Which new tyres for 20" alloys?

[t6jc]

Hey all,

I bought a 2017 9 seater LWB T6 last month. It came with 20" alloys (these SuperMetal ones I think: Trident Wheels - SuperMetal ) which are 9x20", and 255/35R20 tyres. This weekend I had a tyre pressure warning come on and went to check the tyres. Looking at them I noticed that the 2 fronts are load rated 97, while the 2 rears are load rated 102.

From what I can tell, 97 load rating is way underrated for the size and weight of this van? It also seems like 102 is a bit below the minimum too.

I'm finding the ride quite harsh and was thinking of getting some less low profile tyres to replace these. Especially with most roads currently being more pothole than road. From what I can see, 275/40 seems to be a standard choice but can rub. As I want to avoid any of that sort of hassle with taking a hot air gun to arches etc, I was thinking perhaps 265/40 would be a better fit?

The van's not lowered and I don't foresee ever doing that. I may save up and eventually look at some nicer suspension/coilovers though at some point. Seeing as this is looking like £1k of new tyres, I want to make sure I'm getting the right thing. Can anyone advise? I've had a browse around, but it's such a rabbit hole that I feel better asking.

Thanks in advance!

Pics attached...

 

[monkeybusiness]

What model is your van? A T28 needs 100 rated tyres as a legal minimum requirement. T30 is 101, T32 is 103

I had 35 profile tyres and it was too crashy. I moved to 265/40 and the ride is much better (I also had some CRS magic on the van too)

 

[t6jc]

Sorry, I missed that vital bit of info! It is a T32 so 103 should be minimum I guess.

I'm literally a 5 minute drive from CRS so I am planning on popping along there at some point. Not keen on the weird combination of harsh feedback from the low profile tyres and the wallowy boaty suspension feel it currently has.

 

[Bigsidavies]

Also depends on the width of the wheels. If they are 8.5j then you can put 245/45/20 on which are easier on the steering and are load rated 103 which covers all T6 flavours.
I put 245/45/20 Uniroyal Rainsports on the front just before xmas and they seem to be wearing well and handle great in the wet. I think they were about £170 each supplied and fitted at my local tyre place.

 

[t6jc]

According to the website (and as best as I can measure them) they're 9.0 x 20". £170 each does sound a lot better than the ~£260/tyre I've been looking at with the Michelin CC3s.

 

[Bigsidavies]

I'd say the Michelins will be a better tyre - and with snow capability too, it depends on your use case. The 245 on a 9j might look a bit narrow, but that's just a guess.

 

[John A]

Also depends on the width of the wheels. If they are 8.5j then you can put 245/45/20 on which are easier on the steering and are load rated 103 which covers all T6 flavours.
I put 245/45/20 Uniroyal Rainsports on the front just before xmas and they seem to be wearing well and handle great in the wet. I think they were about £170 each supplied and fitted at my local tyre place.

I run a 245 tyre on a 9J rim - it's not stretched but there is no real rim protection to speak of

I've been on 245/45/20 103 Giti Control P10 for about 12 months now - they're alright. I had one moment when I stamped on the brake in the freeing cold and damp and the ABS had a field day, but generally they've done ok. Noisier than the Nexens (which I do rate having said I would never buy a cheap tyre) but they were about £585 for memory

 

[campagquinn]

265 40 20 on rear 245 45 20 on front is the sweet spot apparently

 

[t6jc]

Oh really? Dumb question but why the different sizes?

 

[campagquinn]

Narrow on front to make the steering a little easier. Fatter on the rear for looks and road holding

 

[borat]

I’ve got some nearly new Goodyear asymmetric 5s in a 265/40r20 if you’re interested in a cheaper premium swap. I had to change due to air suspension so only used for 2-3 months. Excellent tyres. PM me if of any use. I’m in west mids so not a million miles from you it would appear.

 

[t6jc]

Thanks all, plenty of food for thought!

Thanks @borat for the offer, I'll think about it!