When considering performance enhancements for your vehicle, wheel choice plays a pivotal role. For Dodge Durango owners, particularly those eyeing the Tow and Go package with its Srt Wheels, questions about wheel weight and its impact on performance naturally arise. Do SRT wheels, known for their wider stance and aggressive styling, add unnecessary weight and hinder roll resistance compared to standard R/T wheels? Let’s delve into the specifics of SRT wheels, weight considerations, and how they can be a beneficial upgrade.
It’s a common misconception that larger, wider wheels automatically equate to heavier wheels. While it’s true that tire size and wheel dimensions contribute to overall weight, the construction and materials used in wheel manufacturing are equally crucial. OEM R/T wheels, while robust, often carry a significant weight. SRT wheels, on the other hand, are frequently forged, a process that enhances strength while potentially reducing weight compared to cast wheels of similar size. This means that despite their wider profile – often two inches broader than R/T wheels – SRT wheels aren’t necessarily heavier.
Upgrading to SRT wheels can even lead to a similar or even lighter wheel and tire setup, depending on the specific wheel model and tire choice. The weight of tires also plays a significant role. Opting for performance-oriented tires can influence both weight and roll resistance. Websites like TireRack provide detailed specifications, including weights, for various tire models, allowing for informed comparisons.
One Durango owner’s experience highlights the potential for weight optimization when switching to SRT wheels. Initially considering five-spoke SRT wheels, they opted for Jeep SRT Trackhawk wheels (model 9173) due to their lighter weight. These Y-spoke wheels weigh approximately 29 lbs each, notably lighter than both the five-spoke SRT wheels (33-34 lbs) and the OEM R/T wheels (around 35 lbs).
This owner paired the SRT Trackhawk wheels with Yokohama Parada Spec-X tires in size 295/45/20. While these tires, designed for SUVs and light trucks, are wider and performance-focused, they weigh in at 39 lbs each, compared to the 34 lbs of the original Bridgestone Ecopia tires (size 265/50/20).
However, the crucial point is the total wheel and tire assembly weight. The original R/T setup weighed approximately 69 lbs per wheel and tire (35 lbs wheel + 34 lbs tire). The upgraded SRT wheel and tire combination came in at roughly 68 lbs per wheel and tire (29 lbs wheel + 39 lbs tire). This resulted in a slight weight reduction despite the two-inch increase in wheel width and larger tire size.
This real-world example demonstrates that upgrading to SRT wheels doesn’t automatically mean adding unsprung weight. By carefully selecting lighter SRT wheel models, like the Jeep SRT Trackhawk wheels, and considering tire weights, it’s possible to maintain or even reduce the overall weight of your wheel and tire setup while enjoying the aesthetic and performance benefits of SRT wheels. The forged construction of many SRT wheels contributes to this potential for weight savings and enhanced performance, making them a worthwhile consideration for Durango owners looking to improve both the look and feel of their vehicles.
