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Jeep Wheels

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Jeeps are known for their off-road abilities. In fact for most Jeep owners it’s the reason they bought the vehicle. Jeep owners are passionate about their vehicles and the rich history behind them.  Their superior off –road capabilities come from the sturdy construction, their high ground clearance, solid axles, and four wheel drive.

The Jeep was first seen as military vehicles during World War I. Jeeps are the oldest off road vehicles, followed by Land Rovers. The military needed a vehicle that can navigate rough terrain so that vehicle operations were not limited to obvious roads. In 1941 the Jeep’s off road capabilities were shown off to the country by driving it up the U.S. capitol’s steps. During the Korean War soldiers joked that the name Jeep was an acronym for “Just Enough Essential Parts”  due to its basic minimalistic design.

When it comes to Jeep wheels the function is the most important factor. The vehicle is designed to take a beating, so fancy chrome wheels are usually a bad idea. Wheels can be made from the basic aluminum, stainless steel, an alloy, or a chrome plated alloy. Die hard off roaders will recommend a stainless steel wheel because if it is dented or damaged in a ride the dents can be banged out with a soft mallet. Alloy wheels are more likely to just chip or break. A broken wheel will not only need to be replaced but chances are the tire will also be damaged.

If the driver does opt for the eye catching chrome plated alloy rims then he will need to be diligent about care. The wheels will need to be cleaned often; otherwise the need for refinishing will be inevitable. Most Jeep owners will prefer a powder coated stainless steel wheel. Those who own a Jeep for looks and not function will easily be spotted with their shiny chrome wheels with low profile tires (Low profile tires will be easily torn or popped on rough terrain.)

Wheel widths for Jeeps can range from five and half inches to ten inches so that a wide stance can be established. A wide stance gives the vehicle more traction- which is essential for rock crawling. The diameter of the wheels is very important. Unless the vehicle is lifted, increasing the wheel size by more than three percent of the factory size will mean the speedometer and odometer will be inaccurate without recalibrating. Going too big can also affect the transmission, altering the shift points and reducing fuel economy.

If the Jeep is lifted there will be some more room to play with the size of the tires, but be cautious. Too large of wheels can affect the microprocessor within the braking system computer and wheel sensor causing brake failure. If larger wheels are installed, it’s wise to check to see which systems are affected and will need to be recalibrated.

For the wheels to run smoothly without any issues dealing with alignment and the frame it’s critical that they are centered. Some wheels are hub centered and don’t rely on lugs to be centered, making them easy to install. With non hub centered wheels the lug pattern will have to be identified and measured to make sure they are properly installed.

The wheel design or cut is the area that the driver can choose based entirely on preference. There are single spoke designs with the number of spokes ranging from four to ten. There are also split spoke designs. The wheels can be convex or have a deep lip, whatever the driver likes best. Also don’t forget about a wheel for the full-sized spare.

It’s important for Jeep drivers to remember that function over looks is the most important aspect of purchasing wheels. Shiny chrome and giant wheels may end up causing tire issues and can affect the performance of the vehicle. Jeeps are meant to be taken off road and on adventures, adventures that will be sorely cut short if the wheels are not up to par.