[Healeys] 180R15 Michelin XAS on Austin Healey - experiences?

[Guy R Day]

Tadeusz,

The XAS tyre is one of the original non-symmetrical tyres and the size you 
mention, 180R15, is no longer made.  I'm not sure if its replacement 180HR15 
is still done other than for the specialist trade.  Be very wary of the age 
of the tyre if you have been offered some as it could well be some 25+ years 
old. Check the 4 figure number impressed a recessed panel and note the shape 
of the panel - an oblong, a square, a diamond or oblong with rounded ends 
etc.  This is a date code and the shape of the surrounding panel is a decade 
indicator.  You may find it as a 3 figure number which is a week and last 
year number  e.g. 067 is the 6th week (early February of either 1957, 1967, 
1977 1987 etc.  In those days it was not a requirement to date the tyres as 
openly as they currently do and different manufacturing  factories did 
different things.  If it is a 4 figure number  e.g. 3486 it is the 34th week 
(mid July ) of 1986 and if the memory is working it should be in an oblong 
shape with half circle rounded ends.
It should be a good tyre to use on a Healey if recently made but if it older 
than 5 years or so I wouldn't really want it if it were to be driven on in a 
spirited fashion.  Others may give a different cut off age and you cannot 
disagree with that as the storage conditions account for a lot of unseen 
degradation of the tyre rubber.  If all you are going to do with it is 
'potter around' it may be ok.  If older and if it is a show car  and not a 
driver it would useable (but perhaps not concurs).  If there is any sign of 
cracking or dark thin lines on the sidewalls around the toe (where it meets 
the rim) or tread - walk away.
Michelins are known for longevity and good wear but there is the trade off 
with grip and on this tyre that is counterbalanced a little with the 
asymmetrical tread pattern.

Regards to all,

Guy R Day


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Tadeusz Malkiewicz"
Sent: Friday, March 05, 2010 10:43 AM
Subject: [Healeys] 180R15 Michelin XAS on Austin Healey - experiences?


> Hello,
>
> Anyone has any positive/negative experiences with this tire?
>
> Best, Tadek
> _______________________________________________