The Ram 1500 is one of the most popular full-size pickup trucks on the market, known for its power, reliability, and versatility. Whether you are looking to upgrade your wheels, replace them, or just understand the Ram 1500 bolt pattern, knowing the right specifications is essential. This article will provide a complete guide on the bolt pattern, specifications, compatibility, and tips for choosing the right wheels for your ram 1500 bolt pattern
What Is a Bolt Pattern?
A bolt pattern, also known as a lug pattern, refers to the arrangement of the bolt holes on a vehicle’s wheel hub. It is usually expressed as two numbers, such as 6×139.7. The first number (6) represents the number of lug holes, while the second number (139.7) indicates the diameter in millimeters of the imaginary circle that passes through the center of the lug holes.
Ram 1500 Bolt Pattern by Model Year
The Ram 1500 bolt pattern has changed over the years. Here is a breakdown of the bolt patterns based on different model years:
- 1994-2018 Ram 1500: 5×139.7 mm (5×5.5 inches)
- 2019-Present Ram 1500: 6×139.7 mm (6×5.5 inches)
This means that earlier Ram 1500 models have a 5-lug bolt pattern, while newer models (2019 and later) have a 6-lug bolt pattern. If you are looking to buy new wheels, it is important to confirm which bolt pattern matches your specific model year.
Lug Nut Sizes and Torque Specifications
Aside from the Ram 1500 bolt pattern, it is also important to know the correct lug nut size and torque specifications to ensure proper wheel installation.
- Thread Size: 14mm x 1.5
- Hex Size: 22mm
- Torque Specification: 130-140 ft-lbs
Using the correct torque specification is crucial. Over-tightening can strip the threads, while under-tightening can lead to wheel looseness, which is a safety hazard.
How to Measure the Ram 1500 Bolt Pattern
If you are unsure about the Ram 1500 bolt pattern, you can measure it yourself using these steps:
- Count the Lug Holes – If your Ram 1500 has five lug holes, it follows a 5-lug pattern. If it has six, it follows a 6-lug pattern.
- Measure the Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD) – Measure from the center of one lug hole to the farthest opposite lug hole.
- Confirm the Measurement – If your measurement is 139.7mm, your bolt pattern is either 5×139.7 mm or 6×139.7 mm, depending on the number of lug holes.
Why the Ram 1500 Bolt Pattern Matters
Understanding the Ram 1500 bolt pattern is important for several reasons:
- Proper Fitment: Ensuring the correct bolt pattern prevents installation issues.
- Safety: Using the wrong wheels can lead to misalignment, vibration, and unsafe driving conditions.
- Customization: If you want aftermarket wheels, knowing your bolt pattern helps you find the right fit.
Compatible Wheels for Ram 1500
If you want to upgrade your wheels, here are some vehicles that share the same Ram 1500 pattern (6×139.7 mm for 2019+ models):
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- GMC Sierra 1500
- Toyota Tundra
- Nissan Titan
For older models (1994-2018) with the 5×139.7 mm pattern, compatible vehicles include:
- Dodge Durango
- Jeep Grand Cherokee (older models)
- Dodge Dakota
When selecting aftermarket wheels, always check the wheel offset, center bore, and lug nut compatibility to ensure a proper fit.
How to Change Wheels on a Ram 1500
If you’re replacing or upgrading your wheels, follow these steps:
- Park on a Level Surface – Ensure the truck is in park with the parking brake engaged.
- Loosen the Lug Nuts – Use a lug wrench to slightly loosen the nuts before lifting the vehicle.
- Jack Up the Truck – Place a jack under the recommended lifting point and raise the vehicle.
- Remove the Old Wheel – Fully unscrew the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
- Install the New Wheel – Align the wheel with the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower the Truck and Tighten the Nuts – Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to 130-140 ft-lbs.
- Recheck After Driving – After 50 miles, check the lug nuts to ensure they remain secure.
Common Issues with Ram 1500 Wheels
Some common problems related to the Ram 1500 pattern include:
- Vibrations While Driving – Often caused by unbalanced wheels or improperly torqued lug nuts.
- Incorrect Wheel Fitment – Using the wrong bolt pattern can lead to poor alignment and handling issues.
- Stripped Lug Nuts – Over-tightening can damage the threads, making removal difficult.
- Rust and Corrosion – Rust buildup on the wheel hub can make it difficult to remove or install wheels.
Regular maintenance and using the correct torque can help prevent these issues.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Ram 1500 bolt pattern is essential for anyone looking to replace or upgrade their wheels. Ram 1500 models from 1994-2018 use a 5×139.7 mm bolt pattern, while models from 2019 and newer use a 6×139.7 mm bolt pattern. Always verify your truck’s bolt pattern before purchasing new wheels. Following proper installation steps ensures safety, performance, and longevity for your Ram 1500’s wheels.
