Remove and Install a wheel

This article is designed to show how to remove a wheel so work can be performed on any level (brakes, suspension, etc). This article also shows how to secure the wheel properly with guide lines and recommendations for which tools to use.

Locate the lug nuts/bolts

Determine the socket size to use

This is a 19mm lug bolt

Use a breaker bar and socket to loosen the bolts before jacking up the vehicle.

Refer to the “tools section” for a link to see these tools.

Refer to the “how to use a Jack and stands” for the proper way to lift and support a vehicle.

The most important part about having a wheel off is the installation. Make sure to use a torque wrench when tightening a wheel.

torque wrenches

Torque wrenches are designed to properly tighten lug nuts/bolts to manufacture specifications. If not tightened correctly, you can do damage to the lugs, alloy wheels, and even possibly to the brake rotor as well.

Torque wrenches usually have a torque chart located on the side to show the range of torque this tool can provide.

This one ranges from 30-200 foot pounds of torque.

The handle turns to increase or decrease the torque to be applied.

When applying torque to the bolt being tightened, the torque wrench will click or give a pop feeling in the tool when the desired amount of torque has been reached.

Note:This alloy wheel has a torque specification of 80 foot pounds. To find your recommended torque spec., refer to your repair manual or call a local shop to find out.

Cool tools to have

Here is a tool that can help to speed up the job, or allow you to change a spare tire with ease.

A cordless battery powered Impact gun

Removal and Installation of lug nuts/bolts only!!

The wheel torque still needs to be done to prevent damage from over torque or keep you from losing of a wheel from under torque.