Originally Posted by nate_man
Forum GURU's we need your valuable input on aftermarket wheels.
I have searched several of the threads looking for a clear understanding of what it takes to replace stock wheels and all of it has left me a bit confused, so I have a series of questions that I would like to get the "Real Deal" on:
- What is the bolt pattern for the xfires?
- What is the offset required to allow a clean fit (assuming the 18 & 19 stagger) or 19's all around?
- What is the deal with the center cap fitment issue (if there is one)?
- Do MB SLK wheels have the same fit? If not why?
- What things need to be kept in mind when purchasing aftermarket wheels (relating to fitment)?
I have looked at wheels till I am bue in the face and although there are a ton of options out there, the list gets pretty small when it comes to options that will fit our cars. I may have to do 19's all around and if it comes to that because of a style that I like so be it but I want to be informed as I do this search. Wheels are like shoes, and you can have a great suit but if you have the wrong shoes that suit really doesnt shine like it should and the right wheels on this car truly make a difference!
Thanks to the gurus out there!
I'll answer what I can:
- 5 X 112
- OEM wheels have 35 mm (+) offset front and 22 mm (+) rear. This works fine with the 9" wide wheels we have and will work with wider wheels yet, but if you go much wider/taller on tires you have to be careful.
- Don't know.
- So far as I know, other MB/AMG wheels are form-fitted to accomodate larger brakes and wider stance. An engineers decision.
- If the wheels you are interested in don't match OEM offsets, you may need spacers. Most aftermarket wheels require "Taper Seat" lugs, bolts or nuts while our OEM's are "Ball Seat". The real close fit is on the front of our cars. The upper balljoint nut sits ~ 3/8" away from the tire as is. be careful to clear that when going wider/taller with front tires.
There is a sticky called "Spacers". Look through that?