Do I Need Extended Wheel Studs?
 

During my last track day, a fellow twin driver (he was on GR86 and I have a BRZ) mentioned that I really needed to install extended wheel studs. I didn't think that was correct, but wanted to check with the community in case I'm mistaken. Details below. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks.

Winter Configuration

• Wheels: Stock
• Spacers: KSP
• Thoughts: Since the KSP spacers have their own studs built in, I don't need to extend the studs built into the rotor. In fact, if the studs built in to the rotor were extended, I don't think I'd be able to mount the KSP spacers at all?

Summer Configuration

• Wheels: Aodhan AH09
• Spacers: None
• Thoughts: Since these wheels mount directly to the rotor without any spacers I should be fine with the regular studs?

Extended studs aren't needed for either of those situations. The only thought I'd have is that the stock studs aren't known for being great, so a higher quality stud wouldn't be a terrible idea if you're swapping wheels a lot.

You only need extended studs if you run slip-on spacers

While extended studs might not be needed, I have found longer lug nuts do wonders for making the wheels easier to swap.

I swap my wheels pretty frequently and went with some aftermarket spline-driven nuts. They are longer and much easier to use than the short, stubby OEM ones. I went with some with closed ends for peace of mind.

as others have said, longer studs aren't necessary, but if you plan to track the car and frequently swap/ rotate wheels, then stronger studs would be a great idea. The ARP studs for these cars are also longer, but that's not the main intent.

I know lots of people have had issues with the OE studs, so it wouldn't hurt. but it's not something I would prioritize over seat time or good brake pads, fluid, etc if you're playing within a limited budget. but it is a top-10 on the good practices..

.... FWIW, I've used ARP studs on all my race cars and have swapped wheels hundreds of times with air tools/electric impacts every time. I have damaged ONE ARP stud in that time because I cross-threaded a lugnut going on one time. otherwise, >20 yrs of HPDE and racing and I've never had a failed wheel stud. it's an investment you only need to make once.