Hey everyone happy new years.
let me start off by letting everyone know this is my first time removing wheels off this 4runner, and first time removing wheels off a 4wd vehicle. not my first time removing wheels. im not sure if that is relevant to my question but better safe than sorry.
I'm removing my wheels to paint them myself. i started on my front drivers side wheel, and i removed all 6 lug nuts (in proper order). when i tried to remove the wheel, it wouldn't budge. so i took a closer look and to me it looks like this inner 6-lug spacer (not sure if thats what it is) is keeping the wheel on.

Can anyone tell me what it is, and if i need to remove it to take the wheel off? if so, what the proper torque spec is for the smaller 6 lugs for future reference?
thanks in adavance

 

That drive flange isn't overlapping the wheel in any way, the wheel fits around it. As long as it's securely on jack stands, I'd just try hitting the tire with a rubber mallet or just put the good ol' foot to it.

 

Awesome, thanks. i figured as much but needed to know for sure.

 

It also does not hurt to spray the penetrating oil of your choice on these to help get them loose.

Never Seize is your friend.

There is a way to remove the lugs wow new to me!!