Choosing RAM 1500 wheel spacers requires more than checking the model name and spacer thickness. RAM 1500 trucks use different wheel bolt patterns across the DS, Classic and DT platforms, and the 2019 model year is especially easy to misidentify.
Before ordering wheel spacers, confirm the truck's bolt pattern, hub bore, wheel-stud thread, spacer thickness and wheel-pocket clearance. A spacer that is close—but not exactly correct—can prevent the wheel from sitting flush and may lead to vibration or loose hardware.
Quick answer: Many 2012–2018 RAM 1500 trucks and 2019–2024 RAM 1500 Classic trucks use a 5x139.7 mm pattern. The redesigned 2019–2024 RAM 1500 DT uses a 6x139.7 mm pattern. Model year alone is not enough to confirm fitment, particularly for 2019 and later trucks.
If you are unsure which generation you own, start with our RAM 1500 DS vs. DT identification guide.
RAM 1500 Wheel Spacer Fitment at a Glance
| RAM 1500 version | Common model years | Listed bolt pattern | Listed hub bore | Listed thread |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAM 1500 DS | 2012–2018 applications | 5x139.7 mm / 5x5.5 in. | 77.8 mm | M14x1.5 |
| RAM 1500 Classic | 2019–2024 listed applications | 5x139.7 mm / 5x5.5 in. | 77.8 mm | M14x1.5 |
| RAM 1500 DT | 2019–2024 listed applications | 6x139.7 mm / 6x5.5 in. | 77.8 mm | M14x1.5 |
Important: The table summarizes the specifications currently listed for relevant BDFHYK spacer applications. Production configuration, aftermarket hubs and previous modifications can affect actual fitment. Verify the measurements on the vehicle before ordering.
Is a 2019 RAM 1500 5-Lug or 6-Lug?
A 2019 RAM 1500 can be either 5-lug or 6-lug because two platforms were sold during the same model year:
- 2019 RAM 1500 Classic: carries over the DS body and commonly uses a 5-lug wheel pattern.
- 2019 RAM 1500 new body: uses the DT platform and commonly has a 6-lug wheel pattern.
Do not order a spacer based only on the words “2019 RAM 1500.” Count the wheel studs and determine whether the truck is a Classic or new-body DT first. A 5-lug spacer cannot be installed on a 6-lug hub, even when the hub-bore and thread specifications appear similar.
Wheel Spacer vs. Wheel Adapter
The two terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but they describe different parts.
| Part | Primary function | Bolt pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel spacer | Moves the wheel outward from the hub | Normally keeps the same bolt pattern |
| Wheel adapter | Allows a wheel with a different bolt pattern to be installed | Changes from one bolt pattern to another |
If the truck and wheel already share the same bolt pattern, a standard bolt-on spacer is generally the relevant part. If the patterns differ, a purpose-designed adapter is required. A spacer should never be forced onto an incompatible pattern.
What Does Hubcentric Mean?
A hubcentric spacer has a machined center pilot intended to register closely against the vehicle hub. This helps center the spacer before the hardware is tightened.
However, the word “hubcentric” does not automatically guarantee complete fitment. You must still verify:
- Vehicle-side bolt pattern
- Vehicle hub diameter
- Wheel-stud thread pitch
- Wheel-side center bore
- Wheel lug-seat design
- Spacer thickness
- Original stud clearance
A hubcentric spacer cannot compensate for a wrong bolt pattern, incorrect thread pitch or a wheel that contacts the original studs.
How Thick Should RAM 1500 Wheel Spacers Be?
Common bolt-on spacer sizes include 1 inch, 1.5 inches and 2 inches. The correct thickness depends on the wheel offset, tire size, suspension clearance, fender position and available stud clearance.
| Spacer thickness | Metric equivalent | Approximate total track-width increase | Typical consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 inch per side | 25.4 mm | 2 inches / 50.8 mm | Moderate outward movement; carefully check original stud clearance |
| 1.5 inches per side | 38.1 mm | 3 inches / 76.2 mm | More visible stance change and additional wheel-to-suspension clearance |
| 2 inches per side | 50.8 mm | 4 inches / 101.6 mm | Greater risk of fender protrusion and tire rubbing |
The total track-width change is approximately twice the spacer thickness because a spacer is installed on both sides of an axle. For example, 1.5-inch spacers move each wheel outward by about 1.5 inches, increasing the axle's overall track width by approximately 3 inches.
How Wheel Spacers Change Effective Offset
A spacer makes the wheel's effective offset more negative by approximately the thickness of the spacer.
Example: A wheel with a +25 mm offset installed over a 38.1 mm spacer has an effective position of approximately:
+25 mm − 38.1 mm = −13.1 mm
This calculation predicts how far the wheel moves outward, but it does not confirm tire clearance. Tire width, wheel width, steering angle and suspension travel must also be considered.
1.5-Inch vs. 2-Inch Wheel Spacers
A thicker spacer is not automatically better. Choose the smallest thickness that achieves the required suspension clearance and desired wheel position.
Consider 1.5-inch spacers when:
- You want a moderate stance change.
- The wheel needs additional clearance from suspension components.
- A 2-inch spacer would place the tire too far outside the fender.
- The wheel has enough rear-pocket clearance for any original stud projection.
Consider 2-inch spacers when:
- A larger outward position is specifically required.
- The tire and wheel assembly will clear the fender through the full steering and suspension range.
- The wider stance complies with applicable local requirements.
- The added leverage and inspection requirements are acceptable for the vehicle's use.
Always measure the truck instead of choosing by appearance alone. Two RAM 1500 trucks from the same year can have different wheels, tires, ride heights and aftermarket suspension components.
RAM 1500 Wheel Spacers Before and After
The most visible difference before and after installing wheel spacers is the tire's position relative to the fender. Properly sized spacers can bring deeply inset wheels closer to the fender line or create clearance between the wheel and suspension components.
| Area | Before spacers | After spacers |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel position | Closer to the suspension and inside the fender | Moved outward by approximately the spacer thickness |
| Track width | Original vehicle width | Increases by about twice the spacer thickness per axle |
| Inner clearance | May be limited with wider tires or different wheels | Generally increases by the spacer thickness |
| Outer clearance | More room inside the fender | Less room between the tire and outer fender |
| Component loading | Original wheel-position leverage | Outward movement increases leverage on related components |
Wheel spacers do not increase payload or towing capacity. They should not be used as a substitute for the correct wheel, tire, suspension or axle specification.
How to Measure Before Ordering Wheel Spacers
1. Identify the RAM 1500 platform
Determine whether the truck is a DS, Classic or DT. On a 2019 truck, verify the body generation and count the wheel studs.
2. Confirm the bolt pattern
Confirm both the number of wheel studs and the bolt-circle diameter. Do not assume all RAM 1500 trucks use the same pattern.
3. Measure the hub pilot
The spacer's vehicle-side center bore must fit over the hub correctly. Dirt, rust or an undersized center bore can prevent the spacer from seating flat.
4. Confirm the thread specification
Verify the original stud and supplied spacer-stud thread. The listed BDFHYK RAM 1500 spacer applications use M14x1.5 hardware, but the vehicle should still be physically checked.
5. Measure inner and outer tire clearance
With the truck safely supported, check the distance between the tire or wheel and the closest suspension, brake and body components. Also estimate where the tire will sit relative to the outer fender after adding the spacer thickness.
6. Check wheel-pocket depth
Some wheels have recessed pockets between their lug holes that can accommodate original studs projecting beyond the spacer face. Other wheels have a flat mounting surface.
If an original stud extends past the spacer face, the wheel must have sufficient pocket depth and correct pocket location. Do not cut or grind wheel studs unless the vehicle or component manufacturer specifically approves the procedure and the work is performed by a qualified technician.
RAM 1500 Wheel Spacer Selection Checklist
Confirm every item below before purchasing:
- RAM 1500 platform: DS, Classic or DT
- Actual number of wheel studs
- Vehicle-side bolt pattern
- Spacer wheel-side bolt pattern
- Vehicle hub diameter
- Wheel center-bore diameter
- Stud and lug-nut thread pitch
- Wheel lug-seat type
- Required spacer thickness
- Original stud projection
- Wheel rear-pocket depth
- Brake-caliper and suspension clearance
- Fender clearance at full steering lock
- Clearance through suspension compression
- Spacer load specification and intended application
Knowing whether the truck is 2WD or 4WD is useful, but it does not replace these dimensional checks.
Current BDFHYK RAM 1500 Wheel Spacer Options
| Application listed | Bolt pattern | Hub bore | Thread | Available listed thickness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012–2018 RAM 1500 and 2019–2024 RAM 1500 Classic | 5x139.7 mm | 77.8 mm | M14x1.5 | 1.5 or 2 inches |
| 2019–2024 RAM 1500 new-body applications | 6x139.7 mm | 77.8 mm | M14x1.5 | 1, 1.5 or 2 inches |
Review the current product specifications before ordering:
- BDFHYK 5x139.7 RAM 1500 wheel spacers
- BDFHYK 6x139.7 RAM 1500 wheel spacers
- Browse all BDFHYK wheel spacers
Fitment note: Product-page year ranges are a starting point, not a substitute for checking the truck and wheel. Verify the actual bolt pattern, hub, thread and wheel-pocket clearance before installation.
How to Install Bolt-On Wheel Spacers
Wheel-spacer installation directly affects wheel retention. If you do not have the correct lifting equipment, calibrated torque wrench or experience inspecting wheel hardware, have the work completed by a qualified repair facility.
Tools and supplies
- Proper jack and rated jack stands or a vehicle lift
- Correct six-point sockets
- Calibrated torque wrench
- Hand tools for wheel removal
- Non-damaging brush for cleaning mounting surfaces
- Manufacturer's spacer instructions and torque specifications
Installation procedure
- Park on a stable, level surface and secure the vehicle.
- Raise and support the truck using the procedures in its owner's manual.
- Remove the wheel and inspect the hub, studs, lug nuts and wheel mounting surface.
- Remove rust, dirt and debris from the hub and mating surfaces.
- Test-fit the spacer and confirm that it sits completely flush against the hub.
- Hand-start all spacer nuts to prevent cross-threading.
- Tighten the spacer nuts gradually in a star pattern.
- Use a calibrated torque wrench and the spacer manufacturer's documented torque specification.
- Check whether any original studs project beyond the spacer face.
- Test-fit the wheel and verify that its mounting pad sits flush against the spacer.
- Install and tighten the wheel hardware in a star pattern using the applicable specifications.
- Rotate the wheel by hand and check brake, suspension and body clearance.
- Lower the truck and complete the final torque procedure as instructed.
- Perform a short, low-speed test and inspect the installation again.
The official RAM 1500 manual instructs owners to clean the wheel mounting surface, avoid oiling the wheel studs, tighten in a star pattern and use a calibrated torque wrench with a six-sided deep socket. For the referenced 2022 RAM 1500 DT, the manual lists an M14x1.50 wheel-nut thread and a wheel-nut torque of 130 ft-lb or 176 N·m.
Do not automatically apply the factory wheel-nut torque to the spacer-to-hub hardware. Use the spacer manufacturer's specification for the spacer nuts and follow the applicable wheel or vehicle specification for the wheel-side hardware.
Post-Installation Clearance Checks
Before normal driving, verify all of the following:
- The spacer sits flat against the hub.
- The wheel sits flat against the spacer.
- No stud contacts the back of the wheel.
- The wheel rotates without touching the brake components.
- The tire clears the upper control arm and other suspension parts.
- The tire clears the inner liner and fender at full left and right steering lock.
- Brake hoses and ABS wiring are not stretched or contacted.
- No clicking, clunking or new vibration is present.
If the truck also has a leveling kit or larger tires, inspect clearance through the suspension's full range. Read the RAM 1500 leveling kit guide and the RAM 1500 upper control arm guide before finalizing the setup.
Why a RAM 1500 Vibrates After Installing Wheel Spacers
Vibration beginning immediately after spacer installation should be investigated before continued highway driving.
| Possible cause | What to inspect |
|---|---|
| Dirt or rust between mating surfaces | Remove the wheel and spacer; inspect and clean the hub, spacer and wheel pad |
| Spacer not seated flush | Check the hub pilot, brake clips, corrosion and stud interference |
| Wrong center-bore size | Verify the vehicle hub, spacer bore and wheel center bore |
| Uneven tightening | Inspect hardware and repeat the documented star-pattern torque procedure |
| Original studs contacting the wheel | Inspect the wheel's rear pockets and mounting-pad contact |
| Incorrect lug-seat design | Compare the nuts with the wheel and spacer seat requirements |
| Existing wheel or tire problem | Check tire balance, wheel runout, tire damage and previous vibration history |
A clicking or clunking sound can indicate loose or contacting hardware. Stop driving and inspect the installation immediately.
Do Wheel Spacers Damage Wheel Bearings?
Moving the wheel outward changes the leverage acting on the hub bearing and related suspension components. The amount of additional loading depends on spacer thickness, wheel offset, tire size, vehicle load, road conditions and driving use.
This does not mean every properly installed spacer immediately damages a bearing. It does mean that excessively thick spacers, oversized tires, incorrect installation or worn existing components can increase risk and inspection requirements.
Before installation, inspect for:
- Existing wheel-bearing play or noise
- Damaged wheel studs or lug nuts
- Worn ball joints and tie-rod ends
- Cracked, bent or damaged wheels
- Abnormal tire wear
A wheel spacer should not be used to mask worn suspension or wheel-bearing components.
Do Wheel Spacers Require an Alignment?
A wheel spacer alone moves the wheel outward but does not directly change the suspension's static camber, caster or toe settings. An alignment is not automatically required solely because a correctly sized spacer was installed.
An alignment inspection is recommended when:
- A leveling or lift kit was installed.
- Suspension components were replaced or loosened.
- The truck pulls or the steering wheel is off-center.
- The tires show uneven wear.
- A substantially different tire or wheel package was fitted.
Wheel Spacer Maintenance and Re-Torque
Wheel spacers add a second bolted interface: hub to spacer and spacer to wheel. Both interfaces must remain properly seated and tightened.
- Follow the spacer manufacturer's initial re-torque interval.
- Follow the owner's manual requirements for the wheel hardware.
- Inspect again after removing and reinstalling a wheel.
- Inspect before towing, long-distance travel or severe off-road use.
- Check for looseness, corrosion, damaged threads and cracked components.
The referenced RAM owner manual instructs drivers to check wheel-nut torque after 25 miles or 40 km. Spacer instructions may specify a separate interval for the spacer-to-hub hardware, so follow both applicable requirements.
Wheel Spacer Safety Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not stack multiple spacers.
- Do not install a 5-lug spacer on a 6-lug truck.
- Do not force an incorrect center bore over the hub.
- Do not use an impact wrench as the final torque method.
- Do not lubricate wheel studs unless the applicable manufacturer specifically instructs it.
- Do not install a wheel that contacts protruding original studs.
- Do not reuse damaged, cross-threaded or deformed hardware.
- Do not assume spacer installation increases towing or payload capacity.
- Do not continue driving when new vibration, clicking or clunking appears.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size wheel spacers fit a RAM 1500?
A: The correct size depends on the truck's bolt pattern, hub bore, thread pitch, wheel construction and required thickness. Listed applications include 5x139.7 mm spacers for many DS and Classic trucks and 6x139.7 mm spacers for new-body DT trucks. Physically verify the vehicle before ordering.
Q: Is a 2019 RAM 1500 5-lug or 6-lug?
A: It may be either. A 2019 RAM 1500 Classic commonly uses a 5-lug pattern, while the redesigned 2019 RAM 1500 DT commonly uses a 6-lug pattern. Count the studs and identify the platform.
Q: Do RAM 1500 Classic and DT trucks use the same wheel spacers?
A: No. Current listed Classic applications use a 5x139.7 mm pattern, while listed DT applications use a 6x139.7 mm pattern. They are not interchangeable.
Q: Should I choose 1.5-inch or 2-inch wheel spacers?
A: Choose the smallest thickness that provides the required inner clearance and desired wheel position without causing fender protrusion or rubbing. Measure wheel-pocket depth, suspension clearance and outer-fender clearance first.
Q: Do wheel spacers change wheel offset?
A: They change the effective wheel position. Subtract the spacer thickness in millimeters from the wheel's original offset to estimate the new effective offset.
Q: Why does my RAM 1500 vibrate after installing wheel spacers?
A: Common causes include dirty mounting surfaces, a spacer that is not seated flush, incorrect hub sizing, uneven torque, original stud interference, incorrect lug hardware or an existing wheel-and-tire problem.
Q: Do wheel spacers damage wheel bearings?
A: Moving the wheel outward increases leverage on the hub and suspension. The effect depends on thickness, wheel offset, tire size, load and use. Correct fitment, installation and regular inspection are essential.
Q: Do I need an alignment after installing wheel spacers?
A: A spacer alone does not directly change alignment angles. An alignment is recommended if the suspension or ride height changed, the truck pulls, the steering wheel is off-center or the tires wear unevenly.
Q: Can I tow with wheel spacers installed?
A: Wheel spacers do not increase towing capacity. Use only correctly specified components, follow their load and installation requirements, and inspect both bolted interfaces before towing. Consult a qualified technician when the vehicle regularly carries or tows heavy loads.
Q: Can I stack two wheel spacers?
A: No. Stacking spacers creates additional interfaces and can prevent proper centering and hardware retention. Use one correctly designed spacer of the required thickness.
Q: How often should RAM 1500 wheel spacers be re-torqued?
A: Follow the spacer manufacturer's re-torque schedule for the spacer-to-hub hardware and the RAM manual for wheel hardware. The referenced RAM manual calls for checking wheel-nut torque after 25 miles or 40 km.
Q: Do the BDFHYK 5-lug spacers fit a 2019 RAM 1500 Classic?
A: The current product listing includes 2019–2024 RAM 1500 Classic applications. Confirm that the truck has a 5x139.7 mm pattern, 77.8 mm hub and M14x1.5 threads, and check wheel-pocket clearance before purchase.
Q: Do the current BDFHYK 6-lug spacers fit a 2025 RAM 1500?
A: The referenced product title currently lists fitment through the 2024 model year. Do not assume 2025 fitment without confirming the current product listing and matching the truck's actual dimensions.
Final Fitment Recommendation
For a reliable RAM 1500 wheel-spacer installation, begin with the truck's platform—not only its model year. Confirm whether it is a DS, Classic or DT, and then verify the bolt pattern, hub diameter, thread pitch, spacer thickness and wheel-pocket clearance.
After installation, check that both the spacer and wheel sit completely flush, use documented torque specifications, inspect clearance at full steering lock and recheck the hardware after the required mileage. If any measurement or installation condition is uncertain, have the truck inspected by a qualified automotive technician before driving.
Browse compatible replacement parts in the BDFHYK RAM 1500 collection.
