View Full Version : tire load ratings: michelin pilot super sport 285/35-19
Schroeder
10-11-2015, 06:43 AM
I am getting some michelin pilot super sport 285/35 - 19s for the front of my 77 trans am. I have 325/30-19 michelin pilot super sports on the back and their load rating is 105y with no other options available. They 285s have 2 load rating options. There is a 101y and a 99y. I'm leaning towards the 99y because they're the oem corvette tire. It seems like this would be the best choice since it's a similar application. How important are these load ratings? If they r important which one should I go with for my front 285s? What difference will I notice between the 2 different load ratings?
icemanrd19
10-11-2015, 07:16 AM
nothing that you will be concerned about with our cars. Go with the 101y if its the same price but you will not tell a difference
Schroeder
10-11-2015, 02:01 PM
Why do u pick the higher load rating over the smaller 99?
icemanrd19
10-11-2015, 02:52 PM
closer to the rear load index is the only reason.
Schroeder
10-11-2015, 03:27 PM
Is there a difference in sidewall stiffness? And the softer 99 will deflect more than the rear? I'll b honest, I haven't looked into what the load index meant....it always seems to be over looked, so I overlooked it too. I just ordered these tires and the guy didn't even ask me which load index I wanted, meaning he chose for me. I'm gonna call tomorrow and make sure he gets the 103y. Googling what the load index means now.....
Boxjohn
10-11-2015, 05:13 PM
I would be wary that the oem tire may be a harder compound because factory
Schroeder
10-11-2015, 05:32 PM
I'm sorry, could u clarify? Not sure what that means. Also, the 103y 285 is .2" larger in diameter than the rear 325s. I know it's not much but it's not something I'm excited about. Performance always comes first tho
Boxjohn
10-12-2015, 11:42 AM
I'm sorry, could u clarify? Not sure what that means. Also, the 103y 285 is .2" larger in diameter than the rear 325s. I know it's not much but it's not something I'm excited about. Performance always comes first tho
When Gm gave Michelin the specifications for their specific tires, it likely involved better treadwear as opposed to more grip. That's almost always the side oem stuff leans toward.
Schroeder
10-15-2015, 01:50 AM
Any one else suggest the higher load rating on the front even tho these will have a .2" larger diameter than the rear?
likely that the lower 99 load rating is going to be more forgiving of wrong camber, and more progressive in break away. The only reason I'd go the higher load rating if you plan on dailying the thing on crappy potholed roads. The 101 probably protects your wheel better. (Either way run them at max pressure if you think potholes are likely)
Schroeder
10-29-2015, 02:02 PM
I just spoke with a michelin dealer and granted I don't think he deals with racing, he recommended the 99y on the front. Said I was unable necessarily stiffening my side wall, making my ride rougher, and gaining 400lb carrying capability per tire. I think that load is substantial, but I don't know if the added stiffness will b necessary or be too much for street driving. Will the stiffer side wall help fight understeer that I'll surely see with my staggered tire width setup? Remember, 325s with a 103 rating will b on the back. More help would be appreciated before I pull the teigger, annoy my tire guy, and change my order from the 103 version to the 99
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