6 lug conversion?

[stangracr]

OK, I used the search function to no avail. Anyone got any info on doing a 5 to 6 lug conversion (adapters) on a 2000 Expy? I've bought a set of 2017 6 lug rims (6x135) and tires dirt cheap. I can just swap the tires to the stock (5x135) rims but I like the look of the new rims.
Thanks for any input and advice.

 

[ExplorerTom]

You'll need a wheel adapter. It's a spacer that also has a different bolt pattern in it.

 

[stangracr]

I've found some and that's my main question. Has anyone had any experience with them...one brand better than others?

 

[ddeloge]

YES! don't get cheep aluminum ones!!! Spend a little more and get STEEL! Your life depends on the right decision here. Also, they need to be HUBCENTRIC, not lug centric, and the studs on your factory hubs will need trimming to assure the new mounting surface is not obstructed. Last, check the torque of the adapters within 500 miles of installation (this requires removing the wheels). Follow these guidelines and you should be OK.

 

[Tocapet]

There's a better way to do that, but it involves some expense and research. Try to find axles and front hubs with 6 lugs that will interchange with yours and swap them out. I did that on a Chevy pickup once. I changed the rear end and the front hubs from a passenger car and went from 6 lugs to 5 and ran 14" wheels on it.

 

[TURNERTEAM]

IF YOU GO WITH ADAPTER YOUR GOING TO HAVE TO SHAVE A BIT OFF EACH STUD M NO BIG DEAL IF YOU DO IT YOURSELF MOST TIRE SHOPS WILL NOT PERFORM THAT. i DID MINE AND I HAVE A 2001 EXPEDITION XLT WITH FIVE STUDS INSTEAD OF 6 NOW i HAVE 6 THANKS TO MY ADAPTERS AND COMPLETELY SATIFIED RUNNING 22 S CHECK MY FACEBOOK PAGE CHRISTOPHER JOHN TURNER MY MAIN PICTURE IS A .50 CALIBER GOLD AE FIREARM I JUST POSTED PICS OF MY TRUCK ON THERE IN THE SNOW THIS MORNING AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK I HAVE A 3 INCH LEVELING KIT ON THE FRONT

 

[Adieu]

Lol.

So, uhm, yeah....DON'T run adapters.

 

[TURNERTEAM]

Run them I have had mine for 1 1/2 years been off road no problems

 

[hertfordnc]

I searched around the F150 forums for an answer as i am curious about this myself. Actually converting the hubs to six lugs is pretty impractical unless you have a donor vehicle and can take EVERYTHING so you might be left with wheel converters.

As for the safety of steel versus aluminum, I have no direct experience but from what I've read, under normal driving the aluminum adapters are adequate.

The stories of failure seem to come from the performance/offroad crowd.

The manufacturers of those things must have some liability disclaimer and I assume it includes the phrase "normal operating conditions"

Seems to me an adapter is no more likely to rip apart under the same load than the aluminum wheels.