A Guide to Thick-Bead Tires and Proper Beadlock Installation
One of the biggest advantages of a true beadlock wheel is the ability to run lower tire pressures without worrying about losing the tire bead. But not every tire is built the same.
As off-road tires continue to evolve, many of today’s premium tires feature significantly thicker bead bundles than traditional all-terrain or mud-terrain tires. This is especially common on 40-inch and 42-inch tires designed for hardcore crawling, and extreme trail use.
In some cases, these thicker beads require the use of a beadlock spacer to ensure the tire is clamped correctly.
Why Does This Happen?
A beadlock wheel works by mechanically clamping the tire bead between the wheel and the beadlock ring.
When the tire bead is unusually thick, the beadlock ring may bottom out before it fully compresses the tire bead.
As shown below, without a spacer:
- The ring cannot clamp the tire correctly.
- Bolt torque may be misleading.
- The tire bead may not be fully secured.
This is why proper clamping is critical, not simply tightening the bolts.
How a Spacer Fixes the Problem
A beadlock spacer sits beneath the beadlock ring, creating additional clamping height for thicker tire beads.
With the spacer installed:
- The ring clamps the tire bead correctly.
- Proper bolt engagement is maintained.
- Clamping force is distributed evenly around the wheel.
- The tire is securely locked in place.
The result is a safe, reliable beadlock installation that performs exactly as intended.
Which Tires Typically Need a Spacer?
Most A/T, R/T, and M/T tires install without any issues.
However, some tires may require a spacer, particularly:
- 40-inch
- 42-inch
- Tires with reinforced or extra-thick bead construction
Because bead thickness varies by manufacturer, and even between tire models, there is no universal rule for when a spacer is required.
How Do I Know If I Need One?
If the beadlock ring does not fully clamp the tire bead during installation, or if the tire’s bead construction prevents proper compression, a spacer may be necessary.
Rather than guessing, it’s always best to verify the application before final assembly.
THRET® Support
THRET® beadlock spacers are not included as a standard component because the vast majority of tire applications do not require them.
When a spacer is needed, it is provided on a case-by-case basis after reviewing your wheel and tire combination.
If you’re installing a set of 40s, 42s, or any tire with a thick bead, our team is happy to help determine whether a spacer is needed.
Questions about your setup?
Give us a call at (888) 763-2549, and we’ll help ensure your beadlock wheels are set up correctly.
Born to Hit the Trails™