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

OVERVIEW

Elevate your vintage Volkswagen''s street presence and performance with our premium GT-5 Wheels in a stunning silver finish with a high-luster polished lip. These wheels are designed specifically for the enthusiast who demands a classic racing aesthetic combined with modern manufacturing precision. The iconic five-spoke design pays homage to the golden era of European sports car styling, providing a timeless look that perfectly complements the curves of an early Beetle, the rugged profile of a split-window Bus, or the sleek lines of a Karmann Ghia. By utilizing the traditional 5 on 205mm bolt pattern, these wheels allow you to maintain your vehicle''s authentic "Wide 5" hub configuration while significantly upgrading the overall stance and handling characteristics of your ride.

Engineering excellence is at the heart of the GT-5 series. With a 5.5-inch width, these wheels offer the ideal "sweet spot" for tire fitment, allowing for a wider contact patch than stock steelies without the clearance headaches often associated with 7-inch or wider rims. The 4-inch backspacing is meticulously calculated to ensure proper fitment within the fender wells of most classic air-cooled applications. Each set comes complete with four wheels, matching center caps, and chrome valve stems, providing a comprehensive solution for a total exterior transformation. Whether you are building a period-correct Resto-Cal cruiser or a weekend canyon carver, these GT-5 wheels deliver the durability, balance, and show-stopping brilliance that Appletree Automotive customers have come to expect for their prized air-cooled investments.

FITMENT

These wheels feature the 5 on 205mm (Wide 5) bolt pattern, making them compatible with the following air-cooled Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1949 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: Models converted to early Wide 5 drum or disc brakes
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Meyers Manx clones utilizing early VW 5-lug torsion bar chassis or transaxle setups.

SPECS

• Part Number: 00-9691-4
• Quantity: Sold as a Set of 4 Wheels
• Diameter: 15 Inches
• Width: 5.5 Inches
• Bolt Pattern: 5 on 205mm (Wide 5)
• Backspacing: 4 Inches
• Lug Seat: 60 Degree Taper (Requires 12mm Tapered Lug Bolts/Nuts)
• Finish: Silver Center with Polished Outer Lip
• Center Cap: Included (Replacement Part # 00-9709-0)
• Valve Stems: Included
• Recommended Lug Hardware: 00-9537-0 (Lug Bolts) or 00-9516-0 (Lug Nuts)

PRO TIPS

1. Selecting the Correct Lug Hardware

One of the most critical steps in installing GT-5 wheels is ensuring you use the correct lug hardware. Original Volkswagen steel wheels typically use a "radius seat" (ball seat) lug bolt, but these alloy GT-5 wheels require a 60-degree "tapered seat" (cone seat) lug. Never attempt to use your stock VW lug bolts with these wheels, as the seating surface will not match, leading to loose wheels and potential damage to the lug holes. We highly recommend using our 12mm tapered lug bolts (part # 00-9537-0) for a secure and safe installation.

2. Checking Fender and Suspension Clearance

While the 5.5-inch width and 4-inch backspacing are designed to fit most stock applications, it is essential to check clearances if your vehicle has been significantly lowered or equipped with a narrowed beam. On 1967 Beetles and early Ghias, tire selection becomes vital; a 165/80R15 or a 185/65R15 tire usually fits well, but always perform a "dry fit" of the wheel on your hub before mounting tires. Ensure there is adequate clearance between the tire sidewall and the fender lip, as well as the inner wheel rim and the tie rod ends or shock towers.

3. Maintaining the Polished Lip Finish

To keep your GT-5 wheels looking like they just came out of the box, regular maintenance is required for the polished aluminum lip. Unlike the painted silver center, the polished lip is often raw aluminum and can oxidize if exposed to road salt, brake dust, or harsh chemicals. We recommend cleaning them with a pH-neutral wheel cleaner and applying a high-quality aluminum metal polish or sealant twice a year. Avoid using automatic car washes that use "acid-based" wheel cleaners, as these can cloud the polished finish instantly and require heavy buffing to restore the shine.