If a rear wheel stud is damaged, what should be verified about the replacement stud?

When replacing a damaged rear wheel stud, it's crucial to ensure that the thread pitch and diameter match the original. This is because the thread pitch determines how tightly the stud can be fastened to the wheel and hub assembly, while the diameter ensures that the stud fits properly into the hub. If these specifications are not adhered to, it can lead to improper wheel mounting, which might result in looseness, failure during operation, or even dangerous driving conditions.

Using a stud with an incorrect thread pitch could cause issues with wheel lug nut fitment, potentially leading to stripped threads or insufficient clamping force. Similarly, if the diameter does not match, the stud may not seat correctly in the hub, which can also compromise the wheel's stability. Thus, maintaining the original specifications of both the thread pitch and diameter is essential for safe and effective wheel installation.