New Wheels/Tires, Thule 696 Install

[vt_maverick]

Thanks for the info Bren.

Thanks for the comments on the rims everybody. The picture makes the rims greener than they really are. I still can't figure out where I've seen this color combo (Gold and Maroon), on a 70s Trans Am? All I can think now when I look at it is "Tonka," but I'm not sure why.

Maybe this?

[Riff Raff]

So a bit of a T/J here, but have a question for you and the general audience. I'm debating between Grabber AT2's and BFG All-Terrain KO's. The BFG's are almost 10 lbs. heavier than the Grabbers. This concerns me because I'm already running wider (and therefore heavier) rims. Hate to add a ton of weight and additional strain on the drivetrain / even worse MPGs.

Thoughts?

Bren--- Since you still have your Grabber HTS with reasonable tread left, why don't you use that set as your "Summer set", and use the Grabber AT2 as your "Winter set"??? If you did, then you could have your new AT2's studded for Winter, since they're pre-pinned for studs. Just an idea, now that you have two complete sets.

VT-- Yup, I too am a huge fan of the BFG - A/T (I have a set on my FJ-40), but I deliberately chose the Grabber AT2 in 275/65R18-116S (32" O.D./42.3 lbs) for the VX simply because of the weight factor. The two tires are almost mirror image clones, with the AT2's being much lighter in weight. I don't really know why the BFG's are about 10 lbs heavier, and it could be any number of combined reasons-- i.e., BFG tri-gard belting design, bigger shoulder lugs, rubber density, and closer spaced tread design with less caverns.

Of special note: The BFG A/T tread pattern has a more tightly knit tread pattern of interlocking lugs on the face of the tread, which causes the tread to be quickly filled-up with mud and packed dirt thereby turning the tires into worthless slick rollerskates. In addition; the BFG A/T tread seems to have trouble self-cleaning, and will remain clogged unless you can find a shallow stream to forde across and wash-out the tread pattern. I speak from experience as this happens with the BFG A/T's on my FJ-40.

Conversely, I've found the Grabber AT2 tread pattern to be more "open" (not tight knit) with the interlocking lugs on the face of the tread, and they self-clean immediately expelling all mud & dirt away from the tread pattern face. I am continually amazed at how well the AT2's instantly self clean debris away from its tread face, including stones and pebbles. BTW; try not to follow a vehicle that has AT2's too close, as you might get your windshield cracked and your paint chipped (just ask fellow member "Travelin2" when he followed me in convoy for a damage report).

VT, you didn't say which specific "size" of tire you were considering. If you are considering the popular 285/60R18 size, then I would highly recommend the infamous PRO-COMP - "All Terrain" above all others on the market. It looks very simular to the BFG & AT2 tread pattern design, and the P/C-A/T is Snowflake/Mountain rated, has a 50,000 mile warranty, and only weighs 43 lbs each. I believe fellow members "NocturnalVX", "BoarderCross", and "Stangri" all utilize the P/C-A/T, so you can ask their opinion(s). The P/C-A/T is commonly on sale at www.4WheelParts.com and its franchise outlets with a buy 3, get the 4th free deal.

The VX OEM wheel is 28 lbs, and the OEM tire is 34 lbs = 62 lbs total (x 4) from the factory. The tire industry says it is safe to plus-up an additional 10 lbs on each wheel/tire combination using OEM stock brakes, so your target combined wheel/tire weight can be in the 72 lbs ballpark (x 4). If I ever opted for aftermarket wheels, I'd follow L-Dub's lead and seek-out lightweight CenterLine brand wheels (although, they're $$$).

Lastly, for any other size tire besides the popular 285/60R18 size, the Grabber AT2 cannot be matched in sheer traction, is studdable, super lightweight and is Snowflake/Mountain rated. I've noticed the individual tire weights on TireRack.com for the Grabber AT2 are somewhat ascue and incorrect. It is best to check the official website of www.GeneralTire.com for actual individual weights of the Grabber AT2.



Sorry for the T/J Bren. We now take you back to your regular scheduled program.

[workmeistr]

BTW, I did weigh before and after. Just FYI. I still highly recommend the Grabber HTS to anyone, I was just looking for a change, and hoping to use my VX for more offroading.

255/55R18 General Grabber HTS + Factory 18" Rim = 60.8 lbs
245/75R16 General Grabber AT2 + 4x4 Engineering 16" Rim = 68 lbs

[p_justin13]

Loving the rims man. Gives it a good rally look

[samneil2000]

Is that a new 2011 Ford Edge Sport I see in one of those pics? How awesome is that thing, with the 300 hp 3.7 v6?

[RickOKC]

Bren, that looks AWESOME! I love how you used the same color for the rack.