I have an interesting question, that I haven't found the answer to here yet. (and I've search extensively) The answers I've found come close, but don't address my question directly.

I need to replace the front bearings on my 2000 F150 and I see that depending on exactly what month it was manufactured, the stud size might be 12mm or 14mm ... well, I know what month it was built, and from what I can tell it's supposed to have 12mm studs.

I guess my question is, could I swap the bearings that are currently on the truck (assuming my info is correct) that have 12 mm studs with bearings that have 14mm studs?

From all that I've read, it shouldn't affect the mounting of the wheels, but I don't want to miss something important ... and I don't know what I don't know in this instance.

Of course, I'd have to get a new set up lug nuts that fit, but ah well - such is life.

 

As long as you change the rotor I see no reason why it would not work. Never heard of anyone changing to the larger size.

 

If you're unsure of which ones to order and you know you have 12mm studs, just tell the parts guy you have a 99 instead.....

 

I'm not sure I've been clear. I've read a bunch of posts here and elsewhere that seem to indicate that there really isn't any difference (other than diameter). To the point that the brake rotors with 14mm holes work on the 12mm studs because the studs have a "shoulder" on them that the rotors seat on.

As for simply ordering the 12mm ones? That's not the point. The idea was to order the 14mm ones if it possible - no matter which ones I have on the truck right now.

Guess I'm going to have to bite the bullet and take one of the wheels off sometime this week and see what's up. I replaced the rotors a couple years ago, but darned if I can recall what size I had.

Thanks for the tips, guys!

 

The month that they switched was 11/99 -12/99. I honestly dont know why you would want to upgrade. Not like you are ever going to break the 12mm studs anyway

 

Depending on your rims (if you're still running stock) you can take the centre cap off and the rim will have stamped/printed on it what size studs its designed for.