Does the Center Pilot Hole of a Trailer Wheel have to be Exact

Updated 04/01/2015 | Published 03/30/2015

Question:

Does the rims pilot hole ,or large center hole, need to fit snug onto the center hub? I have pilot holes on rim at 2.50 fit great on hubs with 2.50 others Ive seen are like a 2.80 rim on a 2.50 hub ? Let me know thanks!

asked by: John

Expert Reply:

There are only 2 situations where the size of the pilot whole on a wheel matter.

First, if the wheel secures to the hub using wheel BOLTS instead of lug nuts then the pilot hole has to be exact because that is how the wheel centers on the hub.

Second, if the wheel does secure with lug nuts then if the pilot hole is smaller than the outer diameter of the center of the hub then it would not fit on the hub. The hole can be larger but not smaller if the wheel secures with lug nuts.

expert reply by: Michael H