Slip-On Wheel Spacer Installation Guide

Slip-On Wheel Spacer Installation Guide

Step-by-step instructions for installing BSB USA slip-on wheel spacers. Covers hub cleaning, torque specs, and thread engagement requirements to ensure perfect fitment and safety.

Slip-on spacers fine-tune stance and clearance while retaining your vehicle’s factory wheel studs or lug bolts.
Because they don’t include pressed-in studs, ensuring full thread engagement and correct torque is critical for a safe, secure installation.

Follow the steps below carefully — using hand tools only — for a precise and reliable fit.

Safety Information

  • Use hand tools only — never air or power tools.

  • Confirm proper thread engagement before torquing.

  • Torque all hardware with a calibrated torque wrench.

  • Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s factory torque specification.

  • Never stack spacers on the same hub.

Tools & Materials

  • Torque wrench (capable of at least your vehicle’s required spec)

  • Correct-size socket and breaker bar or ratchet

  • Wire brush or wheel

  • Anti-seize for hub surface (optional)

  • Jack and jack stands or a lift

Tip: Installation should be performed by a qualified technician familiar with wheel spacers and torque procedures.

Step 1 – Clean the Hub

Purpose: Ensure the spacer seats perfectly flush and centered.

  1. Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and loosen the lug nuts slightly by hand.

  2. Raise and support the vehicle securely with jack stands.

  3. Remove the wheel.

  4. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove rust, corrosion, or debris from the hub face and rotor.

    A clean hub surface ensures perfect centering and prevents vibration.

Step 2 – Install the Slip-On Spacer

Purpose: Fit the spacer flush on the hub to maintain hub-centric alignment.

  1. Slide the spacer onto the vehicle’s hub and over the factory studs or lug-bolt holes.

  2. Confirm that the spacer seats completely against the hub with no gaps.

  3. Check that the hub lip aligns snugly inside the spacer’s center bore (if applicable).

If the spacer does not seat fully, re-clean the hub surface before proceeding.

Step 3 – Reinstall the Wheel

Purpose: Mount the wheel securely over the spacer.

  1. Place the wheel back onto the vehicle, ensuring it sits flat against the spacer face.

  2. Install the factory lug nuts or lug bolts by hand.

  3. Verify proper thread engagement — you must achieve at least the minimum number of full turns shown below before torqueing.

Thread Engagement Requirements

Thread Size Minimum Full Turns
12×1.5 mm 6.5 turns
12×1.25 mm 8 turns
14×1.5 mm 7.5 turns
14×2 mm 6 turns
½-20 in 8 turns
9⁄16-18 in 7.5 turns

If you cannot achieve these minimum turns, install extended wheel studs or longer lug bolts before proceeding.

Choosing the Correct Hardware

  • Vehicles with Lug Bolts: Replace stock bolts with extended versions.

  • Vehicles with Studs and Lug Nuts: Replace factory studs with extended aftermarket studs.

Contact info@runbsb.com for hardware recommendations.

Step 4 – Torque the Wheel

Purpose: Secure the wheel evenly for safe operation.

  1. Using a torque wrench, tighten each lug nut or bolt in a star pattern.

  2. Torque to your vehicle manufacturer’s factory specification.

  3. Spin the wheel by hand before lowering the vehicle to confirm there’s no rubbing or interference.

⚠️ Never use an impact wrench. Power tools can over-torque fasteners or damage studs.

Step 5 – Re-Torque After Driving

After driving 25–50 miles, recheck torque on all lug nuts or bolts.
Repeat this step periodically — especially after wheel service or if vibration develops.

Torque Specification Summary

Fastener Type Torque Specification
Lug Nuts / Lug Bolts Follow vehicle manufacturer’s specification

Always use a hand torque wrench. Do not use power tools.

Important Safety & Legal Information

  • BSB USA spacers are intended for off-road and competition use only.

  • Use on public roads may not comply with local regulations.

  • Installation must be performed by a trained professional.

  • Never stack spacers or combine different types on the same hub.

  • Proper torque and thread engagement are the installer’s responsibility.

Installation and use of BSB USA products are performed entirely at the installer’s and vehicle owner’s own risk.
BSB USA assumes no liability for improper installation, misuse, or illegal application of its products.

Need Help?

Questions about fitment, hardware, or installation?

info@runbsb.com

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