What is an Axle Truss?
What is an Axle Truss, Why You Need One, and Why TNT Customs Builds the Best
When it comes to off-roading, durability and strength are critical. The trails you conquer, the rocks you crawl, and the mud you power through push your Jeep’s components to their limits. One of the most overlooked but critical upgrades for off-roaders is the axle truss. If you’re serious about off-roading adventures, understanding what an axle truss does, why you need one, and why TNT Customs builds the best on the market could save your rig from disaster.
TNT’s trusses come fully welded with mounts in the proper location and span the axle’s center section, tying the driver and passenger sides together. This design not only saves you time during installation but also ensures unparalleled strength right out of the box. With TNT Customs, you get a truss engineered to conquer the toughest trails with unmatched reliability and performance.
What is an Axle Truss?
An axle truss is a structural reinforcement welded to your Jeep’s axle housing to provide additional strength and rigidity. Axles endure immense stress during off-roading, particularly with lifted Jeeps, larger tires, and intense rock crawling. Over time, this stress can lead to axle housing bending or cracking, compromising your vehicle’s performance and safety.
An axle truss distributes the load across the entire axle, reducing flex and preventing potential failures. Think of it as armor for your axle, enabling it to withstand harsh trail abuse.
Truss vs. Gusset: Clearing Up the Confusion
Truss: A truss is a structural framework that spans the cast center section of the axle, connecting both ends. It distributes forces evenly across the axle assembly, reducing stress on specific areas and improving overall durability.
Gusset: A gusset is a localized reinforcement plate or bracket welded to a specific weak point. While gussets strengthen individual joints, they don’t distribute forces like a truss. Without proper load distribution, stress can transfer to unreinforced areas, potentially causing failures elsewhere.
Key Takeaway: If you want comprehensive axle reinforcement for heavy-duty off-roading, a truss is the superior choice. Gussets can supplement a truss but should not replace it.
Why Do You Need an Axle Truss?
If your Jeep rarely leaves pavement, an axle truss may not be necessary. But for those who push their rigs to the limits, it is essential. Here’s why:
- Prevent Axle Housing Bending: Larger tires and high torque from upgraded engines create forces that can bend your axle tubes. A bent axle affects alignment, causes uneven tire wear, and can lead to costly repairs.
- Lifted Jeeps: Lift kits and larger tires increase leverage on the axle, adding strain. An axle truss combats this stress, keeping your axle intact.
- Axle Swaps: When upgrading axles, adding a truss ensures they can handle increased demands without bending or cracking.
Without an axle truss, a single hard hit on the trail could result in a bent or broken axle, leaving your Jeep stranded. A truss is a small investment that protects one of your vehicle’s most critical components.
Why TNT Customs Builds the Best Axle Trusses
TNT Customs has decades of experience crafting parts that withstand the toughest conditions. Their axle trusses stand out for several reasons:
- Precision Engineering
TNT Customs trusses are CAD-designed for a perfect fit, balancing strength and weight savings. - Premium Materials
Made with heavy-duty laser-cut steel, TNT trusses are built for ultimate durability and ease of welding. - Versatility
TNT offers trusses for a wide range of popular axles, including Dana 30, Dana 44, and Dana 60, ensuring compatibility for most builds. - Real-World Testing
Designed and tested by off-road enthusiasts, TNT trusses are built to handle the demands of hardcore trails. - Ease of Installation
TNT’s weld-ready trusses come with detailed instructions, making installation straightforward for both DIYers and professionals. - Made in the USA
Every TNT Customs product is proudly manufactured in the USA, supporting local craftsmanship and small businesses.
Explore TNT Customs Products
Upgrade your Jeep with confidence. Browse TNT Customs’ lineup of these trusses, suspension parts, and off-road essentials at TNTCustoms.com. Protect your rig and tackle the toughest trails with products designed by off-road