Winter Tires

[sk8nSam]

PSS and the cold

haven't seen any damage to the tires below 45 (or even below 32), but they get hard and slick at 45, and at 32F even a dry road needs to be treated with some respect.

I just chatted with a Michelin rep in France. He stated that "It is not recommended for UHP tires to be used in temperatures under 43 degrees. Using the tires in these temperatures may cause them to crack and of course loose traction as they take much longer to warm up." The cracks most often occur at the shoulder and can lead to detachment.

I realize this is a generic answer, but I'm going to inspect my tires carefully. I can handle the lack of traction, but I'm pretty sure I'll run out of talent should detachment occur! :doh:

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[johnny1]

I have to disagree on the factory Michelins possibly cracking below 45 degrees. Yes it is clearly stated by Ford and Michelin the cup tires on the R can crack if below 45 degrees due to glass deposits built into the tire. But there is nothing stating the regular Michelins will crack below 45 degrees. Owners manual only states its unsafe being a summer tire and traction issues. I'm sure a lot of us have to drive our cars below 45 degrees and as mine even though under a car port it is a daily driver (weather permitting) and if mine get cracks then Ford will be giving me a new set come spring due to disclosure issues. Had a 2005 GTO with summer tires and did the same thing and two years later when I traded car they looked just fine.

 

[sk8nSam]

I have to disagree on the factory Michelins possibly cracking below 45 degrees. Yes it is clearly stated by Ford and Michelin the cup tires on the R can crack if below 45 degrees due to glass deposits built into the tire. But there is nothing stating the regular Michelins will crack below 45 degrees. Owners manual only states its unsafe being a summer tire and traction issues. I'm sure a lot of us have to drive our cars below 45 degrees and as mine even though under a car port it is a daily driver (weather permitting) and if mine get cracks then Ford will be giving me a new set come spring due to disclosure issues. Had a 2005 GTO with summer tires and did the same thing and two years later when I traded car they looked just fine.

Thanks for the real-world update. I'd hate to ruin my tires just because it's cold outside!

 

[CoolFire]

I bought some 275/40/19 and 255/40/19 Blizzak LM32.
TIRES fit but unfortunately American Muscle ordered me some wheels that did not clear the front brakes despite stated differently Waiting for replacements now that are out of stock.
The calipers put some silver circles into those front rims.
I'm glad I am not that kind of guy that gets upset of the little damage to the paint of the calipers...

 

[CoolFire]

Hey guys,

maybe helpful for the very few still putting winter tires on.
American Muscle sent a second pair of 19 inch wheels, that again didn't clear the brakes.

Now everything is shipping back. Sure 8 times mounting, balancing and reversing everything costed more than $400 at an auto shop. more than 100$ in shipping costs for the tires are also not reimbursed.

So be careful when ordering 19 inch wheels for the GT350. I thought i trust an expert and was proved wrong.
A month of trouble and now waiting how much of my money i am getting back.

Oliver

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