Lug nuts aren't tapered, why?

[Shane]

I have 2000 ex 4x4 with stock wheels. I don't know why the lug nuts aren't tapered? My wheels have the capability to shift at least 1/8" in any direction before the lug nuts are tightened, and since they aren't tapered, the wheel won't automatically be centered. Is there something I am missing? Is there a way to get the wheel centered on the hub accurately, or a conversion kit, or just buy better wheels?

[bockhold]

are your lug nuts the ones with a washer deal fuesed with it?

[Big Tone]

If you have stock wheels they are hub piloted, if you have after market wheels you need to buy 32 tapered lug nuts.

[Shane]

Yes, I have the lug nuts with washers. If the hub is supposed to center the wheel, mine has way too much slop in it. There is at least 1/8" play in any direction. This is likely part of the reason I have such a terrible time with the truck shaking at various speeds. Tires have worn unevenly, despite having them balanced quite a few times.

So is there some way to get the wheels to center properly, or should I buy new wheels, or just not worry about it?

[JSchuricht]

See if you can find some hubcentric adapters for your wheels.

[Discount Tire Direct]

Can you post up some shots for us to see? The factory wheels should be hub centric and not shift on the hub assembly.

[Shane]

OK, I got new tires at a different tire shop. I explained the problem and I don't know what they did, but my ride is as smooth as glass! Now I will never rotate my tires or check the brakes or do anything else that requires taking those stupid wheels off!

[elibenson]

If you have the stock aluminum wheels, they should be centered on the hub. Some times so tight that they need a big hammer to get them off. More than that, there should be very little room around the lug bolts. By the time you get them tightened, they should be true.

[cndrm]

Originally Posted by Shane

OK, I got new tires at a different tire shop. I explained the problem and I don't know what they did, but my ride is as smooth as glass! Now I will never rotate my tires or check the brakes or do anything else that requires taking those stupid wheels off!

I wouldn't go that far. If you don't rotate your tires, they won't wear evenly, and you'll be lucky to get 15-20K out of a set of tires. But, with that being said, if you just got new tires, the shop you got your tires at, should rotate your tires for you for free.

mike