The bolt pattern for a 1999 Ford F-250 Super Duty 7.3 Diesel is 8x170. This specific pattern is crucial for ensuring proper fitment when selecting wheels for your truck.
Understanding the 8x170 Bolt Pattern
The "8x170" designation provides two key pieces of information regarding your truck's wheel mounting specifications:
- 8 Lugs: This indicates that the wheel is secured to the hub by eight lug nuts or bolts. Heavy-duty trucks like the F-250 Super Duty often feature more lugs to distribute weight and torque effectively, providing enhanced strength and safety.
- 170mm Bolt Circle Diameter (BCD): This number represents the diameter of the imaginary circle that passes through the center of all eight lug holes. The measurement is given in millimeters. Matching this diameter precisely is vital for proper wheel alignment and to prevent vibrations or damage.
For Ford Super Duty trucks manufactured in 1999 and subsequent years, the 8x170 bolt pattern became standard, distinguishing them from earlier models which typically used an 8x165.1mm (or 8x6.5 inch) pattern. This change means that wheels from older Ford F-250 models are generally not compatible with the 1999 Super Duty and newer versions.
Why Bolt Pattern Matters
Choosing wheels with the correct bolt pattern is non-negotiable for vehicle safety and performance. An incorrect bolt pattern can lead to:
- Improper Wheel Fitment: Wheels may not sit flush against the hub, leading to instability.
- Vibrations: Misaligned wheels can cause noticeable vibrations, especially at higher speeds.
- Stress on Components: Incorrect fitment can put undue stress on wheel studs, bearings, and other suspension components, leading to premature wear or failure.
- Safety Hazards: In severe cases, wheels could detach, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
Specifications Summary
For clarity, here's a quick overview of the bolt pattern for your 1999 Ford F-250 Super Duty 7.3 Diesel:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Bolt Pattern | 8x170 |
| Number of Lugs | 8 |
| Bolt Circle Diameter | 170mm |
| Vehicle Type | F-250 Super Duty 7.3 Diesel |
| Model Year | 1999 |
When shopping for aftermarket wheels or replacement rims for your 1999 Ford F-250 Super Duty 7.3 Diesel, always confirm that they explicitly match the 8x170 bolt pattern.
