Tyre size 1997 V70

[vanno]

Hi, anybody running 205/55/16 tyres on their P80 V70? Currently running 205/50/16 without any issues and wondering if I could increase the profile without any problems? Thanks for any advice.

[4x4]

They will rub on full lock

[richmac]

Hi,

I ran these for years on my V70AWD and then V70, both 2.5t, with no issues whatsoever. They were actually OEM fit on the AWD. The circumference even made no noticeable difference to speedo or gearing. Better choice of tyres at better prices normally too.

Best regards,

Rich.

[Luxobarge]

Yes, I run this size on my V70 T5. As noted above, they do rub slightly on full lock, but I don't tend to turn on absolutely hard full lock as this stresses the power steering and rack, so it really doesn't give me a problem.

I changed to this size from the lower profile tyre the T5 is normally fitted with because the higher profile gives a better ride, and given that a) I'm not a boy racer, so the very slight downgrade in handling is more than offset by the comfort benefits and b) the state of the roads around here means the higher profile is better over bumps and poses less chance of damaging a wheel over pot holes, I'm more than happy with this compromise.

Additionally, as noted they are significantly cheaper and more readily available too.

It does make a slight difference to the speedo reading, but in common with pretty much all speedos, the standard set-up over-reads the speed compared to GPS (this is designed-in, to make sure the car meets construction regulations). Using the higher profile (and therefore larger circumference) tyre reduced this over-read so that the speedo is now close to being perfectly accurate, which is a side-effect that I actually really like. I make this statement assuming that driving at a constant speed in a straight line the GPS speed readout on SatNav is accurate, which I think is a fair assumption.

I can't notice any difference in gearing at all, in fact I doubt the gearing ratios are different in a T5 to a normal variant, where this size is standard.

So IMHO if you feel inclined, I say go for it. Recommend that you change all 4 at the same time though, and definitely DO NOT mix sizes on the same axle. Don't forget about the spare too!

HTH

[vanno]

Calculating the difference in profile, I figured that there would be negligible difference to cause a problem. I try to avoid full lock as taught to me by my father so many years ago. I have noticed how much cheaper tyres are at this sizing so thanks for the advice, I’ll will definitely be changing.

[Baffler]

If you go with the increased tyre size you could fit the blue C70 stop locks to help prevent rubbing. These are fitted to C70's with 225/45/17 from the factory.

Useful site here also: https://www.willtheyfit.com/

[vanno]

Useful information but mine are missing and I’ve just purchased a set of the white ones. I guess I could change them but that’s just hassle. Thanks anyway.

[Luxobarge]

Originally Posted by vanno

Useful information but mine are missing and I’ve just purchased a set of the white ones. I guess I could change them but that’s just hassle. Thanks anyway.

If you haven't fitted them yet, you could fashion a slim piece of plastic (say, 1-2mm) to fit behind the stop, which would thicken it enough to stop rubbing? I've just changed mine (white ones) and I wish I'd thought of that!

[Bob Meadows]

You can increase the depth of these by using a plastic/nylon spacer fastened to the origins:~
Cut the above to shape & roughen the backs as well as the face of the existing part, glue the new part on with J.B.Weld- tape into place allowing it to cure as mentioned on the packaging.. areas must be keyed.. the weld will slump until it starts to cure but can then be moulded before it hardens.
Bob.

[vanno]

Excellent idea chaps! Thanks.