I am switching to the 16x8 15 hole wheels from a w129. I have read everything I could get my hands on re: spacers and decided to give it a try. My probnlem is lug bolts, the OEM bolts are fine from the stop to the bolt head but the thread is not long enough....What should I do? (besides throwing away the spacers)

I would first find my old wheels and lugs, insert a bolt into the wheel, and measure how far the bolt protrudes from the back of the wheel in millimeters.

This is how far the "new" lugs should protrude thru the back of the SPACER . Use an old lug for test fits.

Lug lengths are measured from the base of the "seat" to the tip. Say the measurement from you stock setup is protruding 18 mm (mine was). You insert the old lug into your new setup and it only shows 3 mm of protrusion. If you original lug was 25 long add the difference (18-3=15) and order new 40 mm lugs. Luke (Tirerack) can help you, or a local tire shop.

If you use lug bolts that are too long you can really mess up your brakes big time. You should have at least 6 full turns of engagement upon installation (count the # of threads showing protruding thru the back of the spacer. Should be > 6 ).

BTW, you don't say what you're driving, but most modern Benzes use a lug bolt diameter of 12 and a thread pitch of 1.5 .

Contrary to popular belief, spacers are fine. Paul.

[ edit ]

oops! just noticed, you DID tell me what you drive. I hope my dimensions are correct....I beleive they are.

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Give luke a call, he can get ya the right lugs ya need.

You might need to get longer ones and have them cut down a bit.

Or try globe tire and motorsports in LA. La cienega and Venice blvd.

They should be able to help you out.

Alon

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'92 300CE - Sold
2004 C240 - 744 - C7 Wheels - Android Radio
2002 C320 - 816 - Sport Wagon - Sold
2006 E350 Wagon - 368 - Dead
2015 GL350 Bluetec - 197U