Rims vs. Wheels
Today the terms "wheel" and "rim" are used interchangeably.
But years ago, the "wheel" consisted of two parts; the rim and the center (or spider). That's because they were separate pieces- the center could unbolt from the rim.
In the picture, notice the bolts around the perimeter of the rim- to change a tire, you would unbolt the rim, leaving the center mounted to the hub (In many instances, the front and rear had different center sections, which would have required carrying two different complete wheels). That's why when you see a spare on an antique vehicle, it is just the rim and tire, no center.
Semis and HD trucks, and some Ag and construction equipment may still use separate rims and centers.
So, the "rim" and the "center" (spider) are the two components that comprise a "wheel".
Today the terms "wheel" and "rim" are used interchangeably.
But years ago, the "wheel" consisted of two parts; the rim and the center (or spider). That's because they were separate pieces- the center could unbolt from the rim.
In the picture, notice the bolts around the perimeter of the rim- to change a tire, you would unbolt the rim, leaving the center mounted to the hub (In many instances, the front and rear had different center sections, which would have required carrying two different complete wheels). That's why when you see a spare on an antique vehicle, it is just the rim and tire, no center.
Semis and HD trucks, and some Ag and construction equipment may still use separate rims and centers.
So, the "rim" and the "center" (spider) are the two components that comprise a "wheel".
