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ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Technical Discussion - Beginner / Repair => Topic started by: dblcola on September 04, 2011, 06:45:24 PM

Title: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: dblcola on September 04, 2011, 06:45:24 PM

I'd like to score some used aluminum rims for my 1987 Samurai. Can anybody tell me what are the most popular rims to look for? Thanks

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: wildgoody on September 04, 2011, 06:57:05 PM

Anything that is 5 on 5.5 will work, but aluminum rims can
cause the tire bead to slip with low air pressure when you
are wheeling, something to think about.

I like the rims with the 5 large holes in them, I see them
a lot on Heeps, but the right pattern will work on our Zuks

Wild

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: tuxblacray on September 04, 2011, 07:19:13 PM

(http://inlinethumb48.webshots.com/48175/2423685200081905758S600x600Q85.jpg)

Wild is rite on about the lug pattern... the center bore needs to be at least 4.25 to clear the lock-out. My backspace is 4" but I run 1.5" wheel spacers. I think they would be fine without them. You might even be able to run 3.75. Somebody else will have to tell ya that.

Ford - Dodge -Jeep CJ - Suzuki - Kia all will fit. Just keep an eye on the center bore.

I scored my Hurricanes for $80.00. a lil beadblast work and waaa-laa instant vintage Rocket wheels.

Good Luck on your hunt.....!

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: dblcola on September 05, 2011, 07:08:38 AM

Hey I'm new and confused. My current rims measure 3 1/4" between bolt holes. What do you mean 5-5.5? Thanks

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: fordem on September 05, 2011, 08:14:45 AM

5 holes on a 5.5" diameter circle.

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: dblcola on September 05, 2011, 08:29:28 AM

I am really new and confused. The rim I took off measures 3 1/4" between lugs and the hole in the center measured 4 1/4" in diameter. What kind of aluminum rim should I look for ? Thanks

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: wildgoody on September 05, 2011, 09:26:12 AM

Older 5 lug Ford or Dodge trucks have the pattern you want, also some
60s era Jeeps, but if you want a nice set, order them from a good online
store and you can make sure you get the right pattern and backspaceing.

The problem I always have with wrecking yard rims, is there is always 1
missing from the set  >:( , and then you have to hunt around to find the
missing one, or find another truck with the same rims. Me, I went to 4 wheel parts
and got a new set of D hole Rockcrawlers, for about $60 each it's worth the headache
unless you have a serious cash issue then you are going to have to do your homework
to get used wheels that are going to work for you

Wild

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: dblcola on September 05, 2011, 10:15:03 AM

O.K. I think I got it. Thanks
By the way I bought the Suzuki for the gas mileage and to drive down to the beach at Panama City, Fl. not to rock climb. Don't think anybody around here does that. I think its a great fun vehicle that is very econimical and the members here have some great looking rides..

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: fordem on September 05, 2011, 04:03:59 PM

Quote from: dblcola on September 05, 2011, 08:29:28 AM

I am really new and confused. The rim I took off measures 3 1/4" between lugs and the hole in the center measured 4 1/4" in diameter. What kind of aluminum rim should I look for ? Thanks

Look at the five holes - are they in a circle?  What is the diameter of that circle?  That is known as the PCD or pitch circle diameter and in this case it's 5.5" - so 5 holes on a 5.5" PCD and that gives you the 5 x 5.5 specification.

Title: Re: Aluminum rims for a 1987 Samurai
Post by: dblcola on September 05, 2011, 07:34:42 PM

Thanks Fordem,
I've never heard of that type of measurment before. I know what to look for now.
Thanks to everybody.