Can you use clip on wheel weights on all wheels?
Wheel Weights FAQ
All wheels can accept stick on wheel weights, but not all wheels can accept traditional clip-on wheel weights.
Clip on wheel weights are a common type of wheel weight. It is fixed to the edge of the wheel rim by a hook structure. This type of weight is relatively easy to install and does not require a complicated sticking process. Just clip the hook in the right position of the rim. Moreover, the weight specifications of clip on wheel weights are diverse and need to be flexibly selected according to the specific imbalance of the wheel.
Currently, there are two types of wheels on the market: steel wheels and aluminum wheels, which have obvious differences in material properties. Steel has relatively high hardness and toughness, and its rim surface is relatively rough. This rough surface can provide better friction and grip for the hook. Steel wheels usually pay more attention to strength in manufacturing process, and the adaptability of the wheel weight hook mainly considers whether it can be firmly fixed to withstand various forces during vehicle driving.
Aluminum wheels are made of aluminum alloy, which is relatively soft and has a smoother surface. In addition to strength, aluminum wheels are designed to focus on appearance and lightness. If the hook-type balancing weight for steel wheels is directly used on aluminum wheels, the hook may not be able to grab it due to the smooth surface of the aluminum wheel, and it is easy to loosen. Moreover, during the installation of the hook, the surface of the aluminum wheel may be scratched, affecting the appearance and performance of the aluminum wheel.
The rim structure of steel wheels and aluminum wheels is also different. The rim edge of the steel wheel is usually thicker, with enough space to accommodate and fix the hook-type balancing weight. The hook can be deeply embedded in the rim edge to ensure that the balancing weight is firmly installed.
The rim edge of the aluminum wheel may be relatively thin, in order to achieve the design purpose of beauty and lightweight. Its structure has higher requirements for the balancing weight hook, and a specially designed hook is required to adapt to the thinner edge to prevent the balancing weight from protruding too much after installation and affecting the overall appearance of the wheel, or the rim is damaged due to an inappropriate hook.
Therefore, different clip on wheel weights should be selected for different wheels