Baystate Jeepers

Just saw Rob's new Smttybilt tube fenders on his TJ and they look GREAT!!! Which got me to thinking about how they're on my wish list. But I have a few questions, maybe someone can enlighten me

Side lights - the factory fenders have the side marker lights. These lights ditched with tube fenders, or hows that work? If you lose those lights, does it drive your other lights nuts, make your turn signals stay on solid and not blink?

Vehicle Inspection - how does MASS look at a vehicle with no side marker lights in front, and/or fenders that don't cover the front tires?

I know people run tube fenders and maybe the lights and fender width aren't as important as I thought. But it's always easy to ask an expert and get answers!

you basically need to add provisions for any light that is deleted by the tube fender. most people seem to go with LED options as they are smaller and easier to fit in the space. I dont think you will pass if you are lacking those lights... depending on the front bumper some people will cut the lights into the front clip like on a CJ but with the ARB bumper you and I have its not as much an option to do... you can likely use the holes in the front bump for the turn signal/marker lights in the front....

Tube fenders are so 2000's.

ZAEDOCK wrote:Tube fenders are so 2000's.

thought it was more 40s.....

40's is flat, not tOOb.

Carl, it depends on the station you get inspected. I recently had a "discussion" with the auto parts dUde who just finished inspection classes. He told me all vehicles in Mass can only be lifted 2". I happily disagreed and informed him about 540 CMR 6.00. He had NO idea what I was talking about and that his instructor clearly told them 2". I printed out a copy of the CMR and referenced Ch90 MGL for him.

when I think tube I think flattie....

Voodoo Chile wrote: when I think tube I think flattie....

When I think tube and flat, it reminds me of 70's chicks wearing tube tops.

Well to answer your question and be on topic

I modified my TnT fenders to use the stock side marker.



As far as the lights screwing things up all I did is leave the bulbs plugged into the socket for the front turn signal and zip tied them under the hood. People never even notice they are there.

Did you see Rob's fenders in person? I always thought that style didn't give you as much as some of the full replacement style do.

No, didn't see the fendahs in person, just the pics on FB. And yeah your TnT's look a lot bigger. Guess I'll have to see how generous Mr Claus is. And didn't think about that provision in my front bumpah! Tx guys

Carl McFly wrote: And yeah your TnT's look a lot bigger.

Carl McFly wrote:Just saw Rob's new Smttybilt tube fenders on his TJ and they look GREAT!!! Which got me to thinking about how they're on my wish list. But I have a few questions, maybe someone can enlighten me

Side lights - the factory fenders have the side marker lights. These lights ditched with tube fenders, or hows that work? If you lose those lights, does it drive your other lights nuts, make your turn signals stay on solid and not blink?

Vehicle Inspection - how does MASS look at a vehicle with no side marker lights in front, and/or fenders that don't cover the front tires?

I know people run tube fenders and maybe the lights and fender width aren't as important as I thought. But it's always easy to ask an expert and get answers!

Thank you Carl. My stock fenders were rubbish & why put the same ones back on? Besides my awesome new look my rig has way more clearance & much stronger & plenty of room for larger tires! Good luck with your upgrade!
will post my cool pics tonite

Carl McFly wrote:
Vehicle Inspection - how does MASS look at a vehicle with no side marker lights in front, and/or fenders that don't cover the front tires?

You need to have all factory lights installed and in working order to pass inspection.

Lights aside...keep this in mind: Tube fenders are illegal in the state of Mass. This was told to Nick Carney (after he installed tube fenders on his Rubi) by a State Cop who is in charge of vehicle inspections.

Why are they illegal? They eliminate the factory crumple zone built into the factory fenders.
He also commented on his side markers and turn signals that Nick had installed. He said they were too small, not enough reflective surface area.

Food for thought before tube fenders are installed.


Disclaimer: Not all inspection stations are aware of these regulations, you may be able to get a stickah with said modifications.

This is not a daily driver & we have many friends with same set up running 39'-40's and have inspection stickers. We have a few local friendly inspection stations so I am not too concerned. Also Carol & I have a trailer if need be. Appreciate the in-put though.

midniteryder wrote:This is not a daily driver & we have many friends with same set up running 39'-40's and have inspection stickers. We have a few local friendly inspection stations so I am not too concerned. Also Carol & I have a trailer if need be. Appreciate the in-put though.

My post was not directed at you Rob. That being said, what you posted does not make them legal.

DOUG wrote:

midniteryder wrote:This is not a daily driver & we have many friends with same set up running 39'-40's and have inspection stickers. We have a few local friendly inspection stations so I am not too concerned. Also Carol & I have a trailer if need be. Appreciate the in-put though.

My post was not directed at you Rob. That being said, what you posted does not make them legal.

No help needed Doug.