Tony,

My Michelins were in tough shape too, and there was a tread separation
on one. The Altimax RT sure rides nice, and my van handles well with
them on the ground.

Re - Price: Tire Rack seemed the way to got at first. I had checked the
local "Official" General tire dealer  and they wanted $105 each mounted,
balances and installed - total $420. The Tire Rack price was a good one
@ $58/each, but by the time freight, and local installation charges were
added it was $370. I was going to go the tire rack route but then
someone recommended this local outfit that is a little different - and
they gave me the best price - $300 - mounted, balanced, installed.
And I will tell you - these guys hustled! Four fellows came busting out
of the shop with a hydraulic floor jack  each, (only three were used).
They had those wheels off in a heartbeat. 20 minutes later all the tires
were mounted, balanced, and being wheeled back out to the van. Ten
minutes later I'm back on the road. Now THAT is service! These guys had
their crap together, and being a shopcrafts person myself (aircraft
mechanic - retired) , I really appreciated the hustle these fellows put
into it.

Regards,

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver

Tony Collins wrote:
> Hey John
>
> Welcome to the alternative tire of choice!!! I love these tires. I went thru
> all the same motions, but I found it cheaper to get the tires from Tire rack
> and get them installed than using a local tire house.
> I have to say that I love the way these ride and the van feels more sure
> footted than before, but then again the old tires where truly in bad shape.
>
> Tony
> --
> 82 Scirocco "Rodolfo"
> 85 Vanagon "Blubrik, El Guapo"
>
>
>