Gt-5 Wheels Black with Polished Lip, 5.5 Wide, 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

Elevate the aesthetic of your vintage Volkswagen with the iconic styling of the GT-5 Wheel set. These wheels represent the perfect marriage of classic California Look heritage and modern manufacturing precision. Featuring a deep gloss black center paired with a brilliant, high-luster polished lip, the GT-5 design offers a striking visual contrast that complements any paint scheme, from original factory hues to custom show-quality finishes. Designed specifically for the classic 5 on 205mm bolt pattern, these wheels allow owners of early-model air-cooled vehicles to achieve a wider, more aggressive stance without the need for cumbersome adapters or specialized hub conversions. Whether you are building a period-correct Resto-Cal Beetle or a rugged woods buggy, these wheels provide the structural integrity and timeless appeal that Appletree Automotive customers have come to expect.

Beyond their stunning appearance, these GT-5 wheels are engineered for improved handling and tire versatility. The 5.5-inch width is a significant upgrade over standard factory steel rims, allowing for a broader footprint and a wider selection of modern radial tires. This extra width helps to fill out the fender wells more effectively, providing that coveted tucked look when paired with a narrowed beam or the perfect flush fitment on a stock-width front end. Each wheel in this set of four comes complete with a sleek center cap and high-quality valve stems, ensuring you have the essential components ready for mounting. When you choose the GT-5, you aren''t just buying a wheel; you are investing in a legacy of performance and style that has defined the air-cooled community for decades.

FITMENT

These wheels feature the traditional Wide-5 (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern. Please verify your drum or disc brake configuration before ordering. This set is designed for:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946 through 1967 (Standard models).
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1970 (Split Window and early Bay Window).
• Volkswagen Type 14 Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1966.
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974 (Fits stock 5-lug hubs).
• Custom Vehicles: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx clones utilizing early VW 5-lug torsion bar or link-pin front ends and rear swingaxle or IRS setups with 5x205mm drums.

SPECS

• Wheel Quantity: Set of 4 Wheels.
• Diameter: 15 Inches.
• Width: 5.5 Inches.
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide-5).
• Backspacing: 4 Inches.
• Offset: Approximately +15mm.
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires specialized lug nuts/bolts).
• Finish: Gloss Black Spokes/Center with Machined Polished Lip.
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9709-0).
• Valve Stems: Included.
• Material: High-Strength Cast Aluminum Alloy.
• Recommended Lug Hardware: 12mm x 1.5 60-degree taper (Part numbers 00-9537-0 & 00-9516-0).

PRO TIPS

1. Always Use the Correct Lug Hardware

One of the most common mistakes when upgrading from factory steel wheels to aluminum GT-5 wheels is attempting to reuse the original VW lug bolts. Factory wheels typically use a ball-seat radius, whereas these GT-5 wheels are engineered with a 60-degree taper (cone seat). Using the wrong seat profile will prevent the wheel from centering correctly on the drum and can lead to the lugs loosening or even damaging the wheel mounting surface. Always ensure you are using 60-degree taper 12mm lugs and torque them to the manufacturer''s specifications in a star pattern to ensure even clamping force.

2. Measure Your Fender Clearance

The GT-5 wheel features a 5.5-inch width and a 4-inch backspacing, which pushes the wheel slightly further out toward the fender compared to a stock 4-inch rim. If your Volkswagen is significantly lowered with a dropped front beam or dropped spindles, it is vital to check for tire-to-fender interference. Many builders opt for a slightly narrower tire profile on the front (such as a 145 or 135 series) to provide extra clearance during sharp turns. If you are running stock height, these wheels will fit perfectly with standard tire sizes like 165R15 or 185/65R15.

3. Maintenance of the Polished Lip

To keep your GT-5 wheels looking show-ready, you must be careful with the cleaning agents you use. The polished aluminum lip is sensitive to acidic or highly alkaline wheel cleaners, which can cause clouding or "white rust" on the finish. We recommend using only pH-balanced soap and water for regular cleaning. Periodically applying a high-quality aluminum polish or a synthetic sealant to the lip will help protect it from road salts, brake dust, and environmental oxidation, ensuring the mirror-like shine lasts for years to come.