RGOLEN@umassd.edu wrote:

> I replaced them with a set of Michelin MXL reinforced tires, and after 40k miles, its time to replace them. When I contacted my local tire store, I was told that the MXL reinforced tires were no longer available. Michelin is replacing the MXL with a tire called the Agilis. If you are interested in these tires the stock number for the EuroVan is 99128.

> The tires should be available to tire dealers in the next week or so. I'll post something when I get mine.

> Ric

Dear all,

Here is a copy of what I wrote in the Dec. 97 issue of Eurovan Update
(6330 Waid Circle, Paducah  KY  42001 / Editor Winborn Gregory at
GregoryWD@aol.com or (502)441-7612) :

The Michelin MXL 205/65/15 has been discontinued, but some are available
to dealers on an "emergency" basis. It is Michelin part #
46582. Give this # to your tire dealer. [Note: This info was accurate
in July '97, I do not know about now.]
The "new" replacement is the Michelin Agiles 51, made in Italy. One of
the four I purchased (in 7/97) was manufactured in the 15th week of
'96. [The mfg date can be discerned on the side of any tire by looking
for the letters "DOT", the three numbers following signify: the first
two are the week, and the third is the year of manufacture, ex. 156 for
the aforementioned tire]
I purchased mine from NTB in Nashville (Hickory Hollow: 615-731-8473).
You need to tell them to get the Michelin part #99128. I was charged
$90.99 for each tire. (Rich at Michelin-800-847-8475 told me the LIST
price for the MXL is $115 vs. $125 for the Agiles 51)
I am pleased with the tires. Compared to the Goodyear G64's, they seem
to give a quieter and smoother ride. They're a bit wider, so they may
corner better too.
The load rating is 102 instead of the 99 of the MXL; that means it will
carry heavier loads. The sidewall shows a rating of 1875 lb.
Interestingly, the Agiles 51 is NOT a reinforced tire, but rather a
6-ply affair.
I bought mine in July '97, don't let someone tell you they are not
available! The NTB part # is 1701614. (NTB, National Tire & Battery
was formerly NTW, National Tire Warehouse)

Happy Eurovaning!

Wade Punch / 615-333-2300-home