Thread: Offset Rims vs Spacers

An idle question for the engineer types?, which could have gone in the modified zone perhaps.

In terms of stress on the various components, what are the implications of spacers (for off road use only of course, being generally illegal except as original equipment on some caravans etc).
I get that spacers would add more strain on wheel studs and nuts, but apart from that, for a given comparable final offset, are there any other added stresses or implications for either of the alternative scenarios?

Not that I can see. Wider than standard tyres, or offsetting standard width tyres out from normal position increases load on wheel bearings, steering (from steering arms to track rods to drag links and tie rod ends, and on suspension components, axle, stub axle etc. But the only bit that would seem to be affected by whether the change is done by wheel offset or spacers is the wheel studs themselves, as suggested.

Larger diameter tyres will also increase load on transmission components and brakes.