I will be buying new wheels in a couple of months ... 17" aftermarket wheels, and a few places have told me that not all 17 inch wheels with the right bolt pattern, width and offset will be OK on the LS because of the weight of the LS. Is this true or just more salesman B.S. ?

The wheels I am looking at buying are cast, and don't have anything stamped on them indicating their weight capacity. Is a wheel's load capacity really something to be concerned about.

( I'd gladly buy used OEM 17s if I could find some locally, but I cant seem to find any )

 

All you need to know is 5x114.3 bolt pattern, at least 8.5" wide, preferably +35 or lower offset, and clearance for BBK. Tire selection and load rating are something to consider when outfitting a heavy sedan, not wheels.

 

Most wheels you find will in fact not fit, even if you have the right size, bolt pattern and offset. The weight thing is nonsense. The problem is most dont clear the BBKs and even the wheel manufacturers arent aware of the fact despite their swearing to the contrary. Its either trial or error (my 4th ordered set finally fit) or a lot of asking here if so and so has XYZ rims on their car and if so, what issues did they encounter.

I have tried to start a sticky about this before but it was struck down. I still think its something we need badly for this car.

 

Thanks. I suspected the wheel load rating was BS.

I don't want to get wheels that 8.5" wide because I fear and expect it will increase my LS's stubborn epic tendency to wandering on the highway. I am going with a 225/55/17 tire - probably on a 7" wide wheel ......

Very true ... I am buying new wheels because I test fitted 3 sets that didn't fit because of the BBKs. The shop knew to test fit the new wheels before the tires are mounted.

OK, a second voice saying a wheel's load rating is nonsence.

Thanks

 

Stupid question, what is BBK's?

 

Not a stupid question at all. BBK stands for Big Brake Kit. The LS430 is notorious for having some serious braking hardware up front and most wheels can not clear the calipers.

 

Thanks.

Please read my post "wheel help needed"