There is  lot more to tire construction than "reinforced" and
"non-reinforced". Speed rating also comes into play with higher speed
rated tires having stiffer sidewalls than lower speed rated tires.

The 560 SEC is supposed to ride on H speed rated tires, for handling,
not speed. BTW, the highest speed rated tires you'll find at WallyWorld
will be an S rating, substandard for that car. But WallyWorld will tell
you "it's fine" because you don't go that fast.

Thanks, Tom
256-656-1924

-----Original Message-----
From: "Chris S" <szpejankowski@GMAIL.COM>
To: "vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM" <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: 3/13/09 2:25 PM
Subject: Tires - Why oh why NOT?

I've been a Vanagon Westfalia ownder since 2001 and I have ALWAYS
agreed that Vanagons should have reinforced tires on their stock 14''
wheels.

Now, what happens when you upgrade to larger wheels?  Take this for
instance:

A 1990 Mercedes 560 SEC weighs about 4000lbs.  It rides on 205/60 R15
tires.  The tires are not reinforced.  The US version of that
wonderful car had only 236hp and it would push it to nearly 150mph,
with the Euro engine having closer to 300hp.  The car is over
engineered in true M-B fashion. It can take 5 adults down twisty
mountain roads in comfort with poise belying its portly weight.  Can
you say TIRE LOADS?

So my question, on this wonderful Friday:  Why oh why are Mercedes
15'' tires NOT good enough for our camper?

My answer is that our tiny concrete-filled 14'' donuts need to be
reinforced because nothing else in that size can handle 4000lbs of van
and furniture, and the 15'' Mercedes tires and wheels are just fine.

Take it away, list!  FLAME SUIT ON!

--
Chris S.
Disclaimer: "Death and serious injury may occur"

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