How to Identify Truck Wheel Standards: EU vs US vs Mitsubishi (Visual Guide)

When sourcing or replacing truck wheels, one of the most common challenges is identifying the correct wheel standard. In the global market, three major types are widely used:

· European standard: 10-26-335-281

· American standard: 10-26-285.75-220

· Japanese (Mitsubishi) standard: 8-32-285-222

At first glance, some of these specifications look very similar—especially EU and US types—leading to frequent confusion. This guide provides a quick visual identification method, but note:
�� Final confirmation must always be done by precise measurement.

What Do These Numbers Mean?

Truck wheel specifications are closely related to bolt pattern (PCD) and mounting dimensions.

A bolt pattern typically includes:

· Number of bolt holes

· Pitch Circle Diameter (PCD)

For example, a pattern like “10×335” means 10 holes on a 335 mm circle .
This principle applies to heavy-duty truck wheels as well.

1. Mitsubishi Standard (Easy to Identify)

Example: 8-32-285-222

This type is the easiest to distinguish because:

· It has 8 bolt holes, while EU and US usually have 10

· Larger bolt spacing appearance

· Common in Japanese trucks (e.g., Mitsubishi platforms)

�� Quick tip:
If you see 8 holes instead of 10, it is almost certainly Mitsubishi standard.

2. European Standard (10-26-335-281)

European wheels are widely used in brands like Mercedes-Benz, MAN, and Volvo trucks.

Visual characteristics:

· 10 bolt holes 

· Larger PCD (~335 mm) → bolts look more spread out

· Bigger center bore (~281 mm)

�� Identification tip:
Compared to US wheels, EU wheels usually look more “open” and wider spaced.

3. American Standard (10-26-285.75-220)

Common in North American trucks such as Freightliner, Kenworth, and Peterbilt.

Visual characteristics:

· 10 bolt holes (same as EU) 

· Smaller PCD (~285.75 mm) → holes appear closer together

· Smaller center bore (~220 mm)

�� Identification tip:
Compared to EU wheels, US wheels look more compact and dense in bolt layout.

EU vs US: Why They Are Often Confused

Both standards share:

· Same number of bolt holes (10)

· Similar overall structure

· Close visual proportions

However, the PCD (bolt circle diameter) is different, which directly affects fitment. Even small differences in PCD mean the wheel will not mount properly .

�� This is why misidentification happens frequently in trading, warehousing, and installation.

Quick Visual Comparison

Important Reminder

⚠️ Visual identification is only a preliminary method.

Although experienced professionals can distinguish wheel types by eye, accurate measurement is always required before installation or shipment.

Bolt pattern mismatch will result in:

· Installation failure

· Safety risks

· Potential equipment damage

Pro Tips for Buyers and Importers

· Always request technical drawings or specs 

· Measure PCD and center bore precisely 

· Avoid relying only on photos

· Double-check before bulk purchasing

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between EU, US, and Mitsubishi truck wheel standards can save time, cost, and avoid serious mistakes.

· Mitsubishi: easiest (8 holes)

· EU: larger spacing

· US: tighter spacing

�� But remember:
When in doubt, measure. Never rely solely on visual judgment.