On 4/28/2011 6:53 PM, Barton wrote:
What kind of rims were you using? I've got 87 16" rims from my 560SEL on my 83 300SD with no problems.I recently put on a set of Michelin Pilot Exalto A/S ( 225/55 R16's) on 16" rims instead of the 15" Bundt's that I was running on. No question the car feels like it's on rails and had noticeably more traction this winter than last in snow/ice/slush w/out being a winter tire. Took some time/effort to get these mounted and running right, but once those issues were sorted, I've been very happy. These rims came with spacing shims for the front wheels which provide enough clearance not to rub against the tie rod ends, (although it seems there is still a little when the wheel is fully locked on either side, and apparently enough that the tire (not the rim) managed to
eat through the front right wear sensor cable to the back of the disc brake housing))!!
(btw, where do I get a new/longer cable? Front brakes still good but would like to know when the front right one is going)
In addition to extra spacing shims, there are special Mercedes "stretch bolts" which are almost 6" - 8" in depth with are used to mount these rims. I managed to snap 3 of 5 on one wheel, 1 of 5 on another wheel. I had them drilled out and replaced with original Mercedes dealer lugs for these rims....(owch)...Total for the tire from Tire Rack, mounted/balanced/sorted - approx $900....
As expected, I definitely give up some acceleration speed due to the
different size tires, may not have a correct speedo w/out adding a bit
to it and no doubt these rims and tires probably put more tress/strain
on the suspension (which is brand new upfront), but the ride seems to
be worth it and I should get 50k mi out of the lot.
Still have the original 1984 Conti factory spare on Bundt salvaged from the donor car in the trunk. I put about 300 mi on it after swapping engines and just to make sure it was still good, then put it back in the trunk. :^)
-Barton
--- In diesel_mercedes@yahoogroups.com, "carter061832" <carter061832@...> wrote:
>
> I would like to hear recommendations for new tires for my car. i wanted tires with the following size 205 70 14 , but the selection is very limited. I am considering the Michelin hydro edge, yes they pricey and only available in 195 70 14.
>
> thanks
>
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