Measuring golf cart wheels is essential to ensure the right fit for your vehicle. Understanding the measurement process is important if you're upgrading your golf cart's wheels for a sleeker look or better performance. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to measure your golf cart wheels properly.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
Before starting, make sure you have a tape measure or a ruler. These are the basic tools to get accurate measurements for your golf cart wheels.
Step 2: Measure the Wheel Width of Your Golf Cart
Place your tape measure from one inner wall to the opposite inner wall to measure the width of the golf cart wheel. Make sure you measure across the central part of the wheel. This ensures you are capturing the exact width, which is essential for fitting the correct tire size. For example, if your measurement is seven inches, then your wheel width is seven inches.
Step 3: Measure the Wheel Height
Next, determine the height of the golf cart wheel by measuring from where the tire mounts at the top to where it mounts at the bottom. Measure the entire height of the wheel and then subtract one inch to account for the tire bead seat on both sides. For instance, if the total height is 13 inches, subtracting one inch gives you a 12-inch wheel height. This subtraction is crucial as it accounts for the tire's mounting surface, ensuring accurate fitting.
Step 4: Determine the Wheel Offset
Wheel offset is a critical measurement that affects how your golf cart handles and fits its wheels. The offset is the distance from the wheel's mounting surface to the centerline of the wheel. It can be positive, negative, or zero, influencing the wheel's positioning to the vehicle's body and suspension. Here's how to measure it accurately:
Measure Backspacing
Backspacing refers to the measurement from the wheel's mounting surface to the outer edge of its back (the side facing inward towards the golf cart's suspension). Here's how to measure it:
- Place the wheel on a flat surface with the back facing up.
- Place a straight edge along the rear edge of the wheel, like a ruler or a flat piece of wood.
- Measure the distance from the mounting surface (the hub area) to the straight edge using a tape measure. This measurement is your backspacing.
For example, if the distance from the mounting surface to the outer edge is 4 inches, then your backspacing is 4 inches.
Measure Front Spacing
Front spacing is the distance from the wheel's mounting surface to the outer edge of the wheel's front (the side facing outward when mounted on the golf cart). To measure it:
- Place the wheel on a flat surface with the front facing up.
- Lay a straight edge across the wheel's front edge.
- Using a tape measure, measure the distance from the mounting surface to the straight edge. This measurement is your front spacing.
For example, if the distance from the mounting surface to the outer edge is 3 inches, then your front spacing is 3 inches.
Calculate Offset
Calculate the offset by subtracting the front spacing from the backspacing, determining whether the offset is positive, negative, or zero.
- Positive Offset: When the mounting surface is closer to the wheel's outer edge (front side). This pushes the wheel inward towards the golf cart.
- Negative Offset: When the mounting surface is nearer to the wheel's inner edge (back side). This pushes the wheel outward away from the golf cart.
- Zero Offset: When the mounting surface is exactly in the wheel's centerline.
Example Calculation:
Backspacing: 4 inches
Front Spacing: 3 inches
Offset = Backspacing - Front Spacing
Offset = 4 inches - 3 inches = 1 inch (Positive Offset)
In this example, a positive offset of 1-inch positions the wheel's mounting surface 1 inch towards the outer edge.
Tips on Choosing the Right Offset
A negative offset is often advisable for custom wheels larger than your stock size. A negative offset pushes the wheel out from the cart, preventing rubbing. On the other hand, a positive offset might cause the wheels to touch the cart's body, leading to potential damage.
Common Golf Cart Wheel Sizes
Golf cart wheels are available in various sizes, typically 8 to 15 inches in diameter. These sizes refer to the wheels alone, excluding the overall combo with tires.
8" Golf Cart Wheels
Eight-inch wheels are standard for OEM golf carts like Club Car, EZGO, and Yamaha. These wheels, typically constructed from steel, often pair with tires suitable for non-lifted carts. For instance, OEM combos with 8" wheels have an overall diameter of 18 inches, fitting any cart without requiring a lift kit.
10" Golf Cart Wheels
Slightly larger, 10" wheels are predominantly made of aluminum and come in various styles and colors. They're versatile and suitable for both non-lifted and lifted carts. With more space for tire/air, 10" wheels offer a smoother ride. Popular combos include the 205/50-10 street/turf combo, measuring 18" in overall height.
12" Golf Cart Wheels
Twelve-inch wheels strike a balance, catering to both non-lifted and lifted carts. They offer a wide range of combo sizes, allowing for flexibility in styling. Like 10" wheels, they're made of aluminum and come in diverse styles and colors.
14" Golf Cart Wheels
Fourteen-inch wheels are among the largest available, providing a prominent look. However, they generally require a lift kit for installation, except for specific models like EZGO golf carts. Made of aluminum, they offer a unique aesthetic appeal.
15" Golf Cart Wheels
The newest addition is fifteen-inch wheels, which offer a standout appearance. However, due to their large size, they require a lift kit for installation. While options may be limited compared to other sizes, they provide a distinct look that's sure to turn heads.
As you explore various wheel sizes and styles, consider your golf cart's make and model and the need for a lift kit. Choose the size and design that best compliment your cart's aesthetic and performance requirements.
Ready to Upgrade Your Golf Cart Wheels?
Now that you know how to measure your golf cart wheels, it's time to find the perfect set for your vehicle. Golf Cart Geeks offers a wide selection of wheels and tires.
