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There are other factors to consider.... Posted by Herb Hirsch [Email] (#114) [Profile/Gallery] (more from Herb Hirsch) on Wed, 3 Oct 2007 11:02:16 In Reply to: Help with tire sizes...I'm no engineer, 79-99, Wed, 3 Oct 2007 06:13:26 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Changing the tire size for your snow tires can be more complicated than just the tire size.
Skinnier and taller tires , such as a 205/60-16, offers a few benefits.
1. Better gas mileage. Skinnier tires have lower rolling resistance.
2. Better performance in the snow; the skinnier bites into the snow better. However, you will give up a little of the dry pavement performance you're used to. Note that the biggest snow performance improvement you'll experience will come from the use of a full snow tire (not an all season tire).
3. Better protection against bent rims due to pot holes. The greater height of the tire offers this advantage.
I would suggest a very small change in tire size such as 205/55-16 or a 215/60-16. Larger changes in tire size requires determination of the effect of these factors.
1) Is the rim size appropriate?
2) Is the load rating of the tire still adequate?
3) Will the tire clear the wheel well under all circumstances?
4) Speedometer calibration?
5) Ground clearance? Is it the same or improved?
6) Handling? Finding out that you have given up a lot of good handling would be unfortunate if that occured after you bought the snow tires.
7) Thread life?
In conclusion, a very small change, such as to a 205/55-16, would probably work without serious consequences. FOLLOWING SAAB'S RECOMENDATION WOULD BE THE SAFEST COURSE OF ACTION...THAT WOULD GIVE YOU AN EFFECTIVE SET OF SNOW TIRES.
posted by 205.188.11...
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