Michelin XPS Ribs (225/75x16) on our 19-foot Bambi

Phoenix · 08-15-2009, 02:50 AM

I tried to install Michelin XPS Ribs (225/75x16) on our 19-foot Bambi, but the tire dealer couldn't get the wheel and tire into the wheel wells. Also, my measurements appeared to indicate that even if they had deflated the tire and somehow managed to get it installed, there wouldn't be very much clearance. I was really concerned about interference if the axle moved around much on a rough road, or I hit a big hole.

Have those of you who switched to XPS Ribs on 16-inch rims on the 19-foot Bambi or Safari experienced the same problem? What did you do to get the wheel in the wheel well, and was there sufficient clearance?

Phoenix · 08-20-2009, 02:47 PM

Well, I guess there isn't anyone interested in switching to 16-inch wheels and XPS Ribs...

47WeeWind · 08-20-2009, 03:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Phoenix

I tried to install Michelin XPS Ribs (225/75x16) on our 19-foot Bambi, but the tire dealer couldn't get the wheel and tire into the wheel wells.

Hi Phoenix:

Did your tire dealer remove the grease cap from the outer end of your trailer's axle when he tried to install the wheel and tire? Sometimes that creates more "room" to get the wheel and tire assembly mounted.

Bluto · 08-20-2009, 04:43 PM

You picked one of the best tires on the road. Too bad it didn't work out. I'd like to see them make that tire in a 15. I'd buy some tomorrow if they did.
If you try the dust cap removal and it works for you please let us know.

Phoenix · 08-20-2009, 11:24 PM

Thanks for the responses. There are a couple of people that made the switch to the 16-inch wheels and XPS Ribs, but I'm not sure it was on the 19-foot Bambi. I am hoping they will tell us their secret.

I am running Maxxis tires now, but would like to make this switch in a couple of years when these wear out or fail. Otherwise, I also wish Michelin would make these all-steel tires in 225/75x15. It appears that this size is pretty common on trailers, and it would seem like there would be a pretty good market for them.

I sure wish I had figured out how to get the 16-inch wheels and tires on our Airstream before I purchased the Maxxis tires. They are fine for now, but I'd rather have put that money down on a permanent fix, instead of a bandaid.