Hi all,
It's time for me to put some new (shoes) tires on my 1969 series II 2+2 E-Type Jag
I'm currently running Michelin Radial XH4 P205/75R15, and while they look and perform well I have become aware that they are way past their use by date
So for safety its definitely time!!
I would love some suggestions on what brands members have had success with, as well as what I should avoid
Thanks in advance

 

I put on Vredestein Sprint Classic Tires V1812 185HR15 in 2015 on my '69 FHC and they have done well since that time. They were recommended by the 'old timers' in the JOANT (Jaguar Owners Association of North Texas).

Bt.

 

Thanks BT,
Vredesteins are definitely one of the brands that I'm considering.
Anyone recommending Pirelli's?

Regards
Rael

 

I think most people like Pirellis, except for the price. The big question actually seems to be the size. Assuming you have the original 5" rims, you really should stay with the 185 size (assumed aspect ratio is .80). Some people just assume that bigger is better (not true), and squeeze 205/70s onto 5" rims. Not ideal IMHO.

There aren't too many choices in 185s. Vreds are probably the first choice, but haven't always been actually available. There was a kerfluffle about them being "summer only" tires, but I think that's a red herring, and of no concern to most. Some people are pretty insistent that t E-type tires be V-rated, but I doubt that's really a concern for you. H-rated might be good, though. Occasionally I hear of a new and different brand. I would probably not hesitate to try one if I were in the market

Bob Frisby
1970 S2 FHC
Boise, Idaho

 

Thanks for the info Bob.
I'm running 6" Dayton Wire wheels on the front and 7" Dayton wheels on the back
Currently fitted with Michelin 205/70R15
So I want to stick with the 205's
I've kind of narrowed it down to Vredestein Sprint Classic and Vredestein Quatrac 5
Big price difference though!!

Rael Tanchum
1969 S2 2+2
Los Angeles

 

Just for info Rael, I have a '69 2+2 just like yours. If you like the wider tyres that's great, but I use mine on the Goodwood race circuit and find the original spec 185's are perfect, plus they are easier on the normal roads. I use Vredensteins, H rated are fine.

 

Thanks for your input
I would love to be able to drive the Goodwood circuit, but alas only in my dreams!!

 

With the wider rims, you have a much wider choice of tires. 205/70s will work great on the 6" rims, and should be OK on the 7" as well. I have 6" Daytons and fairly recently bought a set of Michelin Defender 205/70 (H rated). They were cheap enough, and I've never experienced any quality issues with Michelins. They drive fine EXCEPT that the steering is very heavy at slow speeds. For this reason only, I wish I'd bought 185s. These would have fit on the 6" rims just fine. Live and learn!

Always have a look at the manufacture dates, and be sure to get fresh tires. These often age out rather than wear out, so you want to buy all the life you can.

Bob Frisby
Boise, Idaho

 

Thanks Bob for all the useful information
I’m definitely considering all the options and reading numerous reviews both positive and negative of the tires on my list

Best
Rael

 

I have Michelin 205 70 Defenders on my 69 FHC w/tubes. I love them: smooth, quiet, great in the rain. I will probably never reach their high mileage warrantee. As for low-speed steering, yes, but so were my 205 70 Avons. I am used to the heavy steering at low speed. Not an issue for me.

 

Might be wrong, but I do wonder if the heavier low speed steering puts more strain on the steering rack etc

 

Yes I too am used to the heavy steering at low speeds and it doesn't bother me either
I prefer driving to parking anyway!!