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Guide - Clip-On Weights

An affordable and reliable solution, they play a critical role in reducing vibration, improving fuel efficiency, and extending tire life, making them a go-to choice for mechanics and vehicle owners alike.

Brands - Only the Best!

Wheel Weight Warehouse carries the top brands like Plombco, Plasteel, Perfect Equipment. With a wide range of option from Steel, Zinc and Plactic+Steel options finding the right weight should be a breeze.

Styles - Clip-On Weights - Passenger Vehicles

P - (Black) (oz): Used on passenger vehicles, full size pickups and vans with steel wheels

MC - (Yellow) (oz): Used on most North American vehicles with alloy wheels

AW - (Red) (oz): Used on most domestic vehicles prior to 1995 with alloy wheels

FN (Orange) (g): Used on most Japanese vehicles with alloy wheels

IAW - (Blue) (g): Used on some European and some Asian vehicles with alloy wheels

T (Gray) (oz): Used on some light trucks and SUV's with alloy or steel wheels

EN (Green) (g): Used on Mercedes, Audi and Volkswagen, aftermarket alloy wheels with thin rim flanges

LH (Purple) (oz): Used on older Chrysler vehicles with alloy wheels

Styles - Clip-On Weights - Trucks

LT1 - (Green) (oz): Used on heavy trucks with steel rims, straight rim flanges

TAL - (Green) (oz): Used on heavy trucks with steel wheels

I7 - (Green) (oz): Used on 3/4 and 1-ton light trucks with steel wheels

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Benefits - Clip-On Weights

1. Proven Reliability: As a time-tested method, clip-on weights provide consistent and effective balancing, reducing tire vibration and ensuring a smooth ride. Their widespread use in the automotive industry speaks to their dependability.

2. Ease of Installation: Attaching clip-on weights is quick and straightforward—mechanics simply hammer or crimp them onto the wheel’s flange using a wheel weight tool. This simplicity makes them a go-to choice in busy shops or for DIYers with basic equipment.

3. Wide Compatibility: Designed to fit both steel and alloy rims with a flange, clip-on weights are versatile across a broad range of vehicle types, from budget passenger cars to heavy-duty trucks, making them a universal balancing option.

4. Cost-Effectiveness: Clip-on weights are generally inexpensive compared to alternatives like adhesive weights or balancing beads. Their affordability appeals to fleet operators and individual owners looking to minimize maintenance costs.

5. Adjustability: If a wheel’s balance shifts due to wear or damage, clip-on weights can be easily removed, repositioned, or replaced without specialized preparation, offering flexibility during tire service.

6. Immediate Availability: Available in various sizes (measured in ounces or grams) and materials (lead, steel, or zinc), clip-on weights are stocked at most auto shops, ensuring quick access for repairs or tire rotations.

7. Improved Vehicle Performance: Properly balanced wheels with clip-on weights minimize vibration, leading to better fuel efficiency, smoother handling, and less strain on suspension and steering components.

8. Durability: When securely attached, clip-on weights—especially modern steel or zinc versions—resist corrosion and withstand road conditions, maintaining balance throughout the tire’s life in most cases.

9. No Surface Preparation Needed: Unlike adhesive weights, clip-on weights don’t require cleaning or degreasing the wheel surface, saving time during installation and making them practical for high-volume tire shops.

These benefits make clip-on wheel weights a reliable, economical choice for balancing tires, particularly on vehicles with traditional steel rims or where cost and simplicity are priorities. While they may not suit every modern alloy wheel design, their practicality and performance keep them relevant in automotive maintenance

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Installation - Clip-On Weights

1. Mount and Analyze the Imbalance: Begin by securing the tire and wheel assembly onto a tire balancing machine to detect imbalance data on the exact location and amount of weight needed (typically in ounces or grams).

2. Select the Appropriate Weight: Choose a clip-on wheel weight that matches the balancer’s recommended size. These weights, often made of lead, steel, or zinc, come in incremental sizes (e.g., 0.25 oz, 0.5 oz, 1 oz). Ensure the weight’s clip design fits the rim type—standard for steel wheels or coated/low-profile for alloy wheels to prevent scratching.

3. Prepare the Rim: Inspect the flange (the lip of the rim) where the weight will attach. While no extensive cleaning is required, remove any loose debris or old weights from the area with a wire brush or pliers to ensure a secure fit.

4. Position the Weight: Align the selected clip-on weight with the marked spot on the rim’s flange as indicated by the balancer. Hold the weight in place with the clip facing the flange edge, ready to grip it.

5.Attach the Weight: Using a wheel weight hammer or pliers (specifically designed for this task), tap or crimp the weight onto the flange. Start at one end of the clip and work toward the other, applying firm, even pressure to secure it tightly. For alloy wheels, take extra care to avoid damaging the finish—use a rubber-coated tool if available.

6. Verify Security: Check that the weight is firmly attached by gently tugging it. It should not wobble or slide. If it feels loose, remove it with pliers and reattach it, ensuring a snug fit to prevent it from dislodging during driving.

7. Re-Test the Balance: Place the wheel back on the balancing machine and spin it again to confirm the imbalance is corrected. The machine should show minimal or no residual imbalance. If further adjustment is needed, add or reposition weights as indicated.

8. Repeat if Necessary: For dual-plane balancing (common on wider truck tires), repeat the process on the opposite flange (inner or outer) if the balancer specifies additional weight placement.

9. Final Inspection: Once balanced, remove the wheel from the machine and visually inspect the weights to ensure they’re secure and properly aligned. The wheel is now ready to be mounted back onto the vehicle.

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Tips - Clip-On Weights

  • Use the correct clip style (e.g., “P” for standard steel rims, “AW” for alloy wheels) to match your wheel type.
  • Avoid over-hammering, which can deform the clip or damage the rim.
  • For trucks with heavy tires, ensure weights are robust enough to handle higher speeds and loads.
  • This process is efficient and effective, making clip-on weights a practical choice for tire shops and vehicle owners aiming to maintain optimal wheel balance.