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OTRA15 · 03-25-2016, 05:48 PM

Steve I am planning to upgrade the wheels and tires similar to what TCwheels did here in Post 72 (with details in later posts as I recall).

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f516...ml#post1563704

I have been collecting threads about the tire issues, so here are the links in case you are interested. Obviously the threads run the gamut of trailer sizes and uses. The most recent thread, along with the tire sub-forum, follows next:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-148274.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438/

Other threads focusing on Michelin possibilities, mainly 16" but not exclusively, and wheels (not necessarily in chronological order -- there is lots of reading to do):

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-145883.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-147401.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...-a-127087.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f238...de-146508.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...de-146800.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...es-143822.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...ms-130350.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...s2-137278.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...xl-144555.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...res-69297.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-146825.html

Centramatics thread: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...ad-129161.html

After all the reading, I keep coming back to what TCwheels went with, which I believe is available in a current design Michelin M&S (mud and snow) tread.

Quote:

Originally Posted by TCwheels

. . .
I JUST put the 16" Sendel T03 wheels with Michelin 225/75 LTX 'E' rated tires on my FC20 and they fit fine. Even the center caps fit perfectly. Clearance is a tad tighter, but they'll travel with no problem. Lots of other folks have done this on their 20s. You'll have no problems.

I think the Defender M&S has replaced the previous models, but your tire dealer can probably give complete advice, including sizes and load rating. With our single axles, we need an "E" load rating IMO (only 2 tires to carry 5,000 total gross weight), with a speed rating well above 65 MPH. In the drop-down "Size" frame, however, I do not see the 225/75 size. Hmmmm . . .

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires...nder+LTX+M%2FS

Previous models for M&S:

http://www.michelinman.com/US/en/tir.../ltx-m-s.html#
http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/tir...19&irpid=10078
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....omCompare1=yes

These dealer sites have drop down menus/boxes with details about available sizes, and the load and speed ratings.

Confusing!

OTRA15 · 03-25-2016, 06:34 PM

[ran out of edit time in last post]

The Michelin LTX M/S2 model is listed here as available in that size. I am not sure if it is currently stocked, or is available only until inventory runs out. I plan on getting a M&S snow tire for braking and turning traction in slushy/snowy road conditions, not that I plan to tow then, but I would not want to be stuck with plain road tread tires. TCwheels clarified that his were M&S in Post 432.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....omCompare1=yes

Ray Eklund in the first thread linked in my last post seems to be getting these tires IMO.

Good luck, Steve, please let us know what your research finds.

Have a good Easter weekend.

Peter

OTRA15 · 03-25-2016, 07:56 PM

PS see jpons Michelin tires in Post 508 also, plus TCwheels in 509 and 510.

renderit · 03-26-2016, 04:56 AM

Hey moderator type people! Is there a way we poor 20 footers could get a section so we could actually split this fine info into easy to follow threads? There are many many fine threadable thoughts in here that are nearly impossible to follow because it is a travelog, maintenance, instructional and informational thread all at once. We seem to be a vibrant bunch. Could we get a section?

MaineStreamer · 03-26-2016, 04:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OTRA15

[ran out of edit time in last post]

The Michelin LTX M/S2 model is listed here as available in that size. I am not sure if it is currently stocked, or is available only until inventory runs out. I plan on getting a M&S snow tire for braking and turning traction in slushy/snowy road conditions, not that I plan to tow then, but I would not want to be stuck with plain road tread tires. TCwheels clarified that his were M&S in Post 432.

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....omCompare1=yes

Ray Eklund in the first thread linked in my last post seems to be getting these tires IMO.

Peter

Peter - Are you saying that it seems prudent to use M&S snow tires year-round, even if one doesn't haul the Airstream during slushy/snowy weather season?

MaineStreamer · 03-26-2016, 05:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Wild Child

Otra - thanks for the scoop on DAR. We probably won't be heading that way this year, as I think we will be doing a combo of weekend trips to the beach: Cape Cod and Maine - then a joining the NE or CT WBCCI groups for weekend gatherings. The first one is April 14-15 Pets & Paws Rally in Mansfield MA.

Anyone a member of the WBCCI groups for these two areas? Would love to see and meet some folks from this very active forum!

Wild Child - I'm in southern Maine, and although I'm not signed up for the WBCCI New England Unit trip on April 14-15, I'd be glad to meet you when you are passing through or staying in this area. Incidentally, the White Mountains New Hampshire Unit (WMNHU), of which I am a member, stayed a few days at Winslow Park in Freeport, Maine last September and some experienced Airstreamers said that it was their favorite low-key campground where they've ever stayed. It is really beautiful.
http://freeportmaine.com/department....php?page_id=98 I have actually gone back during the off-season just to walk around.

OTRA15 · 03-26-2016, 05:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MaineStreamer

Peter - Are you saying that it seems prudent to use M&S snow tires year-round, even if one doesn't haul the Airstream during slushy/snowy weather season?

Yes Marty I feel that is the way to go, as the M&S will help in mud, sand and other off-road areas in addition to snow (especially for braking and cornering). As a practical matter, most of the cars I have had have always had M&S tires added for year-round travel, and they are OEM equipment on many vehicles. A bit noisier perhaps (in cars and tow vehicles), with slightly lower MPGs, but the benefits outweigh the costs IMO.

Michelin also makes an all-terrain tire (as do many other mfg.) with a more aggressive tread -- not needed IMO for most trailers.

renderit -- not sure about the "poor 20 footers" notion, or with the concept that separate threads would work well for this community. In my personal opinion, the freedom to post on various topics within this thread is a strength not a fault. Obviously YMMV, and I have said a few times that starting another thread would be fine if people object. I just don't think these discussions are easily severable that's all. The same thing will happen all over again, because we tend to wander around to (mostly!) relevant sub-topics. That is what happens in a community which shares the same rather unique floor plan and design. Everything is connected by our shared hub.

There is always the option of NOT reading any particular post, and moving on, ya know? The "pain" of doing so seems slight IMO . . .

I am fine with everyone pointing the way on this . . .

Have a good weekend.

Peter

PS Marty thanks also for the campground heads up. We are hoping to get up that way this year, and will let you know if/when.

centennialman · 03-26-2016, 06:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OTRA15

Steve I am planning to upgrade the wheels and tires similar to what TCwheels did here in Post 72 (with details in later posts as I recall).

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f516...ml#post1563704

I have been collecting threads about the tire issues, so here are the links in case you are interested. Obviously the threads run the gamut of trailer sizes and uses. The most recent thread, along with the tire sub-forum, follows next:

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-148274.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438/

Other threads focusing on Michelin possibilities, mainly 16" but not exclusively, and wheels (not necessarily in chronological order -- there is lots of reading to do):

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-145883.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-147401.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...-a-127087.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f238...de-146508.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...de-146800.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...es-143822.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...ms-130350.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...s2-137278.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...xl-144555.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...res-69297.html
http://www.airforums.com/forums/f438...es-146825.html

Centramatics thread: http://www.airforums.com/forums/f465...ad-129161.html

After all the reading, I keep coming back to what TCwheels went with, which I believe is available in a current design Michelin M&S (mud and snow) tread.

I think the Defender M&S has replaced the previous models, but your tire dealer can probably give complete advice, including sizes and load rating. With our single axles, we need an "E" load rating IMO (only 2 tires to carry 5,000 total gross weight), with a speed rating well above 65 MPH. In the drop-down "Size" frame, however, I do not see the 225/75 size. Hmmmm . . .

https://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires...nder+LTX+M%2FS

Previous models for M&S:

http://www.michelinman.com/US/en/tir.../ltx-m-s.html#
http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/tir...19&irpid=10078
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....omCompare1=yes

These dealer sites have drop down menus/boxes with details about available sizes, and the load and speed ratings.

Confusing!

This is what I needed....thanks. I will read through them. I am inclined to stick with the 15 inch wheels because of the Tyron bands already being paid for.

OTRA15 · 03-26-2016, 07:01 AM

The only hitch, Steve, may be that the industry seems to moving away from 15" to 16" . I think it is the user "switz"" who has posted on this in other threads, but maybe someone else? The availability of Michelin 15" M&S in the load/speed ratings we need may be limited.

I would probably also stick with 15" except for the availability factor. Please let us know what you find.

Thanks,

Peter

TCwheels · 03-26-2016, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OTRA15;1767573renderit -- not sure about the "poor 20 footers" notion, or with the concept that separate threads would work well for this community. In my personal opinion, the freedom to post on various topics within this thread is a [I

strength [/I]not a fault. Obviously YMMV, and I have said a few times that starting another thread would be fine if people object. I just don't think these discussions are easily severable that's all. The same thing will happen all over again, because we tend to wander around to (mostly!) relevant sub-topics. That is what happens in a community which shares the same rather unique floor plan and design. Everything is connected by our shared hub..

I understand the logic of splitting, but agree with Peter. I enjoy the freedom to jump around within our thread. Plus I use the mobile ap almost exclusively and the search feature is, to be polite, clunky. With our mixed topic thread I just look at "participated" threads and know it's all here. Just my $.02

OTRA15 · 03-26-2016, 11:12 AM

Thanks TCwheels.

-- OT humor --

In honor of Easter, and to wander a bit further off-topic, do you know how to catch a unique rabbit?

Unique up on it.

How to catch a tame rabbit?

Tame way!

Laughter is good for the soul . . .

Have a good weekend and Happy Trails!

centennialman · 03-26-2016, 12:30 PM

Oh boy.....I have spent the last 5.5 hours reading and researching about tires, wheels, centramatics (which I had an loved on my old Airstream) and my brain is completely fogged up!! I am leaning towards the Michelin's, have found 15" ones that look like they would do the job and need to make some decisions on whether to upgrade to 16 inch wheels or not.

Does anyone know if the warranty on a new Airstream is in danger if we switch from 15 to 16 inch wheels/tires?

TerryC · 03-26-2016, 12:47 PM

I'm hoping that by the time we need new tires, Michelin will have the 15" Defender series available in our tire size, which would be perfect for the 15" wheels.
I think the Michelin Defender series is the tire the 16" people are moving to.
I don't want to be buying wheels when I have to go get tires.

centennialman · 03-26-2016, 02:31 PM

TerryC....I agree. If we can continue to use the 15" rims and get better tires such as Michelin Defender etc....., then, I can wait a bit. The Airstream is brand new. I haven't had time to check the dates on the GM's yet, but will do that.

CruizinDux · 03-26-2016, 02:41 PM

As diverse as the 20 footers threads can run, personally I think it's better that trying to follow a lot of separate threads. Also the threads I think are more relevant as most posters have the same 20' floor plan with a fairly short range of ages (considering the overall ages of AS's) and associated questions and often but apparently not always, the same equipment.

Just my 2 cents worth.

Peter, thanks for the humor...a little off topic, but it livens thing up none the less. This thread has a great variety of information, advice and friendships, and I enjoy the interaction.

All the best to everyone.

Bob

VinnyBoomer · 03-26-2016, 04:58 PM

I am having so much fun out here in America. Have seen so many things for the first time. Vinny is pulling like a champ and Boomer is so much fun, no stability issues even in some pretty high wind. All of you at home, get up, get out and lets do some camping.

CruizinDux · 03-26-2016, 10:38 PM

VinnyBoomer, Congrats on getting out so early. I suspect we're all chomping at the bit to de-winterize and get some road time in. We're pegged for 4 nights on the OR Coast..29 days but who's counting?

Any chance of you could post a pic of your rig?

Happy Trails

Bob

MaineStreamer · 03-26-2016, 10:50 PM

Do any of you use an Air Safe Hitch, as I have been reading about on Airstream Addicts Facebook page? Comments?
http://airsafehitch.com/category/air...vers/class-vi/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWqAVdtoli0

MaineStreamer · 03-26-2016, 10:57 PM

On the video from Colonial Airstream that I posted recently, the fellow said that one should repack wheel bearings every 3-5 thousand miles. Do you do this? That comment was the first I have heard of it. If not every 3-5 thousand miles, what repacking interval do you think is appropriate?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvZmrtZ1KGc

mazoolah · 03-27-2016, 06:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TCwheels

I understand the logic of splitting, but agree with Peter. I enjoy the freedom to jump around within our thread. Plus I use the mobile ap almost exclusively and the search feature is, to be polite, clunky. With our mixed topic thread I just look at "participated" threads and know it's all here. Just my $.02

When I stated this thread 2years ago,I never thought it would have this much longevity ! As said most of our rigs are late model and some of us are or were new to Airstreams and or rv's . So partly due to the size and partly due it being our shared rookie status ,we share some common interests .I realy enjoy the diverse topics ,they most times come back to the core interests of "our 20 foot community " . As the season starts for us ,my hope is more of us will meet at campgrounds and swap story's . This thread is great, but it would be better around a campfire ,and perhaps a cold one !