I want to put something to rest that keeps coming up on this forum. It is the argument of using spacers or flipping the tie rod in order to allow for more tire clearance. Obviously, people are using both methods and so far, no one has reported having any problems. My question is:

Does using wheel spacers put more strain on the wheel bearings? Is there any problem that might be associated with using wheel spacers (mechanically)?

Does flipping the tie rod, thus changing the geometry, cause any problems, or will it?

I think I can say with confidence that we all value your opinion as a mechanic and I would like to hear your 2 cents......

 

Good question... let's keep it at the top so OPT can have a look at it.

 

:BETTER TO USE SPACERS THAN FLIP TIE ROD ENDS! Flipping changes steering a little and alignment usually necessary,plus from people I've seen do this puts extra wear on tie rod ends'inner and outer. Spacers,IF not too dramatic wont put that much of of a load on bearings. Just from what I've seen!

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: old polaris tech

:BETTER TO USE SPACERS THAN FLIP TIE ROD ENDS! Flipping changes steering a little and alignment usually necessary,plus from people I've seen do this puts extra wear on tie rod ends'inner and outer. Spacers,IF not too dramatic wont put that much of of a load on bearings. Just from what I've seen!</end quote></div>

Thanks for the info OPT! It's what I've felt all along. Some are opposed to spacers. I have seen no documented evidence that suggests spacers are bad. I've had them on my rhino and other atv's, even cars and have never had a problem. This is good insight from a mechanics perspective as there are many on this forum who are going the cheaper route of flipping the tie rod ends to accomodate the larger tire widths. But, what may be cheaper now may cost them much more in the long run.

Once again, OPT is pulling through! LOL!

 

Good info OPT... I'd prefer not to do either. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

Thank you.....i opted for spacers!!

 

I'm hoping by the time my stockers get some wear to justify replacement that we will have a choice of a few tires for the stock rims.

- brian

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: Ruggo

I'm hoping by the time my stockers get some wear to justify replacement that we will have a choice of a few tires for the stock rims.

- brian</end quote></div>

I'm banking on it, and waiting for it. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]