SP Sport 5000 Symmetrical - 255/55/18

[SWOOSH]

I called Tirerack because I am out of options for a tire no one is just not making anymore, they suggested the SP Sport 5000 Symmetrical (http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires.jsp?tireMake=Dunlop&tireModel=SP+Sport+5000+Symmet rical); does anyone have experience with this tire???

[sd8683]

I have them and I love them.

[SWOOSH]

I hope I will love them too then. I hope someday I can get Michelins though!:burnout:

[red]

These are H rated tires, which equates to lots of sidewall flex. At least look at options that more closely match the stock tires. For example, take a look at the Falken Ziex S/T Z01; they are 255/55R18 109W 420-A-A. If possible, I'd suggest investing in a separate set of winter wheels and tires so you don't have to make the sacrifices of all-season tires, which are not great for Winter or for Summer.

[SWOOSH]

When exactly should Winter tires be used and when should Summer tires be used?

[SWOOSH]

Can I run Winter tires now?

[SWOOSH]

What tires do you suggest for Winter and Summer driving, also, what size?

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When exactly should Winter tires be used and when should Summer tires be used?
Winter tires should be used when temperatures are approaching freezing as standard compounds will no longer be effective due to hardening. With a Summer-Winter tire schedule, you may want to switch earlier to and later from the Winter tires as Summer tire performance drops off significantly at around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and lower. The answer depends on your location/climate and weather of a given year.


Can I run Winter tires now?
I recommend talking to other members in your area in order to make this decision.

[red]

What tires do you suggest for Winter and Summer driving, also, what size?
For general Winter tire information, you can see what I wrote in another thread (link (http://www.mercurymarauder.net/forums/showpost.php?p=682337&postcount=14)) and read the Tire Rack Winter Tech articles (link (http://www.tirerack.com/winter/tech/index.jsp)). You should consult other members from the North and see what they're running for Winter tires or read what they have already poster in the Tires and Wheels section. From what I can tell, most use a 16" steel wheel with tires of a 225 or 235 section width. For Summer (and assuming you're stock or close to), 235/50R18 and 255/55R18 is a proven and common tire combination. I and others have been running the top rated Max Performance Summer tire--the Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3. They are widely known for their superb wet traction (highest rated on the market) and insanely grippy dry traction (again, see the ratings and reviews). I also have a list of some of the Summer options on the Wiki (link (https://www.mymarauder.com/wiki/index.php?title=Tires#Common_C ombinations)).

[SWOOSH]

Hey, thanks a lot guys!

[SWOOSH]

After hearing about the H rated tire, I decided to send back the Dunlops (Even though I had them all week, I was able to take them back to UPS and have them shipped back for free). I then ordered the KUMHO Ecsta STX 255/55/18s, that's the best I can do, we'll see what happens, wish me luck!

[TJCOX]

Have a set on the rear ! Rated #1 in c.r.

[red]

I then ordered the KUMHO Ecsta STX 255/55/18s, that's the best I can do, we'll see what happens, wish me luck!
Just be careful. Tire selection is only part of the equation to safe Winter driving.