just bought an 02 dakota quad cab 4x4, i want to get new wheels for it but all the used wheels on craigslist etc are different lug patterns, my question is what is the best way to go as far as buying wheel adapters so the rims will fit? i also need to know how to do it without having my wheels/tires sticking out past stock fender flares if that's even possible with adapters, any help, ? thanks

 

You would have to get the right offset (not stock) to compensate for an adapter. I would just get the right wheels/bolt pattern. There are a lot out there, and are still being made...

 

What offset should I be looking for if I get 1.25 inch adapters? I can't afford $1200+ for rim and tire package. I can find sets for $400-$500 local. Any other suggestions? Couple sets I'm looking at are 6x5, 6x5.5, and 6x135

 

What offset should wheels be in order to use wheel adapters that are 1.25" thick and not make the wheels stick out past stock fender flares??? Please help

 

I would try to find one that are the same lug pattern it's just my opinion I don't trust in adapters

 

So, I dont want to sound wrong, but offset/backspacing are two confused terms. I am often confusing them, or swapping them.

Either way, I would just say do it right. That would be getting the right part, i.e. same lug pattern. New wheels are a WANT. If you really want them, save your money, and get what you want, and the right item. That is my 2cents.

Now, I'm not saying spacers/adapters dont/wont work, just that I would only use them in a do-or-die situation/mock up. I'm sure some states that require inspection might not pass them either, I am unaware of NY.

So after that rambling, in order to compensate your spacer, you would need to add, or subtract, that thickness from your centerline of your wheel. Think regular rim (semi-dished) vs say, a Porsche rim(almost flat faced) or the front wheels of a dually truck. Check out tirerack.com, they have pretty good info sheets, or google it. At any rate, you sound fairly green (not a jab or insult, just observation-everyone has to start somewhere), so maybe find a speed shop that can help you out with getting set up too, and give an experienced opinion.