The configuration of mounting holes on a wheel hub, critical for secure wheel attachment, follows a specific design. This design is defined by the number of studs or bolts and the diameter of the circle they form. For example, a wheel described as having a six-lug, 5.5-inch configuration indicates six mounting points positioned on a circle with a 5.5-inch diameter.
Proper wheel installation relies on the accuracy of this configuration. Mismatched wheels can cause vibration, damage to vehicle components, and potential wheel detachment, posing significant safety risks. Historical adoption of this specification can be traced to vehicle manufacturing standards focused on ensuring compatibility across replacement parts and maintaining vehicle performance under various operating conditions.