pattern is the arrangement of the holes on the wheel that align with the corresponding studs on your vehicle’s hub. It ensures that the wheel is securely attached to the vehicle. Each vehicle has a specific bolt pattern, and for the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, it is critical to know this pattern before making any changes to your wheels or tires.
In this article, we will explore the bolt pattern 2017 dodge ram 1500in great detail. We’ll cover the specifications of the bolt pattern, why it’s important to choose the right one, how to measure your vehicle’s bolt pattern accurately, and how this information will guide you in selecting compatible wheels. By the end of this guide, you will have all the knowledge needed to confidently choose the right wheels for your truck, ensuring safety, performance, and a perfect fit.
What is a Bolt Pattern?
A bolt pattern, also referred to as a lug pattern or wheel bolt circle, refers to the number of bolts and the distance between them. It is a critical measurement that determines which wheels are compatible with your vehicle. The bolt pattern is usually expressed in a format like “5×114.3” or “6×139.7,” where the first number is the number of lugs (bolts) and the second number is the diameter of the circle formed by the bolt centers, measured in millimeters or inches.
For the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, the bolt pattern is a key specification when it comes to replacing your stock wheels with aftermarket options or simply upgrading your tires. If the bolt pattern of the new wheels doesn’t match that of your vehicle, you won’t be able to attach the wheels to the truck securely, leading to safety risks and poor performance.
Bolt Pattern of the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500
The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 comes with a 5×139.7 bolt pattern (which is equivalent to 5×5.5 inches). This means the vehicle has 5 lug bolts, and the distance between the centers of two opposite lug bolts is 139.7mm (or 5.5 inches). This specific bolt pattern is common for full-size trucks and many off-road vehicles, making it easier to find compatible wheels, whether you’re looking for stock replacements or aftermarket options.
This bolt pattern ensures that the wheels remain securely attached to the vehicle’s hub, providing stability and performance. The 5×139.7 bolt pattern is typically used in larger vehicles that need to handle heavy loads or rough terrains, like the Dodge Ram 1500. It’s also worth noting that the size of the wheel and the tire compatibility with this bolt pattern are essential considerations for ensuring the performance and appearance of your truck.
Why Is the Bolt Pattern Important?
The bolt pattern plays a significant role in how your wheels fit onto your vehicle. A proper fit ensures that the lug nuts can tighten evenly, which helps distribute the weight of the truck evenly across the wheel and improves the handling and stability of the vehicle. If you try to install wheels with the wrong bolt pattern, not only will the wheel not fit, but it can also cause serious issues like wheel detachment, vibrations, or damage to the vehicle’s suspension system.
For the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, selecting a wheel with the 5×139.7 bolt pattern ensures compatibility with your vehicle’s hub. This is particularly important when upgrading to aftermarket wheels or purchasing new tires. If you are considering changing the style of your truck’s wheels, you must match the 5×139.7 bolt pattern with your chosen wheels.
How to Measure the Bolt Pattern of the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500
While the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 has a standard 5×139.7 bolt pattern, it’s important to know how to measure the bolt pattern of any vehicle if you’re uncertain. This knowledge is helpful not just for your truck but for any other vehicles you may work on in the future. Here’s a simple way to measure the bolt pattern:
- Count the Number of Lugs: The first thing to do is count the number of lug holes on your wheel. For the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, you should see five lug holes, confirming that the wheel follows the 5-lug bolt pattern.
- Measure the Diameter: To measure the bolt circle diameter, you need to measure the distance between the center of one lug hole and the center of the lug hole directly across from it. This distance should be 139.7mm or 5.5 inches for the 2017 Ram 1500. To measure it properly, you can use a caliper or a bolt circle gauge to ensure accuracy.
- Double-Check the Measurement: It’s always a good idea to measure twice to confirm your results. If there’s any doubt about the size, use a bolt circle gauge or consult a professional to ensure your measurements are correct.
Measuring the bolt pattern ensures that you will purchase wheels that fit properly, which is crucial for the vehicle’s safety and performance. Getting an accurate measurement means you won’t face issues with wheel fitment or alignment.
Wheel Compatibility and Choosing the Right Wheels
Now that you know the bolt pattern of the 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, the next step is selecting wheels that fit this specification. When it comes to choosing wheels for your vehicle, compatibility is not only limited to the bolt pattern. Several other factors need to be considered to ensure the wheels fit properly and perform well:
- Offset and Backspacing: The offset refers to the distance between the wheel’s mounting surface and the centerline of the wheel. The backspacing is the distance between the mounting surface and the back edge of the wheel. Both the offset and backspacing affect the alignment of the wheels, tire clearance, and overall stance of the truck. For example, if you want a more aggressive look or need to accommodate larger tires, you may want to opt for a wheel with a different offset or backspacing.
- Wheel Size: The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 can accommodate a wide range of wheel sizes, depending on your needs. If you’re upgrading for performance, choosing a larger wheel with a lower profile tire can improve handling and give your truck a more aggressive look. However, if you need wheels that offer more comfort and off-road capability, a smaller diameter wheel with a larger tire may be ideal.
- Tire Compatibility: When selecting new wheels, don’t forget to consider the tires that will be mounted on them. The tire size must match the wheel size and be compatible with the specifications of your vehicle. Larger wheels may require tires with a lower profile, while smaller wheels may require tires with a higher profile. It’s important to select the right combination to ensure proper fitment, clearance, and handling.
- Material: The material of the wheel affects both its strength and weight. For example, aluminum alloy wheels are lightweight and offer great performance, but they may not be as durable as steel wheels. If you’re upgrading your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 for off-road use, you might want to opt for wheels that are specifically designed for rugged conditions. Many off-road wheels are made of heavy-duty materials that can withstand impacts and stress from tough terrains.
- Design and Style: While performance and compatibility are important, the design and style of the wheels also matter. The 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 offers a bold, muscular look, and choosing the right set of wheels can enhance that appearance. Whether you prefer a clean, classic style or a more modern, aggressive look, there are plenty of options available.
Upgrading Your Wheels: What to Consider
When upgrading your wheels, you must keep several things in mind to ensure the changes work well with your truck. If you plan to make the most of your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500’s performance or appearance, here are a few tips for a successful upgrade:
- Consider Your Driving Needs: Are you planning to use your truck primarily for off-road adventures, or will it mostly be used on highways? If you spend a lot of time on rough trails, look for wheels designed for off-road use. On the other hand, if you mainly drive on highways, performance-oriented wheels may be more suitable.
- Check the Load Rating: Every wheel has a load rating, which indicates how much weight it can support. When choosing new wheels for your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500, ensure the wheels are rated to handle the weight of the truck, especially if you plan to use the truck for heavy-duty tasks or towing.
- Alignment and Suspension: When you change your wheels, especially if you’re upgrading to larger or wider wheels, the suspension and alignment of your vehicle might be affected. Be sure to have your vehicle aligned properly after the upgrade to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure smooth driving.
- Warranty and Fitment: If your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 is still under warranty, you may want to check with the manufacturer or dealership to ensure that the new wheels won’t affect your warranty. Additionally, ensure the wheels you choose meet all the necessary specifications for proper fitment and safety.
Conclusion
Understanding the bolt pattern of your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 is the first step in ensuring you can confidently upgrade your wheels and tires. The 5×139.7 bolt pattern is standard for this vehicle, and knowing how to measure it and select compatible wheels will ensure a perfect fit. Keep in mind that factors such as offset, backspacing, and wheel size all play a role in achieving the ideal performance and appearance. By carefully considering your needs, the materials of the wheels, and tire compatibility, you can select a set of wheels that will not only enhance the look of your Ram 1500 but also improve its performance and handling.
Upgrading your wheels is a great way to personalize your vehicle and take its capabilities to the next level. With the right knowledge and the right tools, you can make a decision that will leave your 2017 Dodge Ram 1500 looking great and running smoothly for years to come.