Steel vs Aluminum Wheels

[c5er]

Would switching from Aluminum to steel wheels improve CCC?

Typically adding heavier wheels is like adding 4lbs of weight for every 1lb of wheel weight. There is about a 18 lbs difference per wheel going from Steel to Aluminum. Thats 72Lbs for the rear and 26 for the front.

I think it would allow for a better ride as thw wheel/axle could respond faster to road conditions. and it would help is startup due to rolling resistance decrease.

However i am no sure the factors that contribute to the GVWR. Not sure of axle weight rating ins dictate by weight pressing down on the end of the axle tubes or the sheer forces on the axle its self as it tries to spin under load.

[ron_dittmer]

This topic interests me.

I have a 2007 E350 chassis with stock steel wheels in great condition. I also have stainless wheel covers. I will be replacing the tires before our next big trip and figured it's the right time to upgrade to alloy wheels.

After some research, I am most comfortable with the Alcoa brand, so when it's time, I will be buying that brand. Alcoa offers a few different finishes on their wheels. Since our rig is stored indoors most of the time, and we travel during non-winter salt-free conditions all the time, I will be buying the ones with the Dura-Bright finish HERE, currently priced at $1399.00. Their plain finish wheel package costs $200 less.

I have yet to decide what valve stems to buy. I don't want "extensions", just one-piece valves that stick out only as far as needed for access. I would appreciate any tips on "best valves" to consider for the thicker allow wheel material.

I am buying the alloy wheels primarily for "The Look", but also hope to improve the ride through less un-sprung weight.

[Ralph_Cramden]

X

[ronfisherman]

Many aluminum wheeled Class C's have outer wheel Aluminum and Steel for inner wheel.

[BarabooBob]

Ralph Cramden--If you are worried about lightning strikes, do you park under trees or out in the open during storms?
It is hard to tell if you are serious about the lightning strikes.

[Home_Skillet]

Is this for a Class C or a travel trailer?

I installed the Alcoa wheels on my Class C.
Massive improvement in the ride quality!!

[Artum_Snowbird]

But don't forget that once you get those heavy aluminium wheels going around, then if you don't tailgate and don't need your brakes, their weight spinning will carry you so much further down the road than those super light steel ones when you take your foot off the gas. (teehee)

[Ralph_Cramden]

X

[Big_Katuna]

I would say no.

The term is unsprung weight. Very important number in sports and race cars.

But the weight the springs, axle, frame sees doesn’t change.

Tires, yes.

[Lwiddis]

Very small weight savings for expense.

[dockmasterdave]

GVWR and CCC are decided by the manufacturer. You can beef something up if you wish, but it does not change what you are allowed to weigh, or carry according to the law or your ins co.