Stock Steel vs Stock Aluminum Wheels

[astroturf]

Which are better, and Why?

I have a set of each, Stock Steel and Stock Aluminum Wheels.

2005 Chevrolet Astro Van.
The steelies weigh 29 lbs, the aluminums weigh 19 lbs.
The steelies are 6.5" wide, the aluminums are 7" wide.
All other dimensions are the similar, the only exception might be offset/backspacing.

As I have said, Both are stock for this vehicle.

So which is better in your opinion?

Thanks, Jim

[doyoulikeithere]

Well Jim, Both have their pros and cons.
Perhaps a best for 'x' type of use is more easily answered.

I prefer the steel wheels on my 4wd van. (mine are all the 8 spoke style)
They are skinnier & heavier, probably get less fuel mileage, but when I get stuck in sand or mud, I dont care much about the damaging abrasive effects of the earth against my steel rims.
This makes them my first choice for the 4wd van.

I prefer the wider/lighter Alloy wheels on my 2wd vans. They are lighter so should be better for fuel mileage, and faster, and look nicer too.
This makes them my first choice for the 2wd van.
But, If I get stuck in mud or sand with my 2wd van, the alloy finish could easily be "toasted" by spinning my wheels against the earth.

I prefer to get my 4wd muddy, instead of my 2wd van, but, shlit happens.

[astroturf]

Thanks Mike...

I guess what really matters is, How far back into the woods I wanna take my date???

LOLz, Jim

PS The difference, I have found, is about like training for a marathon in work boots, and running it in sneakers.

[doyoulikeithere]

I guess what really matters is, How far back into the woods I wanna take my date???

I think that as long as you're Plowing doesn't include any mud or sand, you and your date should be fine on the alloys!

[astroturf]

I guess what really matters is, How far back into the woods I wanna take my date???

I think that as long as you're Plowing doesn't include any mud or sand, you and your date should be fine on the alloys!

ROFL

[MountainManJoe]

Use aluminum ones in the city. Less rotating mass and they dissipate heat from braking better.

[astroturf]

Use aluminum ones in the city. Less rotating mass and they dissipate heat from braking better.

Hey, I like where this is going...

City Rims, and Country Rims...

Yee Haw, Jim