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What year did GM switch from 8x6 5 to 8x180?


General Motors (GM) has a long history of innovation in the automotive industry, and one of the significant changes they made was switching the bolt pattern on their heavy-duty trucks. This article explores the timeline and reasons behind GM's transition from the 8x6.5 bolt pattern to the 8x180 bolt pattern.


The Year of the Change


GM made the switch from the 8x6.5 bolt pattern to the 8x180 bolt pattern in the year 2011. This change was introduced with the release of the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and 3500HD, as well as the GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD models. These trucks marked the beginning of a new generation of GM heavy-duty pickups, featuring enhanced performance, durability, and towing capabilities.


Why Did GM Make the Change?


The decision to move to the 8x180 bolt pattern was driven by several factors:



  • Increased Load Capacity: The new bolt pattern allowed for better distribution of weight and stress, accommodating the higher payload and towing capacities of the updated heavy-duty trucks.

  • Improved Durability: The 8x180 bolt pattern provided a more robust and secure connection between the wheel and the hub, reducing the risk of failure under heavy loads.

  • Modernization: As GM introduced new technologies and designs in their trucks, the updated bolt pattern aligned with the overall modernization of their heavy-duty lineup.


What Does This Mean for Truck Owners?


For truck owners, the switch to the 8x180 bolt pattern means that wheels designed for older GM trucks with the 8x6.5 bolt pattern are not compatible with the newer models. If you're upgrading or replacing wheels on a 2011 or newer GM heavy-duty truck, it's essential to ensure that the wheels match the 8x180 bolt pattern.


Conclusion


The transition from the 8x6.5 to the 8x180 bolt pattern in 2011 was a significant step for GM's heavy-duty trucks, reflecting advancements in engineering and performance. Whether you're a truck enthusiast or a professional relying on these vehicles for work, understanding this change helps ensure compatibility and optimal performance for your GM truck.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do you tell what year a GM block is?


Stamped Numbers are a set of numbers literally stamped into the block. These numbers are stamped into a machined pad in front of the passenger side cylinder head – more than not it's covered up by the alternator. These numbers will tell you where the engine was assembled, production date, and the suffix code.



What trucks have a 8x180 bolt pattern?


List of Vehicles Using the 8×180 Bolt Pattern

MakeModelAvailable Trims
ChevroletSilverado 2500HDWork Truck, LT, LTZ, High Country
ChevroletSilverado 3500HDWork Truck, LT, LTZ, High Country
GMCSierra 2500HDBase, SLE, SLT, Denali
GMCSierra 3500HDBase, SLE, SLT, Denali
Jan 9, 2025



What year did GM start 8x180?


This bolt pattern is commonly used for the GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500, as well as the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500. In 2011, the old bolt pattern (8x6. 5) was switched out for the 8x180 bolt pattern.



Are all Chevy 6 lug patterns the same?


Not all Chevy 6 lug patterns are the same. Two different models with the same number of lugs might not have identical patterns. However, many manufacturers will use the same bolt pattern for all of their vehicles, or use the same bolt pattern within different classes of their vehicles.



When did Chevy go from 8x6.5 to 8x180?


^^ yup, 2011 is when the lug pattern changed for the HD trucks. Went from 8x6. 5 to 8x180.



What lug pattern is a 2011 Chevy 2500HD?


8x180
What is the bolt pattern on the Chevy Silverado 2500? Late generation Chevy Silverado 2500 trucks have an 8x180 bolt pattern, although earlier models featured an 8x165. 1 bolt pattern (AKA 8x6. 5 rims).



When did Chevy stop using 8X6 5?


2011 was a year of change for both the GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 and also the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500. Switching from the long standing 8x6.



What year did Dodge stop using 8x6 5?


2/4/24 11:16 p.m. Gm swapped from 8x6. 5 to 8x180 in 2011, so you want 2010 or earlier, assuming you want 8x6.



What is the bolt pattern on a 2010 GMC Sierra 2500hd?


The bolt pattern is 8x165 or 8x6. 5. These will bolt onto your truck without spacers or adapter kits needed.



What trucks use the 8X6 5 lug pattern?


Bolt Pattern Chart

TRUCKYEARBOLT CIRCLE
Dodge Ram 3/4-ton14-Current8X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)69-938X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)94-118X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)12-188X6.5


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

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.