If snow driving is really an issue you should use the Hakkapelittas for all four. Especially since the Hankooks are not that good even for rain. Being able to steer and stop can be way more important than being able to go. Dennis
-----Original Message----- From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Don Hanson Sent: Tuesday, October 11, 2011 1:02 AM To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM Subject: New tires I am recently able to afford new tires for my van, since I've been driving all over, taking tiny little jobs on almost bald ones, it's time. So, I went to my local tire shops, trying to shop local and was really surprised. The same crummy Nankang tires that wore out quickly, but were cheap last year are now almost double at the local-owned Tire Factory franchise. " No dice, dude! " I don't have extra money to give you, neighbor. Then I went to Les Schawbb, a northwest franchise, usually quite reasonable and great service. Looking for some Nokians because I wanted really good snow tires. I have been driving year round on my last set, like them immensely for their traction and their handling and their durability. "Yes, we can get some shipped in, special order. $45 freight and $167 each...mounted and balanced....2 weeks.." Uh.....No thanks, Les..... So I called Peter at Van Cafe and got some Hakkapelittas coming for $128 (each) and $30 shipping (both).. I ordered some Hankooks for the front, again mail order online. I didn't use our list vendor because of shipping distances... I will mount and balance all these with my manual tire changing machine, left over from my racing days, after I first make an adapter to fit the odd-ball stock Vanagon 14" rims. Driving on worn tires....with a full load of tools and lumber, down a gusty interstate....not very responsible, but per$onal finance$ had me choosing gas OR tires, but not both... The local tire guys? They said they'd been seeing lots of long-time customers blanch when told the price of tires recently. Something about the cost of natural rubber commodity going through the roof in the Global economy.. |
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