What wheels fit a Model A?
The wheels that fit a Ford Model A depend on the specific year and model of the vehicle. Generally, the original Model A wheels were 21 inches in diameter and had a 4.75-inch bolt pattern. However, there are several options for upgrading or replacing the wheels on a Model A to improve performance and appearance.
Original Model A Wheels
The Ford Model A was produced from 1927 to 1931, and the original wheels were 21 inches in diameter with a 4.75-inch bolt pattern. These wheels were made of steel and had a distinctive "artillery" style design, with spokes radiating out from the center hub.
Wheel Upgrade Options
While the original 21-inch wheels can still be used on a Model A, many owners choose to upgrade to larger wheels for improved handling and a more modern look. Some popular wheel upgrade options include:
- 15-inch or 16-inch steel wheels with a 4.75-inch bolt pattern
- Aftermarket aluminum or alloy wheels with a 4.75-inch bolt pattern
- Wheels with a 5-lug bolt pattern, which requires modifying the hubs
When selecting new wheels, it's important to ensure they have the correct bolt pattern and diameter to fit the Model A's hubs and brakes. Upgrading the wheels may also require changes to the tires, suspension, and other components.
Tire Considerations
In addition to the wheels, the tires on a Model A also need to be carefully selected. The original tires were typically 4.75-19 or 5.25-19 in size, but modern radial tires in sizes like 185/70R15 or 195/65R15 can also be used with upgraded wheels.
When choosing new tires, it's important to consider factors like load capacity, speed rating, and tread pattern to ensure they are compatible with the Model A's driving characteristics and intended use.
What wheels fit a model Ford?
19x3 Ford Model A Welded Spoke Wheel
Made in the USA, these Model A wheels are a perfect bolt on fit. The Roadster Welded Wire wheels come in either a 19 or 21 inch diameter, both are 3 inches wide. The 21 inch comes with a knife edge. The 19 inch has a rolled edge.
Can I put any wheels on my Tesla?
Yes, you can put different rims on a Tesla, but it's important to ensure they have the correct bolt pattern, which is 5x114.3mm for Model 3 and Y, and 5x120mm for Model S and X. Aftermarket rims can improve a car's aesthetics and performance, but they may also affect battery range and efficiency, so it's crucial to choose rims that are compatible with your car and consider their weight, says this Quora thread and this Facebook post.
Things to consider before swapping rims
- Bolt pattern: Ensure your new rims have the correct bolt pattern for your Tesla model. Model 3 and Y use a 5x114.3mm pattern, while Model S and X use a 5x120mm pattern.
- Weight: Lighter rims can reduce unsprung weight, which can improve handling and performance, according to Discount Tire and this YouTube video. However, heavier rims may have a negative impact on efficiency and range, says this Facebook post.
- Fitment: The wheels should fit without rubbing against the brake calipers or suspension components. It's recommended to check the wheel specifications, such as width and offset, to ensure a proper fit, as discussed in this YouTube video.
- Tire size: Using the correct tire size is essential for accurate speedometer readings, proper ABS and Autopilot function, and maintaining safety.
- Calibration: After installing new rims, you may need to recalibrate your vehicle's computer settings for wheel and tire configuration, as mentioned in this YouTube video.
- Safety: Tesla's service documentation advises using only new, Tesla-approved parts for repairs and replacements to maintain vehicle integrity and safety.
Where to find and install rims
- You can find a wide selection of rims at online and local tire shops, such as Discount Tire and Fifteen52.
- You can install the rims yourself if you have the right tools and knowledge, or have a professional at a tire shop do it for you, says this Reddit post.
What size are Model A wheels?
- From 1930 and onwards the Ford Model A was fitted with 19 inch wheels with tyre size 4.75x19. Blockley is the only tyre company in the world that produces a genuine 475x19 tyre size, which is marked on it's sidewall 475/500x19 because people are often asking for this!
What is the bolt pattern on a Ford Model A?
A Ford Model A has a 5 on 5.5-inch bolt pattern, meaning there are five lug bolts spaced on a 5.5-inch diameter circle. This is the correct bolt pattern for all Model A wheels, from 1928 to 1931, whether they are the original 21-inch or 19-inch diameters.
This video explains how to measure a bolt pattern on a Model A wheel: 55sHot Rod DadYouTube · Oct 16, 2023
Key details
You can watch this video to learn how to measure a bolt pattern: 1mCurrie EnterprisesYouTube · Jul 14, 2020
- Bolt pattern: 5 lugs on a 5.5-inch bolt circle.
- Identification: This is the easiest way to distinguish a Model A wheel from a Model T wheel, which has a 5 on 5-inch bolt circle.
- Wheel diameter: The bolt pattern is the same for both 21-inch wheels (1928–29) and 19-inch wheels (1930–31), though the wheels themselves are different sizes.
- Interchangeability: Other wheels with a 5 on 5.5-inch bolt pattern may fit, such as wheels from older Ford trucks or certain Jeep models.
