As others have mentioned 235/40x19 tires are available from only a few manufacturers and are extremely pricey. After seeing discussions and chatting to one or two people I thought I'd try the 245/40x19 option on my 159TI TBI sedan. After shopping around I took my car to Motorsport Wheels & Tyres in Dandenong Sth, Vic late December and bought set of Kumho KU39 245/40x19 98Y for under $200/tyre fitted and balanced. Have only done few 100k's since but found them immediately much, much quieter and somewhat softer riding than ContiSports that were fitted as standard (which, incidentally wore out after 30,000ks of mostly easy and occasionaly moderate driving). No fouling of the wheel wells on full lock or over rough roads. I haven't had the car fully loaded since changing to these tyres (rarely is) but will be travelling 2 up with luggage to Qld and back from Melbourne over January so if no problems by end of that trip will have problem recommending this solution...
Same tyres as on my Spider, fantastic tyres......
Why the Kuhmos? Were they recommended by Motorsport as a quieter ride? Did they comment on wear?
I currently have the factory fit Pirelli Zero Neros and will be keen to see what others have to say on the "durability" of a select range of tyres for the "heavy" 159.
Yep -- I want to stick with PZero Nero (maybe GT) but there is usually much more competitive pricing with the 245s shared with HSVs than the 235s shared with Aston Martin. But I don't want cheaper tyres at the expense of relining the wheelarches. Following with interest.
Thanks for your interest. Have just done 3,500km over 3 weeks over all kinds of roads including the appalling Pacific Highway north of Kempsey to the Gold Coast in both directions without a problem. Hit couple of huge pot holes on that section at some speed which bottomed out the suspension on to the bump stops front & back with no wheel arch fouling trouble at all. Drove for over over an hour in monsoonal rain on the freeway around Coffs Harbour (large nos. of motorists pulling off the road due lack of visibility & flooding) hitting sizeable patches of standing water and felt totally secure. Again can only repeat how much quieter & softer riding they are. At this stage have no problem recommending these tyres although can't comment on wear at this stage (nothing really noticeable after 4,000+ km though which is more than 10% of what I got from those Continentals...).
245/40/19 is definitely the way to go. They are far cheaper and you get a wide choice of brands. I had a set of the new Pirelli P1 Cinturatos fitted by Kmart, with lifetime free rotation for $287 each and we are very pleased with them. They give a much more comfortable and quieter ride than the PZero Neros and Contis that were on the car when we got it. They have done 30,222km so far, with little noticeable wear, so we are more than happy.
My experience with a Q4 is that on standard springs and with Eibach Pro-Kit springs fitted there are no problems with rubbing. The Eibachs give a similar lack of ground clearance to the Ti springs. The car came on Federal Formoza tyres that the previous owner fitted in place of the P Zeros. I went back to 235/40/19 PZero Neros and had slightly better grip than the Federals. I'm now running 245/40/19 Hankook Ventus Evo 2 S1 K117. With spirited driving and a mix of -2 and then -1 degrees of negative camber, I wore through the inside edges of the fronts pretty quickly. I've fitted another two last Friday. They come in at $249 each fitted from Jax. They are probably on the soft side for most tastes, but I feel they are consequently give a fair bit more grip than the Pirellis.
The 245/40/19 tyres also cancel out the speedo error in the pre-Ti Q4. So the odometer reads low now.
I've now had a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 fitted in 245/40/19; made in Germany and OE for Porsche 911. Maybe I'm insensitive to tyres but I can't detect much difference from the PZero Neros in 235 as far as handling and ride goes. The steering is possibly slightly heavier but that 's in comparison to how it was with scrubbed out fronts.
The new ones are 98Y rated so guessing that even if the (indiscernibly) taller sidewalls might have offered more flex, that's been cancelled out by the stiffer construction.
Apparently it's in the wet that the Eagle F1s offer the most gains, but my Pirellis were fine in the wet anyway.
$889 in a three for the price of four deal incl. fitting at Goodyear Autocare in Croydon.
Quote from: blueblood1995 on January 26, 2015, 10:24:21 PM
I currently have the factory fit Pirelli Zero Neros and will be keen to see what others have to say on the "durability" of a select range of tyres for the "heavy" 159.
My OE PZero Neros have needed replacement for about the past three years according to everyone who's serviced the car (and who sell tyres). Finally replaced them at 27500km which according to the shop is "pretty normal" for 19 inch wheels, though having committed to the replacement they seemed to think the Pirellis weren't in the worst shape at the rear. Going up to 245 had to change them all anyway.
I think I'd possibly be happier with 18 inch Ti wheels.
BTW -- the OE 17 inch CSC3s on the front of my Benz are at 70000km. I have replacement CSC5s sitting in the garage but no need to fit them yet.
Quote from: kaleuclint on November 18, 2015, 08:33:03 AM
$889 in a three for the price of four deal incl. fitting at Goodyear Autocare in Croydon.
You did well on the price. Our 245/40/19 Pirelli Cinturato P1s have now done 40,000km and according to Kmart, will last another 10,000km before we need to replace them. I got the free lifetime 10,000 km rotation and balance deal with the tyres and I am sure that has helped. I will definitely get the same tyres again. That is the best mileage I have got out of any tyres on any car I have ever owned from memory.
Beaurepaires are also doing a 'three for the price of four' deal on Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 at the moment.
Very happy with mine. Massive grip, comfortable ride and can confirm owner reviews that rate them as outstanding in the wet. Recommended.
...and just keeping this topic bubbling along, I should point out that the biggest problem with finding tyres for the 159Ti is reconciling price with rating. There are tyres available that are both quality and priced right, but not necessarily at or above 96Y rated. I understand you can discuss this with your insurer (and who drives at 300km/h anyway?) but the car doesn't suddenly weigh less and 96Y is what it came with from the factory, so your policy may demand this.
Quote from: kaleuclint on February 08, 2016, 10:21:03 PM
(and who drives at 300km/h anyway?)
Well for my birthday once I did hire a Porsche 911 Turbo and hit the 300kmh mark on a downward slope on the Ipswich bypass . . . . . scared the f@*k out of me when I noticed the speedo !! :o
Baz
http://www.motormag.com.au/features/1601/how-to-do-300kmh-on-a-public-road/ (http://www.motormag.com.au/features/1601/how-to-do-300kmh-on-a-public-road/)
Now in the market for a set of 4 for my 2010 JTD Ti.
Replacing the OEM Pirelli Zero Nero GTs after just 40k.
Inside front wear no issue after having the alignment sorted. Great even wear across width.
Research so far...
Recommendation from several tyre dealers in 235/40 has been the Michelin Pilot Super Sport.
Class leading grip in dry and excellent wet weather traction.
Wear is outstanding for a performance tyre.
Good reviews on www.tyrereview.co.uk.
$390 per tyre best I can find.
Conti Sport Contact 3s @ $405 (although they have a 4 for 3 offer at the mo)
Bridgestone S001s @ $445 (the family wagon, 2006 Subaru Liberty 3.0, always clad in Bridgestone Potenza's due to great wear @ typically 60k to 70k but price is offputting)
Pirelli P Zero Nero GTs @ $385 (out of stock nationwide, Pirelli not expecting stock for at least another 3 months ALSO better tyres available for money ???)
Pirelli P7 Cinturatos @ $320
This sounds silly but it didn't feel right putting anything but Italian rubber on my beloved but having researched there are clearly better value-for-money tyres available and so it makes sense to find an alternative from the OEM... (or NOT depending on who you talk too?)
First question based purely on appearance (since the 159 is a thing of beauty not to be ruined by a terrible set of "shoes"!)
How do the 245/40s look on the rim in terms of height and width?
Assuming increased sidewall is not noticeable (4mm increase ??) BUT what about the width? Is the line from tyre to rim still "clean"?
Second question... what about the speedo?
I've always been a bit of stickler for running correct sizes. Hoping others can allay any fears.
Thanks to all in advance!
Pirelli is now Chinese owned.
I'd go for the Contis for the 4 for 3 offer. I have the R18s on mine - good grip.
Pirelli P Zero came 4th in the Motor tyre test this month.
Today it is raining in Melbourne. I can tell you the wet weather grip of the Eagle F1s is phenomenal. I find I am uncharacteristically driving my 159 much harder with the new rubber (because I can) and the rain makes no difference. Very different to the PZero Neros.
Quote from: kaleuclint on May 26, 2016, 05:40:35 PM
Today it is raining in Melbourne. I can tell you the wet weather grip of the Eagle F1s is phenomenal. I find I am uncharacteristically driving my 159 much harder with the new rubber (because I can) and the rain makes no difference. Very different to the PZero Neros.
Had the new 245/40 19 Conti Sport Contact 6s fitted at JAX Tyres, Preston this afternoon.
Of course a quieter and more compliant ride was immediately noticeable and after a quick sprint on the Eastern Fwy in the rain I could tell the Contis were more sure footed than the Pirellis ever wear. Unsure why? Perhaps more recent technology, a different groove pattern, the Conti reputation for wet weather performance, a different rubber compound or all of the above?
$885 for x4 incl. fitting.
What I'm most interested in now is how well these will wear in comparison to the Pirellis.
Stay tuned! I'll be back in a year or two!
Quote from: blueblood1995$885 for x4 incl. fitting.
That is within $4 of what I paid! I just can't understand people shelling out $1300> on a set of rubber when with some shopping around there are the highest quality tyres to be found at very reasonable prices. Problem is that the websites that are supposed to deliver that service come up with the $1300> options.
eBay can be even cheaper of course (and delivery always next day freighted overnight Sydney-Melbourne from my experience). There is of course the obligatory whinge from the tyre fitter, but the problem is that he quotes too high as well, and he doesn't have the time to scour eBay for bargains.
There was a blue 159 on display at the Lygon Street Festival yesterday - is the owner out there?.
Car was fitted with 19" wheels and 245/35 tyres.
I didn't get a chance to chat with owner.
No dramas fitting these tyres to standard(?) 19" wheels?
Are the wheels fitted to this car the "standard" 159 Ti 19" width.
I'm investigating the possibility of fitting 245/35 tyres on my 159 Ti in lieu of the standard 235/40.
Regards,
Colin
There are better tyres around than the PZero Nero. The Michelin PSS is clearly a superior tyre performance wise (possibly outperforming the car...). It's also priced at a premium generally and anecdotally wears faster. My compromise was to consider PS3s (so nearly bought these). I've had Continental CSC3 and CSC5 on other cars -- the former were often fitted new to the Ti and my experiences with both have been excellent.
Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 is another OEM choice for the Ti. I can't recommend them highly enough. I was offered 245/35 but the sidewalls are narrow enough already for mine.
As for the 245/40 fitment, as per this thread there is no reason not to fit them. I think I actually prefer them!
Now -- as it happens I did happen to put a dent in my rear wheelarch and the metal DID foul on the sidewall (just). Possibly would have happened with 235s anyway... I reached under and pulled it out. No issue. And now fixed!!
I'll post a photo so you can make up your own mind about the aesthetic. Remember we are talking 10mm of tread and about 3mm of additional diameter.
(http://i1169.photobucket.com/albums/r502/kaleu1963/131f5ee8-2e8e-437c-80a6-e5587f92af1a.jpg)
[EDIT: Photobucket is playing up so PM me your email Colin and I can send you more. The tyre does not extend beyond the metal.]
After much research I'm very happy with my 245s and I wouldn't pay any extra for 235s.
Bought a set of Conti CSC3 in the correct 235/40/19 96Y a few weeks ago for my wife's Ti $320ea, which i thought was pretty decent and correct for the car.
PM sent
Reviving an old topic, but once again I have been the recipient of some superb service from one of "the cousins" in Sydney.
This time it's Tempe Tyres who delivered new widepack rear rubber for my Benz to Melbourne within 24 hours of order. Conti Premium Contact 6 in Y-rating for $209 each. Made in France during April. Buying via eBay rather than their website meant free delivery too.
Didn't know that CSC5 had been superseded.
http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Continental/Premium-Contact-6.htm (http://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Continental/Premium-Contact-6.htm)
They don't have these to fit the 159 ti at present, and my Eagle F1s will be probably be good for another six years. When the time comes though I know where to look.
;D
Interesting that when I purchased my Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2s there was some prior correspondence regarding the (very important to me) origin of the tyres. As with most things automotive, "GERMANY" is the correct answer! ;D
Goodyear in Croydon seems to have remembered our exchange in promoting 245/40/19 98Y rubber in Asymmetric 3:
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Goodyear-245-40R19-98Y-XL-F1-Asymmetric-3-GERMANY-245-40-19-FREE-FITTING/172385222745?_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D46669%26meid%3Da6582cf5d031403ab06c9890e0fbb90a%26pid%3D100678%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D9%26sd%3D182748978868&_trksid=p2481888.c100678.m3607&_trkparms=pageci%253Ac1599564-9469-11e7-9f0f-74dbd1806f8a%257Cparentrq%253A6073dc4815e0a860e6de6739fffeb5f0%257Ciid%253A1 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Goodyear-245-40R19-98Y-XL-F1-Asymmetric-3-GERMANY-245-40-19-FREE-FITTING/172385222745?_trkparms=aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D46669%26meid%3Da6582cf5d031403ab06c9890e0fbb90a%26pid%3D100678%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D9%26sd%3D182748978868&_trksid=p2481888.c100678.m3607&_trkparms=pageci%253Ac1599564-9469-11e7-9f0f-74dbd1806f8a%257Cparentrq%253A6073dc4815e0a860e6de6739fffeb5f0%257Ciid%253A1)
FWIW, I had similar issues finding 235/40/19 in correct speed rating that were sensibly priced.
I fitted some 245/40/19 - Hankook Ventus S1 EVO2. These cost me $880 fitted, balanced and aligned to my spec from my local Euro mechanic. They were very highly recommended by the VW/Audi chaps who did my stage 1 tune.
They are very quiet (in fact, about the quietest tyre I have ever used), grip very well in dry and wet, and wear very well indeed.
I had considered Pirelli again but my friend runs some on his car and he got just over 20k km on them before he had to replace them. He did say they grip better than the Hankooks but, they are noisier and much softer.
Quote from: blueblood1995 on May 13, 2016, 02:31:10 PM
Now in the market for a set of 4 for my 2010 JTD Ti.
Replacing the OEM Pirelli Zero Nero GTs after just 40k.
Inside front wear no issue after having the alignment sorted. Great even wear across width.
Research so far...
Recommendation from several tyre dealers in 235/40 has been the Michelin Pilot Super Sport.
Class leading grip in dry and excellent wet weather traction.
Wear is outstanding for a performance tyre.
Good reviews on www.tyrereview.co.uk.
$390 per tyre best I can find.
Conti Sport Contact 3s @ $405 (although they have a 4 for 3 offer at the mo)
Bridgestone S001s @ $445 (the family wagon, 2006 Subaru Liberty 3.0, always clad in Bridgestone Potenza's due to great wear @ typically 60k to 70k but price is offputting)
Pirelli P Zero Nero GTs @ $385 (out of stock nationwide, Pirelli not expecting stock for at least another 3 months ALSO better tyres available for money ???)
Pirelli P7 Cinturatos @ $320
This sounds silly but it didn't feel right putting anything but Italian rubber on my beloved but having researched there are clearly better value-for-money tyres available and so it makes sense to find an alternative from the OEM... (or NOT depending on who you talk too?)
First question based purely on appearance (since the 159 is a thing of beauty not to be ruined by a terrible set of "shoes"!)
How do the 245/40s look on the rim in terms of height and width?
Assuming increased sidewall is not noticeable (4mm increase ??) BUT what about the width? Is the line from tyre to rim still "clean"?
Second question... what about the speedo?
I've always been a bit of stickler for running correct sizes. Hoping others can allay any fears.
Thanks to all in advance!
Conti Sport Contact 6s replaced just the other day after only 26k. Won't be purchasing Contis again but as I've been told by some Contis are generally softer and designed for "better " European roads.
Replaced with the Pirelli Dragon Sport still in a 245/40 R19. $250 per tyre from Bridgestone.
Will be interesting to see how these "designed for Asia/Australia market" tyres hold up.
Regards
I used to be an "Alfa must have Pirellis" adherent. Just doesn't make sense following experiences with PZero Nero and Rosso. Glad to see the end of Selenia too, just quietly.
For me it'll always be Michelin / Continental / Pirelli / Goodyear (+ Metzeler for two-wheelers) though. Next week I'll get around to having my CPC6s fitted to the wagon.
I fitted Michelin PS4s (correct size 235/40/19") here in Australia and find them rather noisy. So when I had to replace my Michelin PSS on my Brera in Singapore I fitted the new Pirelli P Zero 4s (also correct size - I paid the premium as the 245/40s look waaay too big in those arches even though Ive had them in the past).
Ive read road tests that the PZ4s are line ball with the PS4s in wet and dry but the big difference is that Pirelli worked on road noise and the results are amazing (apparently dB lower by 3 db). So in summary I prefer the PZ4 over the PS4 based on noise. Both have excellent road holding (wet roadholding is critical in Sodden Singapore).
Cheers
Simon
Quote from: torquemeister on November 23, 2017, 10:02:37 PM
(wet roadholding is critical in Sodden Singapore).
Have you been playing up on the PIE, Simon? I'm not sure I've ever shifted into fourth in SG...
My Conti CPC6s are now fitted on my Benz and suit the car perfectly as they are unnoticeable. No noise, no harshness, no issues in the wet or under cornering / braking. They just do the job.
Well after more 40,000klm of use I've finally had to replace the P Zero Nero's.
Opted for these new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 235/40/19. Early days yet and comparing them to 2 year old and very tired Pirellis is academic, however they are definately noisier! On the hand they seem to be a bit more communicative. Wet weather performance also seems a bit better to what I remember the Pirellis were like when new.
Hi All, My 08/09 159 JTS Ti Sedan 2.2 six speed is almost ready for its third set of tyres. The original owner replaced the first set of Pirellis at 20,000km at a cost of nearly $2,000-!! On the second set, now Pirelli Cinturato P7, I might just get to 45,000km. So at an average of about 22,000km per set I wonder what we are paying for in Australia. It obviously isn't durability. Goodness know what tyre life Europeans would get at motorway speeds. My 159 has probably never seen 130kph. I will at changeover time not be paying $400/tyre. The Kumho option sounds like a proposition to me. Is that 245 size on the tyre placard and if not would the wider tyre be legal and acceptable to the insurer? Jim
The tyres might run faster on Euro motorways Jim, but the road surfaces in general are much better than in Australia. I can't remember ever needing new tyres!
I had P7s on my 2.2 159 because I wouldn't shell out for PZero Nero. I thought they were good but I sold the car well before they needed replacement.
Hi All, Just FYI. After much research of my own in Adelaide I decided to buy Pirelli Cinturato P7's, 235. These were fitted, balanced & aligned for $1312- at BJTM, Gouger St Adel. The main reason for my choice was to avoid any disappointment with possible harshness, from scalloping on cheap tyres or a conflict with the insurance co over the larger 245 size, which do have a different diameter. In the end I figured that despite the short life I'd stick with the known quantity for the sake of perhaps a couple of hundred dollars. Jim
On my Brera I replaced the stock 235/45/18 with 245/40/18. Tyres are Michelin Pilot Sport 4... Can I take a moment to say how amazing these tyres are. Very grippy, very quiet, and very comfortable. Just waiting for the test of time now on longevity.
One disadvantage I noticed with getting wider tyres is that the extra 5mm that sticks out of the fender (front tyres), whilst small, seems to kick more dirt onto the bottom corner of the car. I've noticed since installing the tyres that there are more chips a day scratches in that area... And while there's the plastic sticker protecting it, there are exposed areas of paint which were chipped for the first time. I was shocked as I've never had chips there. Anyway I'll keep watch and may have to add more clear vinyl if it persists.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'm with Skypilot on going 245s.
Saved me many dollars and I cannot see ANY drawback.
I went Hankook Ventus S1 Evo2 on my Ti.
Kuhmo 245/40 r19. I put these on my 2.4 TI and they're fine if you don't put heavy things in the boot...unfortunately. They're nice and quiet, but I'm going to have to look at how to get a little bit more clearance in the tail. BTW I've still got the Pzeros on the front. about 10K left on them. anyone got some adjustable shocks they'd like to sell? :-)
As per my intro post Friday, fitted Michelin PS4's , mainly by lack of choice and time, compounded By the necessity to complete rego/plate changeover by C.O.B . They replaced the Hankook Ventus 245 40 19's , $1435 fitted balanced . No one offering 4-4-3 deal.
The Hankooks were by measuring the tread Block depth, approx 20% worn. Though all 4 inside edges scrubbed. I replaced Lower control arms , on purchasing car and prior to tyre swap. I might look at swapping over bushes to poly
I got sick of replacing tyres from inner wear and arguing with tyre places about camber and hearing that their guy had been fitting tyres for decades, so he knew better, only to revisit inner edge tyre wear. That was when each tyre was over $400 and there were limited options for the R18. I replaced all bushes with poly' and have never had a problem or had to replace a set of tyres since. That was x 3-4 years ago, but I do less than x 5000k annually. I'm on Pirelli Cinturato and they hang on really well, no noticeable noise from the tyres, but the poly bushes aren't exactly quiet. Big improvement on handling from the poly bushes though. Once the OEM ones got to about 80-90000k, the car didn't handle as well, but the poly bushes changed that. Mine are Powerflex from about 2017, but there have been upgrades since
Stu
Ive had both 245/40 and 235/35 on both Breras Ive owned. Fitted to the Prodrive S rims. You wont have a problem with the wheel arch liners but theres been a lot of comments about inner tyre wear. I had this in the past but since last wheel alignment (which was done to the Prodrive Brera S spec - not standard setup) wear is minimised.
AlfaOwner has a lot of discussion about this. It seems that 0 Toe-In is the way to go on these cars to offset this issue. My car has the full Prodrive suspension setup (lowered like the TI but with revised Bilstein shocks and coils.
Ive used both P Zeros and Michelin Pilot Super Sport. both excellent tyres but soft compound meaning early wear. The Micheline PSS in my opinion are noisier than the PZS tyres and I will revert to Pirelli next changeover.
Here in Tassie its about AWD, slimy uneven icy roads so will not compromise on handling and safety for a little more wear.
Zero toe-in a must.
Looking for a new set now, and Pilot Super Sport seems very reasonably priced for something "fitted to Ferrari 599". I gather the trade-off is that they won't last! Does anyone have an actual mileage figure for these on a 159??
Otherwise it'll be more Eagle F1s, but v.5 or 3 in lieu of the v.2s on the car.
Recently swapped out a hodge podge of 245/40 R19 on my 159 Ti to 235/45 R19 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx 050. Amazing difference. Car feels much more responsive. I definitely recommend sticking to 235 measurement. 245/40 is definitely cheaper, but to me the difference was very noticeable in this car.
I have the Kumho's too and no problem after 13,000kms.
From what I understand (don't quote me) they are like a cheaper version of Pirellis. So, not quite so good of course, but better than many others.
They take me around the roundabouts down this way, in the wet, at a good speed. Just saying... ;D
How often do you folks find yourself pumping up your tyres?
If I go in to get my wheels re-balanced soon, would it be worth asking them to swap the tyres around from front to back, and vice versa?
Quote from: Maltalfisti on January 15, 2021, 11:23:20 PM
If I go in to get my wheels re-balanced soon, would it be worth asking them to swap the tyres around from front to back, and vice versa?
All manufacturers recommend rotating car tyres regularly to maximise their usefulness, including Alfa.
I am sure the tyre place would be the experts in this, maybe ask them and let us know what they say.
Hopefully it will be useful info, and not biased towards just selling you something new
Good point, thanks. I'll give them a ring tomorrow... 8)
Alternatively, if you are happy with the tyres you already have on your 159, you can just buy new tyres two at a time... :D If the new ones go on the front, you're rotating them (kind of) anyway. The 'problem' is when they all wear evenly like mine do.
I can't rotate the tyres on my Mercedes, but I can tell you this: both fronts and rears are a lot cheaper than 159 rubber. Try $112 delivered for a Conti CSC5 (OE) front.
Why can't you rotate (different sizes and rotational?)
That said, I've managed to rotate a set of tyres only once in 35yr motoring (lazy, no impact gun)
In regards to tyre rotation don't be like me and couldn't be bothered as my recent experience with my 156 JTS resulted in nearly getting stranded with a flat tyre caused by wear on inner edge (out of sight out of mind). Anyway all good replaced both fronts with Pirelli Dragon sport 215/45R17 91wXL and front wheel alignment for $400.
Quote from: bonno on January 29, 2021, 10:37:46 AM
caused by wear on inner edge
This would indicate your Front Upper Arms need replacing.
Thanks Baz, I will make a point to check it out, as the tyre place did not mention anything.
Quote from: Craig_m67 on January 29, 2021, 09:17:44 AM
Why can't you rotate (different sizes and rotational?)
Yes (widepack) and no. Interestingly the spare is a full size alloy front, so it
can go on the rear and on either side.
My Alfa does have rotational tyres.
Quote from: bonno on January 29, 2021, 10:37:46 AM
In regards to tyre rotation don't be like me and couldn't be bothered as my recent experience with my 156 JTS resulted in nearly getting stranded with a flat tyre caused by wear on inner edge (out of sight out of mind). Anyway all good replaced both fronts with Pirelli Dragon sport 215/45R17 91wXL and front wheel alignment for $400.
Good price, I was once quoted $1200 for all four Pirellis - but that was for the 19" Ti.
Just remember diameter + aspect ratio + tread width is not the total equation. The other very important bit is "98Y" or higher.
Quote from: Alfatango on January 08, 2021, 04:42:36 PM
I got the Hankook Ventus S1 EVOs and am very happy with them.
Recently replaced the front 2 for Pirellis p7 and they are a class above. Much stickier, more feedback through the steering wheel and more responsive to inputs. Wet performance very good as well.
Got a screw through one of the fronts with the hankook so decided to replace the spare wheel so if it happens at a hill climb than I can still finish the day.
I agree with you there Tango. I've had Pirellis for several years and always liked them. I had to replace all x 4 tyres and I came across a deal on Gumtree that had my wheels & Bridgestones with about 90% tread as a deal. I had a fair bit of gutter rash on my wheels from x 12 + years of ownership, so I did the deal. I used to like the car when I first bought it as demo and it had Bridgestones then. Having just had them all replaced, balanced and wheel alignment done I can say they aren't even close to the Pirellis, when it comes to connecting with the road. They hang on, but the smooth, sticky traction & feedback has gone. I'm definitely going back to Pirellis
Stu
Given they were delivered for under $100ea., I bought another pair of CSC5s for my Mercedes. I suspect I will never need them. I've never run these on an Alfa but agree they are brilliant tyres.
Thinking I might go Michelin Pilot Sport 4 for my 159 Ti TBi (stock rims) unless someone has a better idea? I think the going rate is about $300 a corner for the 245/40 R19 98Y and there's a $100 Michelin rebate for 4. Any better options? My priorities are grip, quiet, durability in that order.
I'm confused by the post about CSC5s delivered under $100, I presume that's a smaller/more common size?
Quote from: kaleuclint on July 06, 2021, 06:20:32 PM
Given they were delivered for under $100ea., I bought another pair of CSC5s for my Mercedes. I suspect I will never need them. I've never run these on an Alfa but agree they are brilliant tyres.
So just WHERE did you get them for under $100??? ???
It's what I ran on my 156 till they were superseded by the CSC6
Continental 225/45R17 91Y ContiSportContact 5
https://www.ebay.com.au/usr/rolan-australia (https://www.ebay.com.au/usr/rolan-australia)
$232 for the pair, but then had one of those 'get more money off' things you add at checkout.
So $197.20 for two, with free delivery.
We could go for a bulk buy, but know I baulk around the $900 mark. Hence happy to buy and stockpile.
Well after assuming Bob Jane would rip me off, they ended up being the cheapest (other places had similar prices but then tacked on $200 for delivery at checkout). I got a quote for set of 4 x 245/40ZR19 98Y for $1080 fitted. Since the previous owner had fitted junk Chinese made tyres (presumably because he didn't intend to keep the car) I am really looking forward to the difference.
That is a phenomenon I will never understand, and it happens a lot. If the used car I am looking at is fitted with Wind Harmony Excellar GTs, the first thing I'll do is factor the cost of a set of 'proper' replacement tyres and inject that price reduction into the negotiation. More likely is I'll wonder what quality oil is in the engine? And I walk away...
Quote from: kaleuclint on July 22, 2021, 08:37:51 PM
More likely is I'll wonder what quality oil is in the engine?
Chinese oil? ???
http://www.sinopec.com/listco/en/products_service/lubricants/auto_lube/gasoline_eng_o/20161114/news_20161114_369168539161.shtml (http://www.sinopec.com/listco/en/products_service/lubricants/auto_lube/gasoline_eng_o/20161114/news_20161114_369168539161.shtml)
Could be fine for all I know.
Just found out Junior has fitted a set of Nankang semi-slicks to his road-going track car. Aren't these known as "ditchfinders" over on alfaowner??
Quote from: kaleuclint on July 23, 2021, 07:16:44 PM
Just found out Junior has fitted a set of Nankang semi-slicks to his road-going track car. Aren't these known as "ditchfinders" over on alfaowner??
Again, "What could possibly go wrong?" ::)
Quote from: kaleuclint on July 23, 2021, 07:16:44 PM
Just found out Junior has fitted a set of Nankang semi-slicks to his road-going track car. Aren't these known as "ditchfinders" over on alfaowner??
Mate has run Nankang ARs before and did very well for the $, they did go hard fairly quickly though. Generally people who run semi slicks on the streets naturally gravitate towards ditches no matter the tire....
FWIW my set of Pilot Sport 4S on the 159ti have about 50% left on the fronts, 90% on the rears after 20,000km. Front camber adjustment arms were done maybe 3000k ago, camber -0.50 . Fantastic tire, but I think the 159 weight just eats away at everything.
If you can get 40,000km out of Pilot Sport 4s, I'm having them next. That's over six years of motoring in my car...
fellas I'm sorry I let you down, I passed on the nitrogen inflation which was offered to me "because I drive around town a lot" ...
Quote from: MattK on July 28, 2021, 10:08:54 AM
fellas I'm sorry I let you down, I passed on the nitrogen inflation which was offered to me "because I drive around town a lot" ...
Huh? ???
Yeah I got the pitch, "so do you mostly drive around town?" "Yes," I said. "So that means I'll probably fill these tyres with nitrogen then." "No thanks, I'm fine with regular air."
Quote from: Alfatango on August 01, 2021, 05:43:51 PM
The back story is, I had a few wines during lock downs while watching endurance racing and got too trigger happy on ebay.
And also ordered way too much more wine? ;D
Did about 650km across the weekend on generally good surfaces, the Michelins were quieter and absolutely sure footed compared to the crap tyres on there previously. Only a little rain to see how they were in the wet but it felt much the same as the dry. Very happy with them overall, made the driving quite relaxing in a way that felt completely in control.
Agreed, a HUGE difference.
Also at one point my partner said to me "is that our engine or someone else's that I can smell burning?" so I welcomed her to the mindset of the Alfa driver. (to be fair we were about 10km from the place where one of the hoses came unclipped from the turbo and we had to limp home for an hour and a half)
Quote from: MattK on August 02, 2021, 01:01:46 PM
"is that our engine or someone else's that I can smell burning?"
It's called "Deja Vu". ;)
Quote from: MattK on August 02, 2021, 10:19:17 AM
Did about 650km across the weekend on generally good surfaces, the Michelins were quieter and absolutely sure footed compared to the crap tyres on there previously. Only a little rain to see how they were in the wet but it felt much the same as the dry. Very happy with them overall, made the driving quite relaxing in a way that felt completely in control.
Hi Matt I had Michelin PSS fitted to my Prodrive 19" rims and replaced recently with P Zeros. We have a lot of coarse pitch roads ehre in Tassie and I can confirm that the P Zeros are much quieter than the Michelins.
Quote from: kaleuclint on July 26, 2021, 11:28:06 PM
If you can get 40,000km out of Pilot Sport 4s, I'm having them next. That's over six years of motoring in my car...
I managed 36K km out of my last set of PS4's.
I just put on a fresh set I was so impressed, lovely silent, #hangyontractiongivingthings, lovely
(You may get even more, as mine goes flat out everywhere and lives in D)
Having been informed my Eagle F1s are knackered (though EVERY mechanic that sells tyres tells me this at every visit...), I see that factoring a $100 cashback deal from Michelin I can get a set of four PS4s for $269 each from my local Bob Jane. This is the same as what my 'go-to' supplier Tempe Tyres charges before freight, and I assume fitting at Bob Jane is free?
Anyone aware of a better deal?
That's pretty much exactly the deal I got. Be aware that the fitting is free but includes only wheel balancing, not wheel alignment which is ~$150 extra. I'm still very happy with the tyres.
Quote from: MattK on October 01, 2021, 02:48:09 PM
That's pretty much exactly the deal I got. Be aware that the fitting is free but includes only wheel balancing, not wheel alignment which is ~$150 extra. I'm still very happy with the tyres.
Out of interest @MattK, what's the country of origin for your set?
Sorry for the delay - I think they were made in Malaysia but I'd have to check to be sure.
Quote from: Alfatango on August 01, 2021, 05:43:51 PM
I tried the Dunlop Sp Sport and they have high grip levels but are pretty hard and a fair bit of road noise.
So far I would say this is the order I have tried on the alfa:
1. Pirelli p7
2. Continental C5
3. Hankook Ventus Evo
4. Dunlop Sp Sport
5. Bridgestone Potenza S001
The back story is, I had a few wines during lock downs while watching endurance racing and got too trigger happy on ebay.
I can definetelty recommend going 245/40/19!
Updated order:
1. Michelin PS4
2. Continental C6
3. Pirelli p7
4. Continental C5
5. Goodyear F1 directional
5. Hankook Ventus Evo
6. Dunlop Sp Sport
7. Bridgestone Potenza S001
A few months on I remain very very happy with the PS4 245/40/19s. Driving feels a lot more fluent and I haven't had a second of doubt that they would hold on, hard braking in the wet etc.
I suspect they may be wearing more quickly, but perhaps it's because the inner treads have very faint crosscuts even when new.
(https://images.cdn.circlesix.co/image/2/1200/630/5/uploads/posts/2017/02/6dc388dfafe5f29277447b9253e036db.jpg)
also I remembered to check and they were made in Thailand, not Malaysia
Might be due for a new set of tyres before next year.
However, we're going to be staying near Cradle Mountain (Tasmania) in winter for a few days. And no, I don't have a Q4 – just the standard 2.2 JTS which I hear is usually pretty crummy in the snow.
So, suggestions for good 19" tyres that might do me better in the snow? Can we get winter tyres here, like the folks in Canada?
...Edit: Or might it be worth temporarily swapping the 19" wheels for a smaller wheel that can accomodate snow-chains? Has anybody done this on their Ti?
Does anyone have experience with Conti Premium Contact 6 on their 159ti?? I have these on my Mercedes and they are fine on that, but wondering if they are 'sporting' enough for the Alfa??
Alternatively interested in any feedback on PZero All Season (AS+MS). I had P6000 mud+snow tyres on my Saab and they were great, but Saabs like the slush anyway.
I have Conti C5 on my 3.2 Ti , great tyres plenty of grip especially in these wet days, C6 are slightly softer compound similar to Michelin PS4s so may wear faster.
Seems plenty of people on alfaowner fit CPC6 and are happy they did. Our roads are worse than UK ones...
About to pull the trigger.
And if anyone wants new PS4s in 245/40/18 I've just listed a set in the Buy/Swap/Sell thread. Bought for Junior's girlfriend's Veloster Turbo but they're too wide!
Having checked my Mercedes that I could swear was on CPC6s; I now know it runs CSC5s all round with two more spare fronts stored in the garage...
CPC6 currently available in 245/40/19 98Y from the cousins in Sydney for $170.00 each on eBay.
The wifes current model Giulietta Veloce comes fitted with CPC6"AR". Very good in the wet and relatively quiet.
Jeez. Saw my mechanic yesterday who advised me the Michelin PS4s are heavily worn after <2 years and maybe 20000 km, and that the fronts had scrubbed inner edges almost down to the canvas. Not happy. I could have sworn I paid for an alignment at Bob Jane, and paid attention to the advice to get zero toe for the 159's geometry, but either I screwed up or they did, it would seem. He rotated fronts to rear and vice versa, and now I am tyre shopping again.
Could I have caused this by going slightly over wide? I bought 245/40R19 (98Y) for my Ti on stock rims.
Looks like I can get Pirelli "Powergy XL" (ugly name) for about $220 a corner after cash back. Would that be a bad idea, does anyone think?
Why did you want to go wider than Alfa engineered/recommended?
No idea if it caused the dodgy wear, but they don't just pull the tyre sizes out of the air over a coffee, some designer argued with an engineer and an accountant ignored them and chose/paid.
I say this as somebody who put a Sud into a tree 35yrs ago as I put wider tyres than recommended and it aqua planned in the wet. Admittedly, something you're unlikely to do (aqua plane) in a (farkin lardy) 159.
I swear by Michelin PS4's.. perhaps get the alignment re-checked.
I've put 25K km on my current set, all flat out (GQV lives in D) with just one rotation.. they're fine.
Needs an oil change though, and a wash (Bazz!) 😊
I'm not washing it, I do believe that's what your teenage son is for . . . . 8)
Good point Craig, I guess I just liked the wider look and the thought of a larger contact patch. It may well have been a problem with wear. I'll look at the correct size!
Anyone got opinions on the Powergys? The PS4s are way more expensive at the moment (like $70 a tyre) and I'm not anxious to go back after such a short life.
Anyone tried the new Michelin PS 5's? 235× 40 x19 96Y - $416ea
245x40x19 98Y $352ea
Any problems using 245s?
If you're looking for a good value tyre alternative that still offers good road/handling traits but better durability, try Continental MaxContact MC6s.
I've fitted Contis to most of my Alfas over the last few years. Not cheap, but cheaper than Michelins or Pirellis.
And if you shop around, good chance you'll find someone doing a 4-for-3 deal (not matter what brand you're after).
Looking at Pirelli Pzero PZ4s, German review says better than Michein PS5's & Michelin PS4S's.seem to be much cheaper with buy 3 get 4 deal EOFY sales & in correct size as well
Replacing Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2s with... 3s. Very happy with these in 245/40 made in Germany, presumably still as OEM for Porsche.
Tempe Tyres in Sydney can now despatch these directly to McKinnon Tyres in Melbourne under a preferred fitting arrangement.
After 2 mth wait,set of Continental contact sport 7s have arrived in correct size 235x40x19 96Ys,will be interesting to compare against previous contisport 5s, much cheaper than Michelin PS4S's
Heads up, MyCar have 50% off Pirellis if you book today. I got a set of the Powergy for about 700 including an alignment, a lot cheaper than the options I'd been looking at.
EDIT: ugh, their stupid site correctly identified my car as a 159 Ti, but specified R18 for the tyres, I have contacted them to fix it to 235/40R19. Hoping they won't upcharge me.
aaaand of course when I specified the right size they were unable to supply any Pirellis