Tire shopping

[windtrader]

Looking for a couple steers to start swap cycle over two seasons (4 each year).  Currently running BFG ST230 12r/22.5  but these are discontinued.

Following tires are available locally in 12r/22.5, price for tire including FET, no labor:

   
• Michelin XZE  - $668 Michelin Advantage program price
• BFGoodrich ST230 (discontinued but limited stock) $677 - local price
• Toyo M170 $484
• SumitomoST727 $387

Note: Michelin XZA shows discontinued

Big difference in price and sweet spot for value looks like the Toyo or Sumitomo. The dealer stated both these are made in Japan or USA so no Chinese crap.

[Utahclaimjumper]

The Toyo is an excellent tire,,particularly for steers,, will not "cup" if inflated correctly for the load.>>>Dan

[jmblake]

I'm looking at doing the same thing, I have Firestone FS560 12R/22.5 witch is now discontinued in that size. So now I'm pricing Firestone FS561 and Getting local prices anywhere from $465.00 - $525.00 About the same as the Toyo your pricing. Jason

[Dave5Cs]

Don we have Toyo's and have loved them for 6 years no. Got them in West Sac the Radial Tire Center. Good price and ride smooth. I keep mine at 90Lbs. Hey I can sell you mine for 375.00 a piece, LOL

[windtrader]

REVISED
Jason - Thanks for the FS561 option. Forgot to include in OP.
Dave - Sure 375. Your choice - rupees or pesos.

   
• Michelin XZE  - $668 Michelin Advantage program price
• BFGoodrich ST230 (discontinued but limited stock) $677 - local price
• Firestone FS561 $499
• Toyo M170 $484
• Sumitomo ST727 $387

[richard5933]

I've opted for the FS561. They are scheduled to be installed on my GM 4108 next Tuesday.

I've been riding on FS400 (315s) for a few years, and I've been impressed with them. Hoping the FS561 are just as good.

Anyone in the market for some FS400s that look great and have lots of tread (other than being 9+ years old)? Probably good for someone running a local truck or for a tag axle.

[Knuckles]

I put two sumitomo steers and four sumitomo rears on my coach and they have been wearing beautiful and I really loved the price. I was sceptical at first but after two seasons i am glad with my decision

[Mike in GA]

I am on my 2nd set of Sumitomos on the drive axle over 10 years.
Very satisfied!
Mike in GA

[buswarrior]

Often not discussed, is warrenty and availability of associated tire service.

National brands with national tire service has its advantages, if the price point fits your busnut budget.

Help is always around the corner?

I was remote to the bus, the vendor had goodyear available, no thinking needed for this set. I am away, perhaps the drives were "endurance" model? 315, as per the build plate this time, more thinking next time to better match tire to load, once the build is done.

Happy coaching!
Buswarrior

[windtrader]

Good point about warranty and dealer network for service.

Toyo offers 66 months warranty, 3 dealers in Sacramento area
https://www.toyotires.com/commercial-truck/customer-care/warranty

Sumitomo carries 6 year warranty, 1 dealer in Sacramento area
http://www.sumitomotrucktires.com/store-finder
http://www.sumitomotrucktires.com/upload/documents/bba2c4ed-7a9a-463e-92c5-a3bcd3c6816a.pdf

Firestone carries 6 year warranty, 2 dealers in Sacramento area
https://commercial.firestone.com/content/dam/bcs-sites/firestone/TBR/warranty/Firestone%20Truck%20&%20Bus%20Warranty_After%2001012019.pdf

[TomC]

I put Hankook 11R-24.5 14 ply on my bus-$1,500 less than Michelin. Freightliners standard tire is Hankook. Good Luck, TomC

[windtrader]

Tom - did not look at any Korean, Chinese or other brands, glad you have good experience with them.

Commercial tires usually wear out before aging out but our bus"RV" tires usually age out first. Maybe Michelin tires offer fair value for commercial use due to their better casings and overall quality holding up for an extra cap or two.

I'm going with the Sumitomo, age in stock is about 8 months. After running the numbers between Michelin and Sumitomo, the decision is pretty clear in my situation.  $5,344 vs $3,096 - don't see the value for an extra $2,248 - OUCH!

Remain undecided on doing a few more now or waiting. At least, new steers is a good thing.

[Dave5Cs]

My Toyo's are mark right on them "Made in China" oh no OMG oh wait smoothest tire I ever rode on and have 6 years so far, LOL
Remember when it was bad to buy Made in Japan, and now look at them.

[TomC]

I would stay away from no brand Chinese tires. Familiar brand tires made in China will be OK. Korean tires are as good as Japan. Good Luck, TomC

[Paul S]

I have the Hankook tires as well, put them on new all the way around before driving the coach from IL to PA, no complaints.