Making later model wheels work on our gen 1's

[maestro]

I've seen it asked a couple of times on here abut how to make the later model wheels fit on the gen 1 hubs. Most of the time people use washers around the wheels studs to make the space needed. This is what I have done and I think it is a bit safer than going the washer route. It is also a cheap and easy solution.

 

I bought wheel spacers that fit the 6 lug truck pattern, 6x5.5 inch. I marked the hole that needed to be drilled so they will fit our 4x140mm bolt pattern. Drill the hole in the spacers and you are done. The wheel spacers I use are 1/4" thick. I use one spacer in the front hub to clear the brakes. I use 2 spacers on the rear drum to clear the bump stops. But then there isn't enough wheel stud to safely thread the lug nuts on to hold the wheels. The Subaru Baja wheels studs are almost the same fit where they seat into the hubs and drums but they are quite a bit longer than the original studs that are on our gen 1's. I used a ball joint press to get the new studs in my hubs and drums. Now the later model mag style wheels fit no problem.

 

Here is a video I posted if you are interested.

 

[bendecker]

Great post. And thanks for making the video. Well done.

 

BTW, if you're like me and will likely only use a ball joint tool like this once, there's one at harbor freight (with all the normal disclaimers about "not for daily professional use") for a reasonable price:

 

http://www.harborfreight.com/ball-joint-service-kit-for-2wd-and-4wd-vehicles-4065.html

Edited March 29, 2013 by bendecker

[bonvo]

i would highly suggest changing that rear set up stacking spacers is almost as bad as stacking washers 

[Legourde_Nux]

i would highly suggest changing that rear set up stacking spacers is almost as bad as stacking washers 

 

Are we missing something Bonvo?

 

 

BTW, I used the wheel studs from my 94 Impreza and they're a bit longer as well.