Wheel Spacers for RVs and Trailers: Are They Worth It?

When it comes to upgrading or enhancing your RV or trailer, wheel spacers are often a topic of discussion. But are they really worth the investment? Whether you’re looking for improved handling, increased tire clearance, or just a custom look, wheel spacers might offer the solution. In this blog, we’ll dive into what wheel spacers are, their benefits, potential drawbacks, and when they might be a smart addition to your RV or trailer.

What Are Wheel Spacers?

Wheel spacers are components that fit between the wheel and the hub of a vehicle. They’re designed to push the wheel outward, increasing the vehicle’s overall track width. This can affect everything from handling to aesthetics. There are two main types of spacers:

• Slip-On Spacers: These simply slide onto the wheel hub and bolt into place.
• Bolt-On Spacers: These spacers include their own set of bolts, attaching directly to the hub and offering more security.

Why RV and Trailer Owners Consider Wheel Spacers

RVs and trailers are built to handle heavy loads, rough terrain, and long trips. Wheel spacers are a popular modification for owners looking to improve the performance, safety, and appearance of their vehicles. Here’s why many RV and trailer owners consider them:

• Improved Stability and Handling: Adding spacers can increase the width of your stance, offering better stability when turning or driving in windy conditions, especially when towing.
• Increased Tire Clearance: In some cases, adding spacers can prevent the tires from rubbing against the vehicle’s frame, ensuring a smoother ride and preventing damage to tires or suspension.
• Aesthetic Appeal: For those who prefer a custom look, wheel spacers give your RV or trailer a wider, more aggressive stance that can make it stand out.
• Better Load Distribution: By increasing the width between your wheels, spacers can help distribute weight more evenly, which can improve the overall balance of the vehicle.

The Benefits of Using Wheel Spacers for RVs and Trailers

1. Improved Handling
   With spacers, your RV or trailer gains a wider stance, which enhances stability, especially when cornering. This is particularly beneficial when towing or driving in crosswinds. The added width improves the overall handling and reduces the risk of swaying or fishtailing.
2. Better Towing Performance
   When towing heavy loads, wheel spacers help in stabilizing the vehicle, making towing smoother and less stressful on your suspension. They allow for more even weight distribution, which can make a significant difference in how your vehicle drives, particularly on long trips or uneven terrain.
3. More Tire Options
   Depending on your RV or trailer’s setup, wheel spacers may provide the clearance needed to install larger or wider tires. This opens up more options for tire selection, allowing you to choose tires that perform better under specific conditions, such as off-roading or heavy towing.
4. Increased Ground Clearance
   If you’re using your RV or trailer for off-road adventures or on rough terrain, wheel spacers can help increase ground clearance. This is especially important for navigating obstacles or uneven ground without damaging your vehicle.
5. Aesthetic Improvements
   For many, the look of a vehicle is just as important as its performance. Wheel spacers give your RV or trailer a more aggressive, wide-body look, enhancing its visual appeal. This modification is particularly popular among those who want their vehicles to stand out on the road.

Potential Drawbacks or Concerns

While wheel spacers offer several benefits, they are not without their potential drawbacks:

1. Increased Strain on Suspension
   Spacers push the wheels further out from the vehicle’s hub, which can add extra strain to your suspension components. Over time, this could lead to increased wear and tear on suspension parts, which could result in costly repairs.
2. Reduced Fuel Efficiency
   Since wheel spacers widen the vehicle’s stance, it may slightly affect aerodynamics, potentially leading to a small decrease in fuel efficiency. While the difference might not be significant, it’s something to consider, especially for long-haul trips.
3. Uneven Tire Wear
   If wheel spacers aren’t installed correctly or if the vehicle isn’t properly aligned afterward, they could lead to uneven tire wear. This could reduce the lifespan of your tires and increase the frequency of replacements.
4. Cost vs. Benefit
   While wheel spacers are generally an affordable upgrade, the benefits might not justify the cost for every RV or trailer owner. If you don’t need the additional stability or clearance, it might be better to save your money for other upgrades.

When Are Wheel Spacers Not Recommended?

While wheel spacers can be a great addition for many RV and trailer owners, there are certain situations where they might not be the best choice:

• Limited Suspension Capacity: If your RV or trailer has a weak suspension system, adding spacers could exacerbate existing issues, causing more harm than good.
• Unnecessary Width: If your vehicle is already stable and handling well without spacers, adding them might not make much of a difference. In fact, the extra width could actually become a hindrance in some cases, particularly in tight spaces or narrow roads.
• Legal or Safety Concerns: In some jurisdictions, the use of wheel spacers is regulated. Make sure to check local laws before adding spacers to ensure you’re in compliance. Additionally, improperly installed spacers can create safety issues.

How to Choose the Right Wheel Spacers for Your RV or Trailer

If you decide wheel spacers are a good fit for your RV or trailer, here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Wheel Bolt Pattern: Ensure the wheel spacers match your vehicle’s bolt pattern. This is a crucial step for proper installation and safety.
• Thickness: The spacer thickness depends on how much clearance or width you need. Be careful not to overdo it—too much width could negatively affect your handling.
• Material: Opt for high-quality materials like aluminum or steel. These materials are strong, lightweight, and durable, ensuring a long lifespan for your spacers.
• Quality: Don’t skimp on quality. Cheap spacers can compromise safety, so invest in trusted brands like Orion Motor Tech or consult with professionals to choose the right ones for your needs.

Conclusion

Wheel spacers can be a worthwhile investment for certain RV and trailer owners, particularly if you’re looking to improve handling, towing performance, or clearance. However, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Weigh the benefits against the potential downsides, and consider your specific needs before making the decision. If you’re looking to enhance your vehicle’s performance or appearance, wheel spacers may be just the modification you’re after. But if they don’t align with your needs, you might be better off skipping this upgrade.