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Installing 20mm wheel spacers on your Subaru WRX can significantly enhance both its power and performance. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing these spacers, ensuring that you gain maximum benefits from your vehicle.
Why Install Wheel Spacers?
Wheel spacers serve multiple purposes, particularly in enhancing the handling and aesthetics of your Subaru WRX. Here are some reasons to consider:
- Improved Stability: Wheel spacers widen the stance of your vehicle, improving stability during high-speed maneuvers.
- Better Aesthetics: They give your WRX a more aggressive look by pushing the wheels out to the fenders.
- Increased Tire Clearance: Spacers can provide additional clearance for larger tires, enhancing off-road capabilities.
- Improved Handling: A wider track can lead to better cornering and overall handling performance.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start the installation process, gather the following tools and materials:
- 20mm wheel spacers
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Anti-seize lubricant
- Cleaning cloth
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
Begin by ensuring your Subaru WRX is parked on a flat surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent any movement.
Step 2: Lift the Vehicle
Using a jack, lift the front of the vehicle. Secure it with jack stands to ensure safety during the installation process. Repeat this for the rear if you plan to install spacers on both axles.
Step 3: Remove the Wheels
Using a socket wrench, remove the lug nuts from the wheels and take the wheels off. Place them aside in a safe location.
Step 4: Clean the Hub Surface
Before installing the spacers, clean the hub surface thoroughly with a cleaning cloth to remove dirt and debris. This ensures a proper fit and prevents any issues down the line.
Step 5: Apply Anti-Seize Lubricant
Apply a small amount of anti-seize lubricant to the hub surface. This will help in the future when you need to remove the spacers.
Step 6: Install the Wheel Spacers
Position the 20mm wheel spacers onto the hub. Ensure that they fit snugly and are aligned properly. If your spacers have bolts, make sure they are facing outward.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheels
Place the wheels back onto the spacers, ensuring that the lug holes align correctly. Hand-tighten the lug nuts to secure the wheels in place.
Step 8: Torque the Lug Nuts
Using a torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications. This step is crucial to ensure that the wheels are securely fastened.
Step 9: Lower the Vehicle
Carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground using the jack. Remove the jack stands and ensure everything is secure.
Step 10: Final Check
Once the vehicle is on the ground, perform a final check on the lug nuts to ensure they are properly torqued. It’s advisable to recheck them after driving a short distance.
Conclusion
Installing 20mm wheel spacers on your Subaru WRX is a straightforward process that can yield significant improvements in performance and aesthetics. By following these steps carefully, you can enhance your vehicle’s capabilities and enjoy the benefits of a wider stance.