Gt-5 Wheels Polished, 5.5 Wide, 5 on 205mm

OVERVIEW

Elevate your classic air-cooled ride with the timeless aesthetic and superior craftsmanship of the GT-5 Polished Wheels. These wheels are meticulously designed specifically for the iconic ''Wide 5'' (5 on 205mm) bolt pattern, making them the ultimate performance and style upgrade for early Volkswagen enthusiasts looking to blend vintage racing heritage with modern manufacturing precision. The GT-5 design pays homage to the legendary custom wheels of the 1960s and 70s, offering a deep-dish look that instantly transforms the stance of your Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or early Bus. With a 5.5-inch width, these wheels provide a slightly wider footprint than stock factory steelies, allowing for improved lateral stability and a more aggressive profile without sacrificing the period-correct charm that defines the air-cooled scene. At Appletree Auto, we know that the right set of rollers can make or break a build, and these GT-5 wheels deliver the perfect balance of "Cal-Look" nostalgia and show-quality brilliance.

Crafted from high-grade aluminum with a high-luster polished finish, these wheels offer a mirror-like shine that demands attention at every car show and Sunday cruise. Unlike heavy stock steel wheels, the lightweight aluminum construction reduces unsprung weight, which can lead to better suspension response, improved braking efficiency, and an overall more nimble driving experience. This comprehensive set of four wheels comes ready to install with included matching center caps and valve stems, ensuring a cohesive, professional look across your entire vehicle. Whether you are building a show-stopping street machine, a rugged Manx-style dune buggy, or a lowered early Transporter, these GT-5 wheels provide the structural integrity and stunning visual appeal that Appletree Auto customers have relied on for decades. Don''t settle for ordinary when you can bolt on a legend that is engineered to last as long as your VW does.

FITMENT

These wheels feature the 5 on 205mm "Wide 5" bolt pattern, which was standard on early Volkswagens. Please verify your drum or disc brake conversion pattern before ordering.

• VW Beetle / Bug: 1954 through 1966 (Standard Models)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1965
• VW Bus / Type 2: 1955 through 1970
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961 through 1965
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974 (Fits standard 5x205 hubs)
• Dune Buggies & Sand Rails: Any chassis utilizing 5 on 205mm drums or disc brake rotors.
• 356 Speedster Replicas: Most kit cars utilizing the early VW swing-axle or IRS pans with Wide 5 patterns.

SPECS

• Quantity: Complete Set of 4 Wheels
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Backspacing: 4 Inches
• Material: Lightweight Cast Aluminum
• Finish: High-Luster Polished Face and Lip
• Lug Seat: 60-Degree Taper (Requires 12mm Tapered Lugs)
• Center Cap: Included (Part Number 00-9709-0)
• Valve Stems: Included
• Recommended Lug Bolt: 00-9537-0 (Sold Separately)
• Recommended Lug Nut: 00-9516-0 (Sold Separately)

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

Tip 1: Never Use Stock Lug Bolts

One of the most common mistakes we see in the shop is trying to reuse factory VW lug bolts with aftermarket aluminum wheels. Factory VW wheels typically use a "radius" or "ball" seat, whereas these GT-5 wheels require a 60-degree "taper" (or cone) seat lug. Using the wrong lug seat will prevent the wheel from centering properly and can lead to the lugs backing out or damaging the wheel mounting holes. Always ensure you are using the correct 12mm x 1.5 tapered lugs to guarantee a safe and secure fitment. We highly recommend hand-torquing your lugs to 80 lb-ft and re-checking them after your first 50 miles of driving.

Tip 2: Mind Your Fender Clearance and Tire Sizing

While the 5.5-inch width is a popular "plus-size" upgrade, it is important to consider your tire choice and ride height. With a 4-inch backspacing, these wheels sit slightly further out than stock. If you have a significantly lowered Beetle or a Bus with a narrowed beam, you should carefully measure your fender lip clearance. A popular tire combination for a "staggered" look on Beetles is a 1