Tyre wear please help

[Urko]

Hi, I have been replacing my rear tyres more often than my undies :)
Ute is lowered (king springs sssl + Monroe GT shocks)
Bought MAXXIS, done 15.000 km and there is almost no tread left (this was my 3 set of tyres, done 45k so far)...normal driving
Been doing wheel alignment every 5.000 km, checking tyre pressure etc...it doesn't help
Front tyres are fine the only problem is with rear ones. It looks they wear even across.
There must be something wrong because this is not normal. I have been asking around what to do and everybody is telling me that this is because my ute is lowered...
I am from Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise)...Does anyone know where would be the best place to go???
Do I need camber kit...

Thanks
Uros

[Drizt]

If it wasn't even wear I'm guessing it would be easy to work out what is off. But the fact it is even means I would normally say to much ... :driving: wheel spin ;)

[Urko]

If it wasn't even wear I'm guessing it would be easy to work out what is off. But the fact it is even means I would normally say to much ... :driving: wheel spin ;)

he he I wish that would be the reason :) :nos:

[Wonky]

Like you I also have a MY9.5 SSV ute which was on SSSL/Monroes from the first day I picked it up new, but I also had 20x9 & 20x10 DTM Shine rims fitted with Kumho KU31 tyres, 245 front and 275 rear. Are you running stock rims?

My first set of fronts did over 50,000km and first rears did 25,000 and ended up slightly more worn on the inside due to the fact they had extra camber so I didn’t keep scrubbing (guards fully rolled). My second set of KU31 rears did 30,000km and I’m now on my 3rd set. Somewhere during the time the second set were on I changed to H&R coilovers which I suspect may have contributed to the extra mileage as my driving style (99% grandpa :D) didn’t change.

There’s about an inch of tuck on the rear so whilst it’s low it’s not outrageously low. Given your wear is even I’m afraid I’m tempted to agree with Drizt …………. :D

VEs should not need a camber kit from all I’ve read and heard.

[Urko]

Hi Wonky, yea still running stock rims...
What you guys think about Pedders XA Extreme coilovers???What else should I get, I am prepared to spend few bucks...

[Drizt]

Harrop KW Street Comfort coil overs or H&R coil overs.

Avoid the pedders stuff as they have high failure rates.

[offshore]

Or DMS but there expensive $5600 for the 50mm and adjustable tops to suite VE VF but good. And there is a story about Pedders copying DMS but we dont want to go there! And DMS quality is way above Pedders.

[Urko]

Or DMS but there expensive $5600 for the 50mm and adjustable tops to suite VE VF but good. And there is a story about Pedders copying DMS but we dont want to go there! And DMS quality is way above Pedders.

hmmm trying to find Harrop shop on Gold Coast...

[Drizt]

Or DMS but there expensive $5600 for the 50mm and adjustable tops to suite VE VF but good. And there is a story about Pedders copying DMS but we dont want to go there! And DMS quality is way above Pedders.

Been told by someone who uses the 50mm that they would not recommend them for street use. 40mm is more suitable.

[offshore]

Been told by someone who uses the 50mm that they would not recommend them for street use. 40mm is more suitable.

Yea its not really a streetable setup its very stiff it depends on the springs though you can customise them they have 4 ways as well which is ideal but takes an expert to set them up you have slow speed bump and rebound and high speed bump and rebound 32 adjustments for all 4 and then the tops can be moved to adjust camber and caster.

For me the 4 ways are ideal for street events like targa and the alpine etc because you want to set the car up for heaps of variation which is harder then a smooth race track.

[Urko]

Has anyone been to Mermaid Suspension Centre yet?

[Drizt]

Yea its not really a streetable setup its very stiff it depends on the springs though you can customise them they have 4 ways as well which is ideal but takes an expert to set them up you have slow speed bump and rebound and high speed bump and rebound 32 adjustments for all 4 and then the tops can be moved to adjust camber and caster.

For me the 4 ways are ideal for street events like targa and the alpine etc because you want to set the car up for heaps of variation which is harder then a smooth race track.

To be honest, why would you bother? Many many cars far more suitable to such events. Commodores are shopping trolleys not race cars.

[Drizt]

Reread it and it sounds harsher than it did in my head. No offence meant.

[Urko]

I think thos thread is not about my issue anymore...

[lmoengnr]

I think thos thread is not about my issue anymore...

I think your issue is with having a heavy right foot.

[white lie]

^^^ Can be the only real solution if everything else is as you say and the "even tyre wear" is truly even.
A camber kit or more adjustment in your suspension is only going to fix uneven wear (even then, it may not fully rectify the issue if the ute is real low).

[offshore]

To be honest, why would you bother? Many many cars far more suitable to such events. Commodores are shopping trolleys not race cars.

Yea the only reason I was thinking of it was precisely for that reason. Yea you could take an EVO 10 and race that in a targa event and be more successful but it would be great to have a nice V8 commodore in the event for a bit difference.

[Drizt]

Yea the only reason I was thinking of it was precisely for that reason. Yea you could take an EVO 10 and race that in a targa event and be more successful but it would be great to have a nice V8 commodore in the event for a bit difference.

That is fair enough :)

[GR346]

I had Maxxis rubber on my calais and found it to be rather soft too, especially on the rears - have you tried another brand with a firmer compound like one of the Bridgestones or Kumho??

[Urko]

I think your issue is with having a heavy right foot.

I think I've got an issue with you now bro :)

[lmoengnr]

I think I've got an issue with you now bro :)

I know from experience! :lol:

[IJ.]

TRAC on or off?

[offshore]

If its even wear all round then its just the tyres and if you drive hard getting the tyres hot will increase wear. Try another brand next time. But 15k km for tyres is ok for a performance V8. My mate has Focus XR5 and he was winging the other day about having to get new tyres soon and his has lasted 45k km lol.

[Urko]

TRAC on or off?

OFF, just normal daily driver, doing 10.000 km/year

[Urko]

If its even wear all round then its just the tyres and if you drive hard getting the tyres hot will increase wear. Try another brand next time. But 15k km for tyres is ok for a performance V8. My mate has Focus XR5 and he was winging the other day about having to get new tyres soon and his has lasted 45k km lol.

Its wierd its just rear tyres that are wearing off...lol to your mate...I might try different brand...any suggestions

[Woodchukka]

How about toe adjustments? Any feathering on the edges of the tires? Can you post a couple of pictures of the tires.

[IJ.]

OFF, just normal daily driver, doing 10.000 km/year
Drive it for a couple of weeks how you normally do with TRAC on and see if it's spinning without you realising ;)

[Urko]

How about toe adjustments? Any feathering on the edges of the tires? Can you post a couple of pictures of the tires.

No feathering on the edges, about 2 mill tread left on RR and 3 mill on LR
Will post few photos later on...

[Urko]

Drive it for a couple of weeks how you normally do with TRAC on and see if it's spinning without you realising ;)

ha ha ha...not funny :))))

[IJ.]

ha ha ha...not funny :))))
Sorry wasn't trying to be fully, if you have a tight LSD you could be turning an inside wheel every time you apply power in corners and this will wear the rears as you describe, with TRAC on you might catch a TRAC msg on the dash or feel it pulling power when it happens.

[Drizt]

Good suggestion. My traction control comes on all the time when I drive :) not so much when my wife drives :p

[Urko]

Thanks guys for helping me, I really appreciate it...have a nice AUSTRALIA DAY :) aussie aussie aussie....

[Urko]

How about toe adjustments? Any feathering on the edges of the tires? Can you post a couple of pictures of the tires.

Some photos as promised...

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060347.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060347.jpg.html)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060407.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060407.jpg.html)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060354.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060354.jpg.html)

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060347.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060347.jpg.html)

Couldn't help myself...sexy as :)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/HOLDEN%20SSV%20ute/20140130_060842.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/HOLDEN%20SSV%20ute/20140130_060842.jpg.html)

[Drizt]

I'm certainly no expert but that looks like normal wear to me. For the rears to wear more than the fronts there must be some rubbing going on. Either wheel spin or as someone else suggested an overly tight diff causing the inner wheel to turn/spin whenever you take corners.

[jc_sv8]

In my opinion 15K sounds hardly like normal. I got 68 out of the original Bridgestones and on my second set (Maxxis) they are nearly ready for replacement now after 50.
If they are Z rated and driven hard then 15 might sound about right.

PS: Yes, I drive like a granny... :booty:

[Urko]

I drive like a granny too
In my opinion 15K sounds hardly like normal. I got 68 out of the original Bridgestones and on my second set (Maxxis) they are nearly ready for replacement now after 50.
If they are Z rated and driven hard then 15 might sound about right.

PS: Yes, I drive like a granny... :booty:

[Drizt]

Do you carry heavy loads in the ute?

[Urko]

never...i am tellin you this car is a mistery
Do you carry heavy loads in the ute?

[Woodchukka]

Some photos as promised...



http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060354.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/Things%20U%20see/Tyres/20140130_060354.jpg.html)




I am interested in this picture (picture 3 if it doesn't come up). The tread groove near the center of the picture looks like it has rubber flaking off into the groove. Went out and checked my tires (235/40/18 with 3,000 km) and the wife's (205/65/15 front 5k rears about 10k) and neither have this. I can't recall my old tires (40,000km) having it either. The tread blocks on the edge of the tire look a little uneven to (one side lower than the other or another way leading edge higher than the front) however that could just be the angle of the picture. I had a similar thing on a set of front tires when I first got the car and it ended up being that the toe adjustment was out.

[offshore]

Does any one else drive the car? Looks like regular wheel spin and or burnouts.

[amckiwi]

Run your hand across the tread from side to side does one way feel smoother than the other?
I am not talking chunky difference just a bit rougher.
Also make sure you use a known accurate pressure gauge (servos can be very unreliable) and that if they are directional they are the right way round!
Very unlikely to be point 2 i know

[redvxr8clubby]

Its wierd its just rear tyres that are wearing off...lol to your mate...I might try different brand...any suggestions

You wonder if there is an issue with the diff as someone suggested. You mentioned you've had alignments done, I guess with the problem you have you would have had all 4 wheels checked for alignment. I think VE's generally are heavier on the rear tyres than the fronts. I have an SV6 sedan and the rears only last about 40,000 Km, the fronts have more left in them. I mentioned this at local tyre place as from all my previous older Commodores the rears last longer than the fronts, most of those would be solid rear axle cars VK, VN, VP, VS etc, and they said this is typical of VE's. Apart from any problem with the diff and 4 wheel alignments, only thing I could suggest is try another brand - say a Kumho. I could be a smart a*** and suggest you get a 4WD and put those Coopers tyres on that are claimed to be high mileage. With the alignments you could try Bob Jane, I have found them good over the years.

[Urko]

They fell the same, no difference.
I am the only one who drives it.
Been using nitrogen in my tyres and still checking pressure every 3 months @ Bob Jane. I asked them about my problem and they did not know what could be wrong.
They just put me on long life tyre plan service and I cant see any difference.
So what could be wrong with my diff? Will post few more photos.
I think that rubber flaking off on third pic is just normal wear.

Run your hand across the tread from side to side does one way feel smoother than the other?
I am not talking chunky difference just a bit rougher.
Also make sure you use a known accurate pressure gauge (servos can be very unreliable) and that if they are directional they are the right way round!
Very unlikely to be point 2 i know

[Urko]

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/20140201_134213.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/20140201_134213.jpg.html)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132130.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132130.jpg.html)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132120.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132120.jpg.html)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132057.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132057.jpg.html)
http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132046.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_132046.jpg.html)
Thanks

[Urko]

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_134213.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_134213.jpg.html)


Just want to get to the bottom of this before I buy the new set of rear tyres

[redvxr8clubby]

http://i1270.photobucket.com/albums/jj618/Urky/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_134213.jpg (http://s1270.photobucket.com/user/Urky/media/UTE%20Tyres/20140201_134213.jpg.html)


Just want to get to the bottom of this before I buy the new set of rear tyres

Someone might correct me here, but my understanding is Previous value means the settings on the car when you drove in. Final value is the setting after adjustment. Data value (I think) is the manufacturers spec. Data bank tolerance - and + is the tolerance from the Data value. So if you look at the rear half toe figures for example data value is +.2mm plus and minus tolerance is .7mm so a value of between -.5mm and +.9mm would be in acceptable range. If I have this right then the Final values of 1.7mm and 1.6mm are outside of tolerance. I would think the data values would be for standard settings, if your car is lowered I'm not sure any values should be different from standard.

[offshore]

Looking at the tyres I dont see a problem its just the way he drives and the tyres. Just try a different type next time if it worries you.

[Urko]

I am not sure how to read those numbers either but there must be someone here who knows a bit more about it. It does look a bit dodgy
Someone might correct me here, but my understanding is Previous value means the settings on the car when you drove in. Final value is the setting after adjustment. Data value (I think) is the manufacturers spec. Data bank tolerance - and + is the tolerance from the Data value. So if you look at the rear half toe figures for example data value is +.2mm plus and minus tolerance is .7mm so a value of between -.5mm and +.9mm would be in acceptable range. If I have this right then the Final values of 1.7mm and 1.6mm are outside of tolerance. I would think the data values would be for standard settings, if your car is lowered I'm not sure any values should be different from standard.

[Xjas]

Someone might correct me here, but my understanding is Previous value means the settings on the car when you drove in. Final value is the setting after adjustment. Data value (I think) is the manufacturers spec. Data bank tolerance - and + is the tolerance from the Data value. So if you look at the rear half toe figures for example data value is +.2mm plus and minus tolerance is .7mm so a value of between -.5mm and +.9mm would be in acceptable range. If I have this right then the Final values of 1.7mm and 1.6mm are outside of tolerance. I would think the data values would be for standard settings, if your car is lowered I'm not sure any values should be different from standard.

Thats how I read it too.

[Urko]

Hmmm... Might go back to Bob Jane and ask them about it?!?

[Urko]

Can anyone else please check those alignment settings...

[Urko]

anyone, please???

[markone2]

Hmmm... Might go back to Bob Jane and ask them about it?!?

I see Two majors issues here
1/ You have lowered the car
2/ This is the big one.BOB JANE TMART :shock:

[Hos]

Lowered car doesn't matter. I've done 45000 kms in my wagon on SSL springs, got a few thou left. Did 38000 in my SS ute with SSL all round.

What size are your rims?

Rotate and align every 5000km, correct pressures and quality tyres should see you get 30,000+kms.

[markone2]

Lowered car doesn't matter. I've done 45000 kms in my wagon on SSL springs, got a few thou left. Did 38000 in my SS ute with SSL all round.

What size are your rims?

Rotate and align every 5000km, correct pressures and quality tyres should see you get 30,000+kms.

Recall that magic feeling you got every time you drive out of the shop with 4 brand new tyres fitted. feels like a whole new car..I repeat that exercise every 12 months as the vehicle in question has probably done some serious competition work .Let me know if you ever hear of a New C 63 AMG getting 25K plus out a a set of rubber.( Orignal Factory tyres matched to the cars performance levels )..just as some folk who find enjoyment in their LSX powered cars purchase tyres too suit their vehicles matched to their ability behind the wheel + RIGHT BOOT driving skills..on or off road ……Not what makes max mileage material sitting on 99kph on our substandard highways and byways

Those same drivers tend to avoid BJ T Marts like the plague .

.

[macca_779]

Agree with Mark. And I'm in a similar boat. 20 000k's tops as I generally buy UHP tyres. 12 months I'll get out of a pair. They then got migrated to the rear and new fronts are slapped on. So 2 years.

[Drizt]

Those same drivers tend to avoid BJ T Marts like the plague .

.

Do BJ sell different tyres?

[Wonky]

I think he's refer to their expertise on alignment machines etc - have heard a few scary stories over the years myself, though I guess that can happen with big franchises.

[offshore]

I dont think its that bad though lol. Seriously if you get 40k out of some tyres your not using your car as performance vehicle. In my VF redline im upto 7000km and im pretty much half worn on the rear. If I get to 15k ill be happy. Infact simply overwhelmed with joy lol.

[sjhugh]

Those same drivers tend to avoid BJ T Marts like the plague .

.


I totally agree.

10,000km out of a good sticky tyre is a fair trade in my books.
It costs bigger $$$ to play but the better grip is well worth the outlay.

As far as the (wheel slipping even at mild throttle with traction control on) C63 is concerned, most owners talk of rear tyre life of between 5 ,000 & 10,000km depending on the brand.
Tyre wear is a fact of life when owning a low down N/A torque monster.

Why have a performance car and then put cheap runaround tyres on it?
Why expect a zillion kms worth of wear life and think that’s a good thing?

When you have strong power at your command the life of your family, yourself and the road users around you is important enough to save and pay for decent rubber.


.

[heavyduty1340]

Recall that magic feeling you got every time you drive out of the shop with 4 brand new tyres fitted. feels like a whole new car..I repeat that exercise every 12 months as the vehicle in question has probably done some serious competition work .Let me know if you ever hear of a New C 63 AMG getting 25K plus out a a set of rubber.( Orignal Factory tyres matched to the cars performance levels )..just as some folk who find enjoyment in their LSX powered cars purchase tyres too suit their vehicles matched to their ability behind the wheel + RIGHT BOOT driving skills..on or off road ……Not what makes max mileage material sitting on 99kph on our substandard highways and byways

Those same drivers tend to avoid BJ T Marts like the plague ..

Im with you - I rarely get 15k - 18k from my tyres, my Sportwagon went through 3 sets in 48k

Wifes VE G8 Supercharged is near on through its second set in 18k

I would hate to count how many sets of tyres my Monaro has gone through in the 25k Ive done in it

If we have these cars, we have to enjoy them

[offshore]

Hi, I have been replacing my rear tyres more often than my undies :)
Ute is lowered (king springs sssl + Monroe GT shocks)
Bought MAXXIS, done 15.000 km and there is almost no tread left (this was my 3 set of tyres, done 45k so far)...normal driving
Been doing wheel alignment every 5.000 km, checking tyre pressure etc...it doesn't help
Front tyres are fine the only problem is with rear ones. It looks they wear even across.
There must be something wrong because this is not normal. I have been asking around what to do and everybody is telling me that this is because my ute is lowered...
I am from Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise)...Does anyone know where would be the best place to go???
Do I need camber kit...

Thanks
Uros

Normal wear mate just get use to it

[whitels1ss]

Do BJ sell different tyres?

Plenty of people don't like BJ because of the man himself & what he has done to drag racing in Australia in recent years.
They don't like the thought of giving him any money.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCzk7cb6Hmc

[Drizt]

That makes more sense.

[markone2]

Do BJ sell different tyres?

Not at all.Simply put , they sell the cheapest most Nasty tryes they can purchase in Bulk with the BJ TMart trademark stamped on the sidewall.....

Ever wondered why the local BJ Tmart don’t issue safety Certs for cars after BJT specially trained BUT non qualified mechanics give you a 2K to 4K quote on your car’s front end @ suspension / Brakes that require immediate repairs for your own/ Familys safety ?


.....Every day happening
Standard induction training for BJ T mart staff and another tyre outfit whom I will not name as yet .

.

[Urko]

So, nothing is wrong with my alignment settings.