Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

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Sinbad
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Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by Sinbad »

Hi to the club.
New here and this is my first post.

Question regarding wheel & tire combinations, late T25 (Sep. 1990).

I’m looking to change my wheel & tire combination (currently running standard 14inch wheels & standard springs).

I’m looking at the 15″ Mefro Steel Wheels from Jed at CamperVan culture, and reading the GoWesty recommendations they suggest the Michelin Defender 215/65-15, as I’m not looking to go off road, but mainly ‘black tops’ and perhaps the occasional muddy field.

I can’t find the Michelin Defender tires in the UK are the called something else over here?

Secondly, if I choose this route will I be able to upgrade the brakes without any issues?

Cheers
Kevin
1990 RHD T25 1.9 Petrol AutoSleeper

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marlinowner
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by marlinowner »

Don't seem to be available in UK, also they have a 96 load rating...
1993 SA VW T25/T3 2.5i Microbus/homebrew camper
1981/1968 Marlin Kitcar TR6 Engine

Sinbad
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by Sinbad »

Thanks for info, so what should I be looking for?

The michelin latitude cross?

Or even increase the rims to 16inch?

But again what’s the best road tyre for 90% on road 10% a but of mud / sand?

There seems to be plenty of info regarding off road tyre choice….
1990 RHD T25 1.9 Petrol AutoSleeper

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clift_d
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by clift_d »

In terms of wheels either the 15" or 16" Mefro rims should be fine - there are people running each of these sizes on the forum.

In terms of tyre size 215/65 R15 is only around 1% bigger than the standard 185 R14, so while you won't have any problems with gearing, you really won't get much in the way of uplift on your van - we're only talking about 3mm higher! 215/70 R15 would give you a raise of around 15mm, and is just over 4% larger diameter than standard size, so shouldn't hit your van's performance greatly.

Whichever size you decide to go with you'll need a tyre rated 97 for load, as this is the minimum VW quoted for these vans.
1988 LHD T25 1.6TD Westfalia Club Joker Hightop syncro

Sinbad
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by Sinbad »

Thanks, this is exactly the info I needed :D
Cheers
1990 RHD T25 1.9 Petrol AutoSleeper

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clift_d
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by clift_d »

By the way, welcome to the club, and don't forget to add your location and some info about your van to your sig as it helps people respond to any questions. Oh, and don't forget to check the wiki (link at the top of the page).
1988 LHD T25 1.6TD Westfalia Club Joker Hightop syncro

Sinbad
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Re: Michelin Defender tires in the UK?

Post by Sinbad »

Cheers for the pointer, a short profile added.
1990 RHD T25 1.9 Petrol AutoSleeper

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