Question re: OEM ML500 tires
08-19-2002, 12:31 AM
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08 GL450
Question re: OEM ML500 tires
The OEM 275/55-17 Dunlop Grandtrek tires on my ML430 need replacement soon. They have lasted almost 45,000 miles. Is that still factory mount for the current ML500, which uses same tire size? I saw a new ML500 with Continental tires , but can't find that model at the Tire Rack. Thanks in advance.
08-19-2002, 08:19 AM
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2000 CLK320 Cabrio 2020 E 450 Wagon '92 VW
I picked up my 2003 ML500 this past Wednesday, 8/14, and it has Dunlop tires. I'll check to see exactly what type they are and report back. By the way, I'm glad to read that you like the Dunlops -- I was wondering if they were any good.
08-19-2002, 10:52 AM
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The Dunlops on MY02 ML500 and 320 are Sport SP 5000. They are actually quite good in dry weather. I haven't had the opportunity to rain test mine yet. The Rack does carry them. Personally, if you're getting new tires and you don't live in the snow belt, get the Bridgestone Duelers. I saw a unidirectional one on a ML430 over this summer in Hilton Head Island, NC and they looked absolutely great - I don't recall which Dueler it was though.
08-19-2002, 11:29 AM
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I've been very happy with my OEM Dunlops. Handle well enough, quiet , smooth ride and can't beat 45,000 miles on a truck tire ! Just wondered if the Grandtrek TG 35 is still OEM. Not interested in " aggressive" rubber like Pirelli Scorpion. Probably would gain noise, lower tread life, and harsher ride for a " cool " tread pattern .
I have a weekend sports car when I want to tackle the twisties. Use the right tool for the right job, I say.
I have a weekend sports car when I want to tackle the twisties. Use the right tool for the right job, I say.
08-19-2002, 01:51 PM
#5
The Grandtreks aren't OEM anymore. If you want to go Dunlop, then get the current OEM - Sp Sport 5000. They really are great tires. If you stick with the Grandtrek series, my preference is the 25N. Good looking and very quiet (when new), but not as grippy as the 35 in deep slosh. I believe they're also less expensive.
08-19-2002, 11:52 PM
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Darkman, thanks for the update. Are the SP 5000s as "open" a tread block pattern for slushy mountain driving or more like those " sedan" tires I see on Lexus RX300s ? I prefer the ability to get through snow, gravel and crud . Thanks again in advance.
08-20-2002, 12:50 PM
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Well , I compared the current OEM SP Sport 5000s with the superceded Gradtrek TG35s at Tire Rack's website. Looks like the new tire is better wet, dry, ride, tire wear and temp /traction ratings. Only down side is a little less open tread pattern but I can live with that , as I'm in the SF Bay Area and only drive Tahoe a couple weeks / year in the snow. Thanks for the info !
Seems the $145 price suggests a better built tire , too. Was always concerned that the OEM ML320 and 430 rubber from '98-'99 could be bought for $70-90 tire - like a Pep Boys special for a '72 Buick - man what corners were cut ?
Seems the $145 price suggests a better built tire , too. Was always concerned that the OEM ML320 and 430 rubber from '98-'99 could be bought for $70-90 tire - like a Pep Boys special for a '72 Buick - man what corners were cut ?
