Question on tire replacement...
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 314
Likes: 1
From: Ft. Lauderdale, FL
1972 280SE 4.5
Question on tire replacement...
Hey guys,
The tires on our E are getting close to needing a replacement. I know I'm gonna catch a lot of slack for saying this, but I can't stand those low profile tires. The ride is rough!!!
Do I have to replace the tires with low profile because I have the big rims (see below -- not actual photo) or can I get regular tires? And, if so, any recommendations? I'm in South Florida and I want big fluffly ride!
The tires on our E are getting close to needing a replacement. I know I'm gonna catch a lot of slack for saying this, but I can't stand those low profile tires. The ride is rough!!!
Do I have to replace the tires with low profile because I have the big rims (see below -- not actual photo) or can I get regular tires? And, if so, any recommendations? I'm in South Florida and I want big fluffly ride!
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 413
Likes: 3
2003 E320
I don't know about all tire retailers but I can tell you that the chain stores are prohibited from installing alternate size tires that exceed 3% in diameter. The reason is for the speedometer error it creates. In addition, they will not install a LOWER speed rating than the factory application. So, by my statements, you are pretty limited in changing. I can sympathizare with the ride characteristics. Some older metropolitan areas have such poor paving that rims / tires take a pounding. Several threads on this board about the abuse they suffer from rims / tires with low profiles . The younger guys on this board are all about style and bling and I can assure you that someone will want those 18"? rims. I am more a form / function guy and the lowly 16" 10 spokers that came on my car are functional, classic style and take the soft donuts you seek.
