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What is the bolt pattern on a 1972 Chevy Impala?

The bolt pattern is 5-lug on a 4.75-inch circle (5x4.75 inches, 120.65 mm).


For the 1972 Chevy Impala, you’ll find a five-bolt mounting pattern around a 4.75-inch bolt circle. This configuration is standard for GM’s full-size and mid-size passenger cars of the era, including the B-body Impala, and it guides wheel selection, compatibility with adapters, and overall fitment when restoring or upgrading wheels.


Details of the 5x4.75 pattern


Below is a concise breakdown of the key measurements and practical notes you should know when checking wheels or adapters for a 1972 Impala.



  • Bolts per wheel: 5

  • Bolt circle (center-to-center distance of lug holes): 4.75 inches (120.65 mm)

  • Lug nut size and seat: commonly 1/2-20 UNC with a conical seat for GM passenger cars of this era; confirm with your specific wheel hardware

  • Center bore: typically around 2.0625 inches (52.4 mm); aftermarket wheels may require hub-centric rings for precise fitment


Note: Always verify wheel specifications and brake clearance, as some aftermarket options can affect fit even when the bolt pattern matches.


Why this matters for restoration and wheel choices


Matching the 5x4.75 pattern is essential for safe mounting, proper alignment, and reliable braking performance. If you’re upgrading to larger wheels or install wheels from aftermarket vendors, check offset, brake clearance, and hub bore compatibility with the Impala’s factory setup.


Summary


The 1972 Chevy Impala uses a 5-on-4.75-inch bolt pattern (5x4.75"). This is the standard GM wheel pattern for that era’s passenger cars, so use this as the baseline when selecting wheels, adapters, or restoration parts. Always confirm lug nut specifications, center bore, and clearance for your specific vehicle configuration.

What is the Chevy Impala bolt pattern?


The Chevy Impala's bolt pattern varies by generation, with most modern versions using 5x120mm (2014-2020) or 5x115mm (2000-2013). Older models had different patterns, such as 5x127mm for the 1994-1996 models and 5x4.75 inches for many classic Impalas from the late 1950s to 1970s. 
Bolt pattern by generation

Generation Production Years Bolt Pattern
VII 1994-1996 5x127mm
VIII 2000-2005 5x115mm
IX 2006-2013 5x115mm
X 2014-2020 5x120mm
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Important considerations
  • Always verify: the bolt pattern for your specific model year before purchasing new wheels. 
  • While the bolt pattern is crucial, you should also check other specifications like offset and center bore to ensure a proper fit, notes Wheelership.com and Detroit Wheel and Tire. 
  • For specific details on older models, consult resources like Wheel-Size.com. 



What lug pattern is the same as 5X4 75?


A 5x4.75 inch bolt pattern is the same as 5x120.65 mm. It is a very common bolt pattern for many classic American muscle cars and modern Corvettes. While some newer GM vehicles use a 5x120 mm bolt pattern, the slight difference in millimeter measurement means a 5x120 wheel might not be a perfect fit for a 5x4.75 application and vice-versa.
 

  • Metric equivalent: 5x4.75 inches is equal to approximately 5x120.65 mm. 
  • Common usage: This pattern was widely used by GM for a long period, found on models from the 1940s through the modern era. 
  • Confusion with 5x120mm: Be aware that many modern GM vehicles, and certain aftermarket wheels, use a 5x120mm pattern. While very close, this difference of 0.65mm can be significant and may cause issues. 
  • Wheel fitment: Always verify the exact bolt pattern of your vehicle before purchasing new wheels. You should also confirm the center bore size and offset, as these are also critical for proper fitment. 



What lug pattern is a 1972 Chevy C10?


The bolt pattern for a 1972 Chevy C10 is 5x5 (or 5x127), which applies to the two-wheel-drive (2WD) models. Some 4x4 or earlier models used a different bolt pattern, but the standard 1972 C10 2WD has five lugs on a 5-inch circle.
 
This video explains the difference between 5-lug and 6-lug bolt patterns on GM trucks: 1mC10 Truck NerdYouTube · Jan 25, 2025

  • Bolt Pattern: 5x5 or 5x127
  • Lugs: 5 lugs
  • Applies to: 1972 two-wheel-drive C10 trucks 



What is the bolt pattern on a 1970 Chevy Impala?


The 1970 Impala has a bolt pattern of 5x120.65 or 5x4.75 inches. This is a common bolt pattern for many classic American muscle cars from that era. 

  • Bolt pattern: 5x120.65 (also expressed as 5x4.75 inches).
  • Meaning: This means there are 5 lug nuts or bolt holes on a circle with a diameter of 120.65 mm or 4.75 inches.
  • Modern equivalent: While 5x120.65 is the precise measurement, you will often see wheels listed as 5x4.75, which is the same thing.


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.