Making tire changes

[SRW]

My 2008 28' International has drum brakes and Marathon tires.

I have towed about 2000 miles since November 2007 and expect to tow 10000 to 12000 in 2008.

My understanding is that the Marathons might last a year, regardless of miles, but flats are common.

Replacing the existing rims with larger ones means that Michelins can be mounted.

My experience with Michelins has always been good. Except for flats as a result of road hazards I have never had a flat.

Not cheap to make the change, but seems like a good idea.

Any thoughts pro or con?

[ROBERTSUNRUS]

Hi, SRW. Why change something that hasn't caused you any problems? There are many more people out there that haven't had problems with their drum brakes and marathons than those who have. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." But if you have plenty of $$$$$$$ to throw around, throw some my way, I can use it wisely. "Any thoughts pro or con?" [my opinion]

[2airishuman]

hi srw...

there aren't many products that have been attacked more here...

than the goodyear marathons...

just take a scan at the many threads on this issue.

my experience has been good.

here are a few salient threads on UP sizing...

Trailer tires

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...ion-34105.html

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...ign-40137.html

IF i were to make a change, it would likely be to maxxis d/e ST tires...

8 ply vs 10 ply

China/Canadian Marathons ?

clearance (with 16s) becomes an issue and more so with triples...

so i'm unlikely to change sizes or wheels, besides i've got 9 of the 15" alcoa rims already.

u might consider adding centramatics to your current tire/wheel package...

i've already offered a short list of disc/drum threads to consider, in this one post...

http://www.airforums.com/forums/532993-post496.html

cheers
2air'

[SRW]

As always I appreciate the info and opinions.

In terms of not fixing it if it ain't broke, I just can't see waiting to have a problem like a flat or a even a blow out, when I can minimize the risk by making a change.

In spite of the cost I will change from drum to disc brakes and replace the Marathons with a different larger tire.

Thanks.

[ROBERTSUNRUS]

Hi, SRW. Only 2,000 miles on your brakes and tires; I wish you were a lot closer, I would love to have an extra set of tires and brakes from your trash can to my garage. Some people on this forum have made these changes and have gotten piece of mind and normal sleep again. Go for it, and keep us updated on how well it worked for you; And of course, pictures.

[AlbertF]

Which Michelin tires are you planning to use?

I share your views about Michelins. It's just about the only brand of tire that I've never had some kind of problem with. Goodyear passenger tires, in my experience, won't stay balanced. I have been told that it's because of a bead design issue, where the tires slip on the rim.

[thecatsandi]

Originally Posted by SRW

My 2008 28' International has drum brakes and Marathon tires.

I have towed about 2000 miles since November 2007 and expect to tow 10000 to 12000 in 2008.

My understanding is that the Marathons might last a year, regardless of miles, but flats are common.

Any thoughts pro or con?

I wore out my first set of Marathons in about 18 months. around 35,000 miles. I am on my second set. I do not expect to be travelling as much over the next few years due to a career change.

[ROBERT CROSS]

Originally Posted by ROBERTSUNRUS

Hi, SRW. Why change something that hasn't caused you any problems? "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." [my opinion]

Or..

"If it ain't broke, fix it 'til it is"

FWIW, Had Marathons on both AS for the last 20yrs, no problems at all.