Why clip-on wheel weight profiles matter

The clip is the part of the wheel weight that grips the wheel flange. Different wheels have different flange shapes and thicknesses, especially when comparing alloy wheels versus steel wheels and passenger vehicles versus trucks. Using the wrong clip type can lead to poor retention, wheel damage, or a comeback when the weight shifts or comes off.

• Retention: The correct clip profile grips the flange properly and stays locked in place.
• Fit: Alloy and steel wheels often require different clip shapes.
• Protection: The wrong profile can gouge, scratch, or deform the wheel flange.

Quick overview of common clip-on weight types

Below are common guidelines for matching clip-on wheel weight profiles to wheel types. Always confirm fitment when possible using manufacturer charts or wheel identification.

MC type: domestic alloy wheels

MC is commonly used on domestic alloy wheels. If you are working on many passenger vehicles with domestic-style alloy rims, MC is often the profile you will encounter.

Typical weight range: 0.25 oz to 2.0 oz

P type: steel wheels

P is commonly used for steel wheels, especially on many passenger vehicles running standard steel rims. If the vehicle has steel wheels, P type is often the starting point.

Typical weight range: 0.25 oz to 2.0 oz

FN type: Japanese alloy wheels

FN is commonly associated with Japanese alloy wheels. FN weights are also frequently specified in gram increments rather than ounces, so shops that stock FN usually carry a gram-based assortment.

Common FN increments: 5g, 10g, 15g, 20g, 25g, 30g, 40g, 45g, 50g

T type: truck steel wheels (tighter P-style clip)

T is often described as a tighter version of P designed for truck steel wheels. If you are balancing heavier-duty wheels with thicker steel flanges, T type is a common match.

Typical weight range: 0.25 oz to 3.0 oz

IAW type: European and some Asian alloy wheels

IAW is commonly used for European alloy wheels and also fits some Asian vehicle alloy wheels. If you service a lot of European vehicles, IAW is an important profile to keep in stock.

Typical weight range: 0.25 oz to 2.0 oz

How to choose the right clip type for a wheel

1. Identify the wheel material: Start by confirming whether the wheel is alloy or steel. This usually narrows your options quickly.
2. Consider vehicle origin and wheel style: Domestic alloy wheels often point toward MC, Japanese alloys often point toward FN, and many European alloys point toward IAW.
3. Confirm passenger versus truck application: If the wheel is a heavier-duty steel wheel, T type is often the better match versus standard P.
4. Do not force-fit: If the clip does not seat cleanly, stop and verify fitment. Forcing the wrong clip profile can damage the wheel and still fail retention.
5. Use fitment charts when possible: Manufacturer charts and wheel identification references are the best final confirmation when you have them available.

Notes on weight units and assortments

Many clip-on assortments are organized by ounces, but FN is commonly stocked in grams. When building your shop’s inventory, make sure you carry the unit system that matches what you service most often.

• Ounce-based ranges: MC, P, IAW typically run 0.25 oz to 2.0 oz. T commonly runs 0.25 oz to 3.0 oz.
• Gram-based ranges: FN commonly includes 5g through 50g in specific increments.

The safest approach is to treat these profiles as guidelines, then confirm with a fitment chart when possible. Choosing the correct clip-on wheel weight type improves retention, protects the wheel, and saves time by reducing rework and comebacks.