Will 1990 Dodge 4WD Wheels Fit a 1990 Geo Tracker? A Comprehensive Guide
The simple answer is: maybe. Whether or not 1990 Dodge 4WD wheels will fit your 1990 Geo Tracker depends on several crucial factors beyond just the year of the vehicle. Let's break down the key elements you need to consider.
What Determines Wheel Compatibility?
Several factors determine whether wheels from one vehicle will fit another. It's not as simple as matching the year! You need to carefully examine these aspects:
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Bolt Pattern (PCD): This refers to the number of lug nuts and the diameter of the circle they form. This is the most critical factor. If the bolt patterns don't match, the wheels won't even mount. You'll need to find the bolt pattern for both your 1990 Geo Tracker and the specific 1990 Dodge 4WD model (there were many variations).
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Wheel Offset: This is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. Incorrect offset can cause rubbing against the suspension, brakes, or body. The offset needs to be compatible to avoid clearance issues.
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Wheel Diameter: This is the overall size of the wheel. While a larger diameter might fit, it could affect your speedometer accuracy and potentially cause rubbing. Sticking to the original or a very similar diameter is recommended.
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Wheel Width: Similar to diameter, the width of the wheel needs to be carefully considered to avoid rubbing issues.
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Center Bore: This is the hole in the center of the wheel that fits over the hub. If the center bore is too small, the wheel won't fit over the hub. If it's too large, you'll need hub-centric rings to prevent vibrations.
Finding the Necessary Information
To determine compatibility, you need to find the specifications for both sets of wheels:
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1990 Geo Tracker Wheel Specs: Consult your owner's manual or a reputable online automotive parts database (like those offered by major auto parts retailers). Look for the bolt pattern, offset, diameter, width, and center bore.
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1990 Dodge 4WD Wheel Specs: This is trickier as "1990 Dodge 4WD" encompasses many models (e.g., Dakota, Ramcharger, Power Ram). You MUST identify the specific Dodge model you're considering wheels from. Then, repeat the process above to find its wheel specifications.
Will They Fit? A More Realistic Answer
Without knowing the exact Dodge 4WD model, it's impossible to give a definitive yes or no. Even with the same year, different Dodge models will have different wheel specifications. There's a significant chance they won't fit due to mismatched bolt patterns or offset.
What Happens if They Don't Fit?
If the bolt patterns don't match, the wheels simply won't mount. Incorrect offset can lead to:
- Rubbing: The tires might rub against the suspension, brakes, or body, causing damage and potentially dangerous handling.
- Vibration: An improper fit can cause noticeable vibrations, especially at higher speeds.
- Damage to your vehicle: Forcing incompatible wheels onto your Geo Tracker could damage the wheel studs, brake calipers, or other components.
