2017 Ford F150 Bolt Pattern – The Essential Guide For Perfect Wheel
The 2017 Ford F-150 uses a 6x135mm bolt pattern, a standard measurement that ensures your wheels stay securely fastened to the hub. Understanding this specific layout is the first step toward choosing the right aftermarket rims or performing routine tire maintenance safely.
Do you feel like your truck needs a wider stance or perhaps a fresh set of off-road alloys? Finding the right wheels starts with one specific measurement: the 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern. Getting this wrong means wheels that won’t mount, or worse, wheels that vibrate and cause damage while you are driving.
In this guide, I will break down everything you need to know about your truck’s lug configuration. We will look at measurements, torque requirements, and how to avoid the most common mistakes DIYers make. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a daily commuter, this info will keep your rig rolling smoothly.
I have spent years under trucks, swapping sets for the trail and the street. I promise to give you the practical, “grease-under-the-fingernails” advice you need to get the job done right. Let’s dive into the technical details and get your F-150 set up for success.
What Exactly Is the 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern?
The 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern consists of six lug holes arranged in a circle with a diameter of 135 millimeters. In the automotive world, we often shorthand this as 6×135. If you prefer imperial measurements, this translates to approximately 6×5.31 inches.
Ford transitioned to this specific 6-lug layout back in 2004 for the F-150 lineup. It was designed to handle the increased towing and payload capacities of the modern half-ton truck. By using six lugs instead of five, the engineers distributed the clamping force more evenly across the wheel hub.
When you are shopping for new wheels, you must ensure the 6×135 specification is listed. A common mistake is assuming all 6-lug trucks are the same. For example, many Chevy and Toyota trucks use a 6×139.7 pattern, which will not fit your Ford.
The Importance of the Center Bore
While the bolt pattern is the star of the show, the center bore is the supporting actor you cannot ignore. For the 2017 F-150, the center bore is 87.1mm. This is the diameter of the hole in the very center of the wheel.
The F-150 uses a hub-centric design. This means the wheel centers itself on the hub’s physical lip rather than just the lug studs. If you buy aftermarket wheels with a larger bore, you should use hub-centric rings to bridge the gap and prevent high-speed vibrations.
Thread Pitch and Lug Nut Specs
Your 2017 F-150 uses M14 x 1.5 thread pitch lug nuts. The “M14” refers to the 14mm diameter of the stud, and the “1.5” refers to the distance between the threads in millimeters. Using the wrong thread pitch will strip your studs instantly.
Most factory wheels use a large acorn-style seat. If you switch to aftermarket wheels, check if they require “tapered” or “spline-drive” lug nuts. Always match the lug nut seat style to the wheel’s mounting hole to ensure a secure connection.
Essential Tools for DIY Wheel Maintenance
Before you start pulling wheels off in your driveway, you need the right gear. Working on a heavy truck requires sturdier tools than a small sedan. Safety is your top priority when supporting a vehicle that weighs over 5,000 pounds.
First, you need a high-quality floor jack rated for at least 3 tons. The “widow-maker” scissor jack included in your truck’s kit is only for roadside emergencies. For home maintenance, use a hydraulic floor jack and a pair of heavy-duty jack stands.
You will also need a 21mm deep-well socket. This is the standard size for the factory lug nuts on a 2017 F-150. I recommend using a 1/2-inch drive breaker bar to loosen the nuts and a calibrated torque wrench to tighten them back down.
- 3-ton floor jack and jack stands.
- 21mm deep-well socket (preferably impact-rated).
- 1/2-inch drive torque wrench (capable of 150 lb-ft).
- Wire brush to clean the hub surface.
- Anti-seize lubricant (use sparingly on the hub face, not the threads).
Never use an impact wrench to do the final tightening of your lug nuts. While it is faster, it often leads to uneven pressure or over-tightening. This can warp your brake rotors or cause a stud to snap while you are driving down the highway.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Wheels
Changing a wheel seems simple, but there is a specific sequence to follow for safety. Start by parking on a flat, level concrete surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the tires that will remain on the ground.
While the truck is still on the ground, use your breaker bar to “crack” the lug nuts loose. Only turn them about half a turn. This prevents the wheel from spinning in the air while you try to fight a stubborn nut.
Position your jack under the designated lift points on the frame. Lift the truck until the tire clears the ground by an inch or two. Slide your jack stand under the frame rail and slowly lower the jack until the weight is supported by the stand.
- Remove the lug nuts fully and pull the wheel straight off the studs.
- Clean the mounting surface of the hub with a wire brush to remove rust.
- Lift the new wheel onto the studs, being careful not to damage the threads.
- Hand-tighten all six lug nuts until the wheel is snug against the hub.
- Lower the truck back to the ground and perform the final torque sequence.
When you tighten the nuts, you must use a “star pattern” or “cross pattern.” This ensures the wheel seats perfectly flat against the hub. For a 6-lug truck, move in a crisscross fashion, skipping a lug nut each time until all are tight.
Why the 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern Matters for Off-Roading
If you are an off-road enthusiast, the 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern is the foundation of your build. Choosing wheels for the trail involves more than just aesthetics. You have to consider how the wheel’s offset and backspacing interact with your suspension.
Offset refers to how far the mounting surface is from the centerline of the wheel. A “negative offset” pushes the wheels outward, giving you a wider stance. This is great for stability on uneven terrain, but it puts more stress on your wheel bearings and ball joints.
When you move to a larger tire, such as a 33-inch or 35-inch All-Terrain, you might experience rubbing. This usually happens on the “crash bars” or the inner fender liner. Knowing your bolt pattern and offset helps you choose a wheel that clears these components.
I always suggest checking the clearance of your brake calipers when choosing aftermarket 17-inch or 18-inch wheels. Some wheels have thick spokes that can interfere with the F-150’s large front calipers. Always do a “test fit” on the front hub before mounting tires.
Steel vs. Alloy Wheels for the Trail
Steel wheels are incredibly durable and can be hammered back into shape if they get dented on a rock. However, they are much heavier than aluminum alloys. This extra “unsprung weight” can make your suspension feel sluggish and decrease your fuel economy.
Alloy wheels are the standard for most 2017 F-150s. They are lightweight and dissipate heat from the brakes more effectively. If you choose alloys for off-roading, look for “flow-formed” or forged options, as they offer superior strength compared to cheap cast wheels.
Maintaining Your Hubs and Studs
The 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern is only as strong as the studs it sits on. Over time, road salt, mud, and moisture can cause corrosion. If you live in the “Rust Belt,” you should inspect your wheel studs every time you rotate your tires.
If you see signs of “necking” (where the stud looks thinner in one spot) or heavy rust, replace the stud immediately. A snapped stud puts extra load on the remaining five, which can lead to a catastrophic wheel loss. Replacing a stud usually requires removing the brake rotor and tapping the old stud out with a hammer.
I often see people put grease or oil on their wheel studs. Do not do this. Torque specifications are calculated for “dry” threads. Lubricating the threads can lead to over-torquing, which stretches the metal and weakens the stud.
Keep the mating surface between the wheel and the hub clean. A thin layer of aluminum-based anti-seize on the center bore lip is okay. This prevents the wheel from “bonding” to the hub, making it much easier to remove the next time you have a flat tire.
Common Challenges When Upgrading F-150 Wheels
One of the biggest hurdles is the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Your 2017 F-150 uses sensors inside the wheels to monitor air pressure. When you buy new wheels, you must either move your old sensors or buy new ones and “train” them to the truck.
Another challenge is the “poking” look. If your offset is too aggressive, the tires will stick out past the fenders. While some like this look, it flings rocks and mud down the side of your truck. In some states, it is even illegal unless you install fender flares to cover the tread.
Finally, consider the weight of your new setup. If you go from a stock 18-inch wheel to a heavy 20-inch wheel with 35-inch mud tires, your braking distances will increase. You might also notice your transmission shifting more frequently as it struggles with the increased rotational mass.
- TPMS sensor compatibility and syncing.
- Fender clearance and “rubbing” at full lock.
- Increased wear on suspension components.
- Speedometer inaccuracies due to larger tire diameters.
If your speedometer is off by more than 3-5%, I recommend using a flash programmer to update the tire size in the truck’s computer. This ensures your shift points remain correct and your odometer stays accurate over the life of the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern
What is the torque spec for a 2017 Ford F-150?
The official torque specification for the 2017 Ford F-150 is 150 lb-ft (204 Nm). Always use a calibrated torque wrench and tighten in a star pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly and safely.
Can I use Raptor wheels on my standard 2017 F-150?
Yes, Ford Raptor wheels use the same 6x135mm bolt pattern. They are a popular upgrade because they are often forged and have a great off-road look. Just be aware that Raptor wheels usually have a different offset that may push the tire out further.
Will 6×135 wheels from an older F-150 fit?
Generally, yes. Any F-150 from 2004 to the present uses the 6×135 pattern. However, you must check the thread pitch of the lug nuts. Older trucks used M14 x 2.0 threads, while the 2017 uses M14 x 1.5. You must use the lug nuts that match your 2017 studs.
How do I know if my wheels are hub-centric?
A hub-centric wheel will have a center hole that fits snugly over the raised lip on your truck’s hub. If there is a visible gap between the hub lip and the wheel’s center hole, the wheel is likely lug-centric, and you should use hub-centric rings for a better fit.
Final Thoughts on Your F-150 Wheel Setup
Mastering the 2017 ford f150 bolt pattern is about more than just numbers; it is about the safety and performance of your truck. Whether you are hauling a trailer or hitting a muddy trail, your wheels are the only thing connecting you to the road. Taking the time to measure twice and torque once pays off in the long run.
Always remember to re-torque your lug nuts after driving the first 50 to 100 miles on a new set of wheels. Metal expands and contracts with heat, and components can “settle” into place. A quick check with your torque wrench provides peace of mind for your next journey.
If you ever feel unsure about a fitment or notice a strange wobble, do not hesitate to visit a professional tire shop. They have the specialized balancing equipment to diagnose issues that a DIYer might miss. Stay safe, keep your truck maintained, and enjoy the ride!
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