After installing the Skyjacker 3.5-Inch lift on the TRS-3 2021 Ford Ranger FX4, I chose to try out the LT295/70/17 Thunderer Trac Grip M/T tires. During the past year and eight months I’ve had several opportunities to take them off-road and have used them in sand, mud, river crossings and rocks while exploring everything from the Red River of Texas to the harsh trails of Kentucky. And after two trips back and forth to Kentucky plus everyday driving, I’ve put a lot of miles on these tires.
Some of you may know that in the past I’ve used Cooper STT PRO tires which is a fantastic tire. So why did I get the Thunderers? Because these tires are about $210 a piece versus $325+ for the Coopers.
295/70/17 Tire Specifications
| Part Number | TH2454 |
| Category | Mud Terrain |
| Mileage Warranty | None |
| Load Index | 3197 lbs (121) / 2910 lbs (118) |
| Load Range | E (10 Ply) |
| Max Speed | 100 MPH (Q) |
| Tread Depth | 21/32nds |
| Inflation Pressure | 80 PSI |
| Overall Diameter | 33.54″ |
| Tire Weight | 63.2 lbs |
| Section Width | 11.77″ |
| Sidewall | 3-ply sidewall construction |
| Rim Range | 7.50″ – 10.00″ |
| Tread Design | Symmetrical** |
| 3PMSF Rated | No |
** These tires have a tread design that’s the same on both sides of the tire, making them easy to rotate and providing consistent performance no matter which direction you’re driving in.
Would I Buy Them Again?
I think the Thunderer Trac Grip M/T performs great off-road. They have nice big tread lugs with 21/32nds tread depth and good side biters (tread) which help the tire claw its way through the mud.
I’ve had problems getting these balanced and I almost wonder if they’re out of round. They don’t get annoying though until I get over 60 MPH. The tread is a bit noisy which is to be expected from an aggressive mud terrain, and I get a vibration from them not balancing well. I would use these again on an off-road vehicle, but not on a truck I drove on the road every day.
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road adventures contributed by owners worldwide. TheRangerStation.com has been referenced in print, video and online by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, and experience-based information.
