Important Considerations:
* Backspacing: This is the distance between the mounting surface of the wheel and the innermost part of the rim. Incorrect backspacing can cause clearance issues with the suspension, brakes, or body of the van. You must find rims with the correct backspacing for your van. This is crucial and often overlooked.
* Bolt Pattern: The number of lug nuts and their spacing on the wheel. This is usually a 5x114.3mm or 5x4.5" bolt pattern for many Dodge Ram Vans from that period, but double-check yours.
* Wheel Offset: Related to backspacing, but refers to the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. This impacts how far the wheel sits in or out relative to the wheel well.
* Tire Size: Changing rim size usually necessitates changing tire size. Incorrect tire size can affect your speedometer, odometer, handling, and even potentially damage your transmission or drivetrain.
In short: Don't just look at the rim diameter (15" or 16"). You *must* verify the bolt pattern, backspacing, and offset to ensure proper fitment and avoid potential problems. Consult a parts store or a tire shop with your VIN or existing rim information to get the correct specifications for your 1989 Dodge Ram Van.
