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  2. Can't Lose on 42's, or Can You?

Can't Lose on 42's, or Can You?

Apr 16, 2024

In this episode, we discuss the pros and cons of 42's, the new 40's.  We dive into some of issues in running these big tires, how they differ from 40's and just what it takes to safely run them on your Jeep.  Tune in to hear a fresh new episode of The Jeepcast. Look for bonus content at patreon.com/thejeepcast. 

  • Its been awhile since we've talked about tire sizes and build requirements.
    • Episode 530 Feb 2024 does and overall tire discussion.
  • Why 42's
    • Well they are the new 40's
      • It used to be pretty much Super Swamper and Mickey Thompson offered sizes > than 40's in extreme tires
        • And Pit Bull Rocker as well in 42 BIAS and RADIAL
        • And Maxxis Treps - BIAS
      • Now more conventional MT's are being offered in 42's
        • Mickey Thompson Baja Boss  42.13.50r17 (actual 14.2) RADIAL
        • Milestar Patagonia 42x14.50r17/20 RADIAL
        • Nitto Trail Grappler 42x15.50r20/22/24/26 RADIAL
    • They do give you another 1' of ground clearance and improve the approach/departure and break over angles.
  • What does it take to safely run 42's?
    • Well for Jeeps, it depends on how heavy your rig is.
      • JKU/JLU/JT
        • A 60 front axle
        • A 60 rear axle if you can manage the skinny pedal otherwise a 80 or Corp 14 bolt.
      • YJ/TJ/LJ/JK
        • A 44 front?
        • A 60 rear?
      • 1350 or better drive lines
      • 6" lift or more aggressive fender cutting
    • Wheels
      • 17" have a ton of sidewall
        • Mickey Thompson now offers the Baja Boss M/T in a 42x13.50r17
          • Interesting only offered in 17 for now
        • Milestar Patagonia
      • 20' seem like a much better choice
        • Milestar Patagonia
        • Nitto offers the Trail Grappler in a 42x13.50r20
          • And 42x15.50 on 22, 24 and 26.
      • Maybe sidewall construction matters more
        • Pitbull were too soft on 17
  • Pros and Cons over 40's
    • Pros
      • Better approach/departure and breakovers
      • More ground clearance
      • Geometry advantage on rocks
      • More footprint
    • Cons
      • Tire weight
        • Can be mitigated by larger wheels
      • Nimbleness
      • More stress on axles, easier to break'
        • T broke two 35 spline rear shafts on Pit Bulls

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