Tires: Has anybody tried the Goodyear® Fuel Max™?

[Mex-Busnut]

Supposed to save at least 4% on fuel consumption, according to my local Goodyear® shop.

Also, my diesel mechanic says I should go with 12-ply, instead of 16 ply, for a softer ride.

Here is a video: Rolling Resistance: The Science Behind Goodyear's Fuel Max Tire Technology

Thanks in advance for your comments!

[belfert]

Unless the tires are the same price as other tires or you plan to drive a lot of miles you'll probably never see the savings.  Most of us never wear out a tire.  They age out and start cracking.

[luvrbus]

I don't think you want to run 12 ply tires on your bus adjust the air pressure in a 16 ply for a smooth ride, with 12 ply they will need to be aired to the max for weight

good luck

[TomC]

The ply rating on a tire is indicative to how much air it can be aired up to.  Typically a 12 ply is around 95-105, 14ply 105-115, and 16ply 120-130.  I have 16 ply Michelin 11R-24.5 XZE's (regional tires, but rated up to 75mph) that have reinforced sidewalls for those times you might have to jump a curb, or play Stevie Wonder when you pull up to a curb.  The on highway Michelin XZA3, or Goodyear Fuelmax G399's are great for over the road trucks that have to save every penny they can, but I firmly believe that if you are running these tires, one mistake and blowing out the tire because of thinner side walls will negate all fuel savings.  Stick with a 75mph rated 14 or 16 ply regional tire all around.  Then you can rotate them if they start wearing weirdly.  Good Luck, TomC