Will 1990 Dodge 4WD Wheels Fit a 1990 Geo Tracker? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: probably not, but it depends on several factors. While both vehicles are from the same era, their wheel bolt patterns, wheel offsets, and overall wheel dimensions are likely different. Simply having a 4WD drivetrain doesn't guarantee compatibility. Let's delve into the specifics to understand why.
What Determines Wheel Compatibility?
Several key factors determine whether wheels from one vehicle will fit another:
- Bolt Pattern (PCD): This refers to the number of lug nuts and the diameter of the circle they form on the wheel. A mismatch here means the wheels won't even mount to the hubs.
- Wheel Offset: This is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. Incorrect offset can cause rubbing against the suspension or bodywork.
- Wheel Diameter and Width: The diameter (size) and width of the wheel must be compatible with the vehicle's suspension and braking system. Too large a diameter could cause clearance issues, while too wide a wheel might rub against components.
- Center Bore: This is the hole in the center of the wheel that fits over the hub. If the center bore of the Dodge wheel is too small for the Geo Tracker hub, it won't fit properly.
Why 1990 Dodge 4WD Wheels are Unlikely to Fit a 1990 Geo Tracker
Dodge trucks and Geo Trackers, even though both were produced in 1990 and have 4WD options, likely utilize different specifications for their wheels. Dodge trucks, especially of that era, are typically much larger and heavier vehicles than the Geo Tracker. This means they often have a different bolt pattern, wider wheels, and a different offset.
How to Determine Compatibility:
To definitively know if 1990 Dodge 4WD wheels will fit your 1990 Geo Tracker, you need to:
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Identify the Bolt Pattern (PCD) of both vehicles: Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or online resources to find the bolt pattern for your Geo Tracker and for the specific Dodge 4WD model in question (e.g., Dakota, Ramcharger, etc.). Look for specifications like "5x4.5" or "5x114.3" – these indicate five lug nuts on a circle with a diameter of 4.5 inches or 114.3 millimeters, respectively.
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Check the Wheel Offset: Similarly, find the wheel offset specification for both vehicles. This is often expressed as a positive or negative number (e.g., +35mm, -10mm).
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Compare Wheel Diameter and Width: Note the diameter (e.g., 15", 16") and width (e.g., 7", 8") of the Dodge wheels and compare them to the specifications recommended for your Geo Tracker.
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Verify Center Bore Diameter: Confirm the center bore diameter of the Dodge wheels to ensure it matches or is slightly larger than the Geo Tracker's hub. A too-small center bore can lead to vibrations and safety issues.
What if the Bolt Pattern Matches?
Even if the bolt pattern matches, there's still no guarantee of a perfect fit. Mismatched offsets can lead to rubbing and handling problems. The wheel diameter and width must also be compatible with the Geo Tracker's suspension and braking system.
In Conclusion:
It is highly improbable that 1990 Dodge 4WD wheels will fit a 1990 Geo Tracker without modification, which is rarely a practical option. Always verify the specifications mentioned above before attempting to install any wheels. Using incorrect wheels can compromise safety and handling. It's strongly recommended to stick to wheels specifically designed for your Geo Tracker to ensure a safe and trouble-free driving experience.
