Replacing Runflats with NonRunflats

[sixfoot6]

I read the FAQ and searched, but it wasn't exactly clear:

I need to replace two of my 17" Pirelli tires. I'm on a relatively strict budget right now and may in fact be selling my beloved MINI by summer's end.

1. If I buy non-run flats, does the run-flat sensor need to be disabled?

2. If I get a flat, what then? I have Triple A, but without a spare what do they do? Trailer it? Fix it on the spot?

Thanks!

Oh, and these are the tires I'm considering:

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....um=045WR7ES712

again, I'm looking for a good bang-to-buck ratio as I'm a bit poor right now

[milliethemini]

Well, since you did make an effort to do a search and find the information first , let me help you out with your questions:

1] Unlike the Chevrolet Corvette, which has runflat tires but utilizes an expensive sensor inside each rim, the runflat sensor on the MINI is much more rudimentary. The sensor is not inside the rim, but is instead located somewhere on the ABS assembly. The sensor detects a difference in tire pressure through any differences in the rotational speed of all 4 tires. In effect, it only detects differences in tire pressure, whereas the one on the Corvette also keeps track of the exact tire pressure of each wheel.

Refine your search, type in 'runflat sensor', this will bring up more detailed threads on this topic. Here's one as an example:
http://www.mini2.com/forum/showthrea...runflat+sensor

2] I assume that you drive a MCS? If so, you have no spare tire to fall back on - and you are taking a calculated gamble using non runflats instead of runflats. Keep a tire air compressor and can of Tire Gunk in your car at all times. I believe that AAA will only help you change your flat tire, not fix it, so without a spare tire that's a moot point. To tow a MINI, it has to be trailered, so I also think you will be out of luck with AAA, as I don't think they use tow trailers.

I don't have 17's on my MCS, so I will let someone else help you with your tire choices But I think you should have 4 of the same tire on your car, not 2 different types. Different brands and models of car tires have different characteristics, and putting two different pairs of tires on your car could negatively affect the handling (and safety) of driving it!

[MINIAC]

The tire-pressure monitoring system warns you when any tire’s pressure drops below 70% of normal, so you want it active regardless of what type of tire you're running.

You should carry a mobility kit if you're running conventional tires without a spare:

http://www.mini2.com/forum/showthrea...kit#post782046

Are you just planning on replacing the two worn tires?

[camminich]

Kumho's are pretty good tires. I have not had the same model, but had good experience with other's. If you can though, spend the extra few bucks and get the Yokohama AVS ES100. $12 more per tire, better overall, and I think you will get a bit more tread life out of them. Plus too Yokohama doesn't change their tire design as much as Kumho does so odds are much better when you go to replace the other 2 tires you will probably still be able get the same set.

[Gary Tate]

I went with the falken 17" tires....1000 miles sofar and happy...much better ride, handling is different especially on those quick little 90's at 50

[Gary Tate]

forgot to mention I ordered a mini spare and jack kit from the mini dealer...will keep it in the Boot

[BruceK]

Quote: Originally Posted by milliethemini

..... To tow a MINI, it has to be trailered, so I also think you will be out of luck with AAA, as I don't think they use tow trailers.
...

If you ever do need a tow from the AAA, make sure you request a flatbed tow truck from the operator. In my experience, they will honor this request. It may take a longer wait time for the AAA to source a flat bed and have it come to you, but your MINI will avoid damage.

I would also recommend buying a second tow hook to supplement the one supplied with your MINI. That way, the tow truck driver can better secure your car on the flat bed without resorting to finding the wrong thing under the car to use as a tie down point.

[CYBERCOM]

Quote: Originally Posted by Gary Tate

I went with the falken 17" tires....1000 miles sofar and happy...much better ride, handling is different especially on those quick little 90's at 50

Hi Gary
What falkens did you go for i am looking at the 415s great looking tyre
also how much did the spare and jack set you back

steve...

[Gary Tate]

Quote: Originally Posted by CYBERCOM

Hi Gary
What falkens did you go for i am looking at the 415s great looking tyre
also how much did the spare and jack set you back

steve...

They were the Falken ZE-512....3000 miles on them sofar all looks well.

The spare and jack set me back 2 big ones.......highway robbery...welll i feel safer now when I am on the road. I will never have runflats again....they dont wear worth a s...

[-blacky-]

I just replaced my runflats with Goodyear F1 Series 2, and have to say that the ride and handling has improved 10 fold ! As for the spare, I don't have one, but will buy a can of foam and an air compressor.

Cheers



Karen

[pabs911]

I have the Falken ZE 512 as well and have been very pleased so far. Only 19 lbs. each! Not too expensive either... about $110.00 per tire.