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When did Dodge change their 8 lug bolt pattern?

Dodge, the iconic American automotive brand, made a significant change to their 8 lug bolt pattern in the late 1970s. This change had a significant impact on the compatibility of Dodge trucks and SUVs with aftermarket wheels and accessories.


The Dodge 8 Lug Bolt Pattern


Dodge trucks and SUVs have traditionally used an 8 lug bolt pattern, which refers to the number and arrangement of the lug nuts that secure the wheels to the vehicle. This pattern was a common feature on Dodge's heavy-duty models, such as the Ram 2500 and 3500, as well as some of their larger SUVs like the Dodge Ramcharger.


The 8 lug bolt pattern provided increased strength and stability, making it a popular choice for vehicles that were expected to carry heavy loads or tow large trailers. However, this pattern also meant that Dodge owners had a more limited selection of aftermarket wheels and accessories that would fit their vehicles.


The Change to a 6 Lug Bolt Pattern


In the late 1970s, Dodge made the decision to change the bolt pattern on many of their trucks and SUVs from 8 lugs to 6 lugs. This change was likely driven by a desire to reduce weight and manufacturing costs, as well as to align with industry trends at the time.


The transition to a 6 lug bolt pattern began in the 1979 model year and continued through the 1980s. This change made Dodge vehicles more compatible with a wider range of aftermarket wheels and accessories, as the 6 lug pattern was more common across the automotive industry.web>


Impact on Dodge Owners


The change in bolt pattern had a significant impact on Dodge owners, particularly those with older vehicles that still had the 8 lug setup. Owners of these vehicles found that their options for upgrading or replacing wheels were more limited, as many aftermarket wheel manufacturers had shifted their focus to the more common 6 lug pattern.


However, the change also opened up new opportunities for Dodge owners, as they could now choose from a wider selection of wheels and accessories that would fit their vehicles. This allowed for more customization and personalization of their Dodge trucks and SUVs.


Conclusion


The change in Dodge's 8 lug bolt pattern to a 6 lug pattern in the late 1970s was a significant event in the brand's history. While it may have caused some inconvenience for owners of older Dodge vehicles, the change ultimately made Dodge trucks and SUVs more compatible with the broader automotive market, allowing for greater customization and personalization.

When did RAM switch to 8x200 bolt pattern?


Bolt Pattern Chart

TRUCKYEARBOLT CIRCLE
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)94-118X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)12-188X6.5
Dodge Ram 1-ton Pickup (Single & Dual)19-Current8X200mm
Ford 1/2-ton Pickup (F-150)59-965X5.5



When did RAM change the lug pattern?


2019-Present Models (Fifth Generation) Beginning with the fifth generation introduced in 2019, RAM made a significant change to the bolt pattern of the 1500 models. Current RAM 1500 trucks feature a 6×139.7mm pattern, which includes: 6 lug nuts (increased from 5 in previous generations)



Are 8x6.5 and 8x165 the same?


Yes, "8x165" and "8x6.5" refer to the same bolt pattern, as 165.1 millimeters is equal to 6.5 inches. The notation 8x165 uses millimeters, while 8x6.5 uses inches, but they both describe a wheel with eight lug holes spaced in a circle that measures 165.1 mm or 6.5 inches across. 

  • 8x165: This notation uses millimeters to measure the bolt circle diameter. 
  • 8x6.5: This notation uses inches to measure the bolt circle diameter. 
  • Conversion: 165.1 mm≈6.5 inches165.1 mm is approximately equal to 6.5 inches165.1 mm≈6.5 inches. 
  • Compatibility: Wheels designed for an 8x165 bolt pattern will fit on a vehicle with an 8x6.5 bolt pattern, and vice versa. 



When did Dodge switch to 8x180?


5 to 8x180 in 2011, so you want 2010 or earlier, assuming you want 8x6. 5. 2/4/24 11:18 p.m. Dodge still runs 8x6.


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.