Hutchinson Rock Monster wheels...

Palehorse1

Palehorse1

Observer
I was looking at the Staun internal beadlock wheel system the other day but didn't like the idea of my having to molest the wheelset I intended to use to install them and still not be completely street legal and not be able to use a Dyna Bead balancing solution since I know that I will be taking this vehicle offroad and have thrown my share of wheel weights in the past. A recent 4WD Toyota Owner article mentioned the use of the Hutchinson Rock Monster wheels which is a company I am familiar with as they make the beadlock wheels used on HMMWV's and some MRAP's.

I emailed Hal at Hutchinson - terribly polite and helpful - to confirm that the wheels will work on the 2011 Tacoma and he said yes but I just wanted to check the group here to find out if anyone is already running them and if so what are your impressions? I don't have a problem pulling the TPMS sensors and already have my wheelbarrow tire and wheel ready to go so I can drop them in there. Have you used these with the Dyna Bead type balancing system or would I have to switch over to the Centramatic type setup?

I'll be staying with a 17" wheel so it looks like the WA-0567 model is what I'll be working with as per the aforementioned conversation with Hal at Hutchinson. Thanks in advance for any and all insight that you can provide in this semi-confusing wheel hunt.
 
shawkins

shawkins

Adventurer
Ive seen pictures of them on a Taco of your generation. IIRC, the guy was from Canada. Im not sure if he is on here or TTORA.
 
freeze

freeze

Adventurer
I just used wheel weights. ended up being only 4oz. 17" is the only model they make that will fit the Tacoma.

They work for what I wanted... DOT beadlock. They are not light as they are almost 50lbs per wheel. You may want to upgrade your suspension for more rebound control with the heavier wheel set up as well as upgrade your steering arms. I'd also recommend going with 35"+ tires as anything less you won't be able to take advantage of the beadlock itself. Too much rim and not enough tire at low pressures.

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My experience with Hutchinson wasn't a smooth one as I had ordered them in September of 09 and didn't receive them till early may of 2010.

I was assured by both Bill and Hal that they were shipping at the end of each week for 8 months straight. I almost gave up.. I gave them a May deadline as it was super important to have them as I had bald tires waiting for 17's to get new tires for a week long 4WD Train the Trainer Course 1,800KM away.

Bill assured me that they'd get it here at the exact date which he'd tell the shipping lady at Hutchinson to rush the order. Last minute she refused... stalled and put it on standard shipping. I had to freight them by plane (wasn't in the game plan) once it cleared customs... It was a nightmare! Day before leaving, wheels arrived in the AM..I mounted all the tires balanced cut sheet metal and plastic to clear 35's rushed it into Toyota for an alignment.

I met Hal at SEMA and he was a great guy. Hutchinson does quite a bit of philanthropic work as well around New Jersey. Rock Monster line of wheel's is something kinda new for them and they're looking to make it more attainable for the masses. It's almost like Fox Racing where the military contracts take precedence. They had issues with castings during the time I was waiting and the also had to change casting companies as well. It would have been nice if they had said it will be a six month wait and not... it'll be ready this week.... over and over again!

Function wise... they work great. I can finally air down again to 5-7PSI.. make less impact.. float on snow and not get hassled by the police in the states
 
B

bjowett

Adventurer
LOL, I'm a dealer for these, and my story is similar to Freeze's... I suspect Hutchinson thought (or was hopeful) things would be moving a bit more quickly. Having to deal with various suppliers myself, things frequently do not happen on time... it's always something.

One thing is for sure, at least with my 0550 Tundra/Land Cruiser 5 on 150 wheels - They are stunningly well made. I run 37" tires, no lead, no shakes. The weight of these is their only major negative, but it comes with high quality and design.

They had a decent supply of wheels last spring, so if you decide you'd like to try them, you might not have to wait long.

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