How do I measure the bolt pattern of my trailer wheel?

Oct 20, 2022 | How To, Measuring

The following guide answers the popular question – How do I measure a bolt pattern of a trailer wheel?

A wheel bolt pattern is determined by the number of bolt holes and the diameter of the circle that they form. You can measure this manually or use a bolt pattern template to make the measuring process even easier.

Step 1: Count 

The first step in correctly measuring your bolt pattern is to count how many bolts or lugs your wheel has. Typically this number will be 4, 5, 6, or 8

Step 2: Measure

Next, you will measure ​​how many inches are between the bolt holes. The process for measuring will differ slightly depending if your tire has an odd or even number of bolts on it.

Measuring axles with an odd number of bolts (5 holes)

Measuring the diameter of a bolt circle with an odd number of lugs isn’t as straightforward since there is no opposite bolt hole.

How do I measure the bolt pattern of my trailer wheel?

The easiest option is to measure from the center of one hole to the farthest edge of either of the adjacent bolt holes.

Secondly, another option is to measure to the opposite imaginary bolt hole center. 

Measuring wheels with an even number of bolts

Measure from the center of one bolt hole to the center of its opposite bolt hole to determine the diameter of the lug pattern. As noted below, the process is the same for 4, 6, or 8 bolt wheels.

How do I measure the bolt pattern of my trailer wheel?

Step 3: Contact BlueSwift Axles for Assistance

If you are needing to replace the axles on your trailer, our online ordering system has a field where you will enter your bolt measurements. If you are still unsure how to measure your bolt pattern after reading this guide, contact the BlueSwift Axles team. For a step-by-step on how to order your replacement axle, read this full article

​​BlueSwift Axles offers 48-hour manufacturing and rush shipping options for certain destinations. For qualifying locations, our Rush Shipping Rate means the order is shipped within 48 hours.