E-Type Tyre Dilemma
Discussion
Mark 2 and not an E-type, but:
I had Avon Turbospeed on the car, plenty of tread but 15-20 years old. I thought I was getting old and feeble, or at least more old and feeble than I was, as the steering was getting increasingly heavy. I had an upgrade to EZ steering pencilled in, but before that, changed the tyres to Blockleys. The improvement to the steering weight was pretty dramatic, and the EZ upgrade was cancelled.
It was one of those 'I wish I'd done it sooner' moments.
I had Avon Turbospeed on the car, plenty of tread but 15-20 years old. I thought I was getting old and feeble, or at least more old and feeble than I was, as the steering was getting increasingly heavy. I had an upgrade to EZ steering pencilled in, but before that, changed the tyres to Blockleys. The improvement to the steering weight was pretty dramatic, and the EZ upgrade was cancelled.
It was one of those 'I wish I'd done it sooner' moments.
Toptrump,
An E type is a great car to live with daily and drive. Rust and accident damage is what you have to watch for when you buy.
They take unleaded, they are reliable and comfortable if you are under 6 ft1in. Over that height and they can give problems. I have some nice modern cars and as far as I am concerned it still holds its head up with them.
Here I am at The Ring a few years ago. It was a "stag-do" with 8 other silly cars. I was travelling with my friend in an Alfa Quadrafoglio. On the Autobahn we did miles and miles at 100-120 mph, no problem in what I would call very hot weather. We matched each other for fuelling over a 2,000mile round trip. He had an edge on acceleration with 500 bhp, however when he hit a small speed bump his car went into limp mode! It fixed itself however. I had no problems at all. What other 50 year could you do that in?
I saw an easy 137 mph on the straight and the speed was still climbing when my friend noticed a rope across the track. It was my first time on the circuit and it was the env of the lap. One emergency stop later and I has smoking rear brakes. They were fine though.
Just driving around open roads they are very nice indeed, however they are not what I would call a city car. They have long legs and like a drink.
The best thing about them is the club support and the parts supply. It is better than many moderns. Even a complete wiring loom is simple and costs only around £1k brand new.
The most important factor when buying is rust damage and accident damage. You must take someone along with you who knows. Many are bodged with hidden damage. Everything else is easily fixable with a bit of no how.
Tyres, wheel bearings discs pads, all that stuff is easy compared to comparable cars of the period like Ferraris and other exotics. Especially if you happen to live in the UK.
Value wise I would go for a Series 2 FHC short wheelbase model, as it is basically the same car as an S1 for less money, like the one below.
It doesnt really matter though as long tern they all hold value well.
An E type is a great car to live with daily and drive. Rust and accident damage is what you have to watch for when you buy.
They take unleaded, they are reliable and comfortable if you are under 6 ft1in. Over that height and they can give problems. I have some nice modern cars and as far as I am concerned it still holds its head up with them.
Here I am at The Ring a few years ago. It was a "stag-do" with 8 other silly cars. I was travelling with my friend in an Alfa Quadrafoglio. On the Autobahn we did miles and miles at 100-120 mph, no problem in what I would call very hot weather. We matched each other for fuelling over a 2,000mile round trip. He had an edge on acceleration with 500 bhp, however when he hit a small speed bump his car went into limp mode! It fixed itself however. I had no problems at all. What other 50 year could you do that in?
I saw an easy 137 mph on the straight and the speed was still climbing when my friend noticed a rope across the track. It was my first time on the circuit and it was the env of the lap. One emergency stop later and I has smoking rear brakes. They were fine though.
Just driving around open roads they are very nice indeed, however they are not what I would call a city car. They have long legs and like a drink.
The best thing about them is the club support and the parts supply. It is better than many moderns. Even a complete wiring loom is simple and costs only around £1k brand new.
The most important factor when buying is rust damage and accident damage. You must take someone along with you who knows. Many are bodged with hidden damage. Everything else is easily fixable with a bit of no how.
Tyres, wheel bearings discs pads, all that stuff is easy compared to comparable cars of the period like Ferraris and other exotics. Especially if you happen to live in the UK.
Value wise I would go for a Series 2 FHC short wheelbase model, as it is basically the same car as an S1 for less money, like the one below.
It doesnt really matter though as long tern they all hold value well.
politeperson said:
Toptrump,
An E type is a great car to live with daily and drive. Rust and accident damage is what you have to watch for when you buy.
<snip>>
That is what I am talking about. ooooff. What a stunning machine and what a fantastic series of adventures. Thanks for taking the time out to share your knowledge and experiences. Is yours a 4.2 or 5.3? I'd love to own a V12 but had a S1 XJ6 years ago with the Straight 6 and I do love them- IIRC they are on a par with each other performance-wise.An E type is a great car to live with daily and drive. Rust and accident damage is what you have to watch for when you buy.
<snip>>
Noted on bodges- I own a Stag
Similar in that regard.Sorry for hijacking the thread, these have just been winking at me more and more.
Better late than never I guess peeps. I've had my E-type forty years and 125,000 miles, so I guess I can say that I have had a tyre or two by now.
Back in the day I always went with Dunlop SP 185/70 radials, and they held the road well but didn't last long. Mind you, I was doing track days and hill climbs and mountain rallies.
When Dunlop stopped making them, I went on to Michelins, and while they lasted they weren't much good in wet weather. And the steering was heavy too.
I tried Avons but found them, well, middling is the right word I would say.
Then, firstly for the D-type, I tried Blockley crossplies and I was hooked. Lasted far longer than Dunlops and could be drifted with ease on the track, so I changed the E-type (I'm getting there) to Blockley 185/70 radials. I was on Michelins after some Pirellis) for some reason, and needing new rims (very rusty) I went to MWS and had new painted rims (far easier to keep clean and for me look the part) and standard 185/70 tubeless fitted. I am always amazed at what happened next. I drove away, being gentle to bed them in, got a couple of miles and went straight back to MWS and asked them to check the tyre pressures. The steering was eerily light. No, the pressures were, as requested 30psi front and 32psi rear - it was me, not the fitters. So, I am now on my third set of Blockleys and the only fault is that they hum a bit, but once past 30 mph wind roar drowns the slight noise from the tyres. Moreover, these tyres are long lasting, and hold the road well.
On a different tack this tends to be partly personal preference and some people showing off. Sorry folks. I am talking about having 205 instead of 185 tyres. Yes, if you like them they fill the wheel arches (but do remember to remove the bump stops) but I have never ever felt the need to change for handling purposes. and the steering is heavier too.In my experience a lot of people say they bought the wider tyres (and some go further with up-market rims) but more for the look than hard driving and I know some people who do drive hard, but a number of people use the car for a Sunday jaunt to the pub, not track days. And never in the wet either. Perhaps this is typecasting and we are all different anyway, but I like the Blockleys and (whisper it) they are a darned sight cheaper into the bargain.I guess some people will now howl in protest so I am looking for a parapet to hide behind.
ETA:- Wheels are 5.5 and tyres 185/70. I am quizzical about the chart above because I have never seen a 185/80 tyre. And I would seriously disagree with the Blockley rating. Oh, and they are tubeless with nary a problem in that department. But then again, we are all different.
Back in the day I always went with Dunlop SP 185/70 radials, and they held the road well but didn't last long. Mind you, I was doing track days and hill climbs and mountain rallies.
When Dunlop stopped making them, I went on to Michelins, and while they lasted they weren't much good in wet weather. And the steering was heavy too.
I tried Avons but found them, well, middling is the right word I would say.
Then, firstly for the D-type, I tried Blockley crossplies and I was hooked. Lasted far longer than Dunlops and could be drifted with ease on the track, so I changed the E-type (I'm getting there) to Blockley 185/70 radials. I was on Michelins after some Pirellis) for some reason, and needing new rims (very rusty) I went to MWS and had new painted rims (far easier to keep clean and for me look the part) and standard 185/70 tubeless fitted. I am always amazed at what happened next. I drove away, being gentle to bed them in, got a couple of miles and went straight back to MWS and asked them to check the tyre pressures. The steering was eerily light. No, the pressures were, as requested 30psi front and 32psi rear - it was me, not the fitters. So, I am now on my third set of Blockleys and the only fault is that they hum a bit, but once past 30 mph wind roar drowns the slight noise from the tyres. Moreover, these tyres are long lasting, and hold the road well.
On a different tack this tends to be partly personal preference and some people showing off. Sorry folks. I am talking about having 205 instead of 185 tyres. Yes, if you like them they fill the wheel arches (but do remember to remove the bump stops) but I have never ever felt the need to change for handling purposes. and the steering is heavier too.In my experience a lot of people say they bought the wider tyres (and some go further with up-market rims) but more for the look than hard driving and I know some people who do drive hard, but a number of people use the car for a Sunday jaunt to the pub, not track days. And never in the wet either. Perhaps this is typecasting and we are all different anyway, but I like the Blockleys and (whisper it) they are a darned sight cheaper into the bargain.I guess some people will now howl in protest so I am looking for a parapet to hide behind.
ETA:- Wheels are 5.5 and tyres 185/70. I am quizzical about the chart above because I have never seen a 185/80 tyre. And I would seriously disagree with the Blockley rating. Oh, and they are tubeless with nary a problem in that department. But then again, we are all different.
Edited by lowdrag on Thursday 6th April 04:34
Ha! I could have written that ,Lowdrag, your experiences are pretty much identical to mine. I had the painted wire wheels on my shopping list when I went to MWS, but asked them to quote for refurbing my chrome ones first. A refurb turned out the cheaper option, so the painted wires remained in their warehouse.
This was just about pre covid, so I'd guess I've only put around 5K miles on the tyres, but so far all good, including an emergency stop from high speed on the A68...
This was just about pre covid, so I'd guess I've only put around 5K miles on the tyres, but so far all good, including an emergency stop from high speed on the A68...
Thanks very much all.
After much deliberation I've just ordered 5x 185VR15 Blockleys (no point in having an insurance issue with potentially using an old spare tyre).
I thought unless I go for the narrower profile, I'll never really know how the steering should/could feel. I think the 6" rims should widen the look a bit anyway.
Decision was based on comments from fellow owners on this thread (who clearly use their cars and don't dawdle about with them), and likewise talking to a couple of owners who have Blockleys fitted to their E-Types (and a Lotus).
If money was no object I would have gone for the Pirellis, but these days I have to be realistic, and double the cost for the amount of miles I'll be doing seemed to be unjustifiable. The magazine tyre review comments are however at the back of my mind. Anyway, it's done!
After much deliberation I've just ordered 5x 185VR15 Blockleys (no point in having an insurance issue with potentially using an old spare tyre).
I thought unless I go for the narrower profile, I'll never really know how the steering should/could feel. I think the 6" rims should widen the look a bit anyway.
Decision was based on comments from fellow owners on this thread (who clearly use their cars and don't dawdle about with them), and likewise talking to a couple of owners who have Blockleys fitted to their E-Types (and a Lotus).
If money was no object I would have gone for the Pirellis, but these days I have to be realistic, and double the cost for the amount of miles I'll be doing seemed to be unjustifiable. The magazine tyre review comments are however at the back of my mind. Anyway, it's done!
LowDrag:
"ETA:- Wheels are 5.5 and tyres 185/70. I am quizzical about the chart above because I have never seen a 185/80 tyre. And I would seriously disagree with the Blockley rating. Oh, and they are tubeless with nary a problem in that department. But then again, we are all different."
80s are full profile tyres, which is all you could get before 70s were introduced as the first 'low profiles' (although few people would regard 70 profile as 'low' these days). 80 is typically not quoted in the tyre size of a full profile tyre so a 185HR15 will strictly be a 185/80HR15.
I always run with tubes on wire wheels regardless of whether the tyre is branded a tubeless because I am always concerned about losing air at the spokes. Interested to hear that you are running tubeless on wires without air loss.
OLDBENZ said:
LowDrag:
"ETA:- Wheels are 5.5 and tyres 185/70. I am quizzical about the chart above because I have never seen a 185/80 tyre. And I would seriously disagree with the Blockley rating. Oh, and they are tubeless with nary a problem in that department. But then again, we are all different."
80s are full profile tyres, which is all you could get before 70s were introduced as the first 'low profiles' (although few people would regard 70 profile as 'low' these days). 80 is typically not quoted in the tyre size of a full profile tyre so a 185HR15 will strictly be a 185/80HR15.
I always run with tubes on wire wheels regardless of whether the tyre is branded a tubeless because I am always concerned about losing air at the spokes. Interested to hear that you are running tubeless on wires without air loss.
Some wire wheels (mine included) have a rubbery resin around the rim that completely seals the spoke nipples. I run tubes because There seems little disadvantage and I’m unsure how the resin degrades. Not worth the risk IMO."ETA:- Wheels are 5.5 and tyres 185/70. I am quizzical about the chart above because I have never seen a 185/80 tyre. And I would seriously disagree with the Blockley rating. Oh, and they are tubeless with nary a problem in that department. But then again, we are all different."
80s are full profile tyres, which is all you could get before 70s were introduced as the first 'low profiles' (although few people would regard 70 profile as 'low' these days). 80 is typically not quoted in the tyre size of a full profile tyre so a 185HR15 will strictly be a 185/80HR15.
I always run with tubes on wire wheels regardless of whether the tyre is branded a tubeless because I am always concerned about losing air at the spokes. Interested to hear that you are running tubeless on wires without air loss.
I've been running 185/70 ever since I gave up on the old R5 Dunlop crossplies, and yes, we all had tubes. Nowadays the big "rubber band" seal has satisfactorily sealed the air in and even after the car has, for the most part, stayed in the garage in winter there is virtually no air loss - just a lb or two as you might expect, but nothing noticeable. However, if you want belt and braces I would highly recommend the Blockley inner tubes. Very heavy duty.
ETA:-
Seems to me that many people are more at risk of changing their tyres due to old age these days than wearing out. And sadly I am at risk of being one of these people as the years fly by. No more, as in the past, leaving Le Mans and dining in Rijeka 1,100 miles later And while I'm at it, Blockleys have a "V" speed rating which many classic tyres don't. Michelin are "H" rated for example. Now I don't wish to scare people, but the thought occurred to me - does your insurance require "V" rated tyres for your E-type? Pirelli are also "V" rated I see. I emphasise that I am not at all sure what insurers say about it.
ETA:-
Seems to me that many people are more at risk of changing their tyres due to old age these days than wearing out. And sadly I am at risk of being one of these people as the years fly by. No more, as in the past, leaving Le Mans and dining in Rijeka 1,100 miles later And while I'm at it, Blockleys have a "V" speed rating which many classic tyres don't. Michelin are "H" rated for example. Now I don't wish to scare people, but the thought occurred to me - does your insurance require "V" rated tyres for your E-type? Pirelli are also "V" rated I see. I emphasise that I am not at all sure what insurers say about it.
Edited by lowdrag on Friday 7th April 15:44
I went with Avon CR6ZZ in a 205.
They’re a sticky tyre but look period race and pretty sure they make the steering heavier but since driving is the only workout I get I think it’s worth it.
They don’t last long as they’re soft compound.
I use this car a lot come rain or shine as I’m no longer into show quality stuff. But I have to say, as mentioned above, these cars are incredibly usable everyday and keep up with modern traffic.
My only problem is that I drive it too fast.
They’re a sticky tyre but look period race and pretty sure they make the steering heavier but since driving is the only workout I get I think it’s worth it.
They don’t last long as they’re soft compound.
I use this car a lot come rain or shine as I’m no longer into show quality stuff. But I have to say, as mentioned above, these cars are incredibly usable everyday and keep up with modern traffic.
My only problem is that I drive it too fast.
vpr said:
I went with Avon CR6ZZ in a 205.
They’re a sticky tyre but look period race and pretty sure they make the steering heavier but since driving is the only workout I get I think it’s worth it.
They don’t last long as they’re soft compound.
I use this car a lot come rain or shine as I’m no longer into show quality stuff. But I have to say, as mentioned above, these cars are incredibly usable everyday and keep up with modern traffic.
My only problem is that I drive it too fast.
So is that 205/70 R15 on a 5.5 wheel?They’re a sticky tyre but look period race and pretty sure they make the steering heavier but since driving is the only workout I get I think it’s worth it.
They don’t last long as they’re soft compound.
I use this car a lot come rain or shine as I’m no longer into show quality stuff. But I have to say, as mentioned above, these cars are incredibly usable everyday and keep up with modern traffic.
My only problem is that I drive it too fast.
IMHO the hardtop on the convertible looks better than the folding roof when up.
swisstoni said:
So is that 205/70 R15 on a 5.5 wheel?
IMHO the hardtop on the convertible looks better than the folding roof when up.
Yeah. 205/70 on a 5.5 wheel. IMHO the hardtop on the convertible looks better than the folding roof when up.
Yeah I love the hardtop look better too. I used to leave it on on my S3 Commy too. Clean line.
[url]
|https://thumbsnap.com/T4vMb5d8[/url]Sine there are a few people with E-Types who actually use them - any advice on wing mirrors? I've got some of the rectangular clamp-on versions, but haven't fitted them yet. I'd like something a bit more permanent, and period looking, but obviously they need to be effective. A bit reluctant to start driling holes in the door/scuttle, but it can get tiring turning your head round every 5 minutes in city traffic. Thanks.
dr_gn said:
Sine there are a few people with E-Types who actually use them - any advice on wing mirrors? I've got some of the rectangular clamp-on versions, but haven't fitted them yet. I'd like something a bit more permanent, and period looking, but obviously they need to be effective. A bit reluctant to start driling holes in the door/scuttle, but it can get tiring turning your head round every 5 minutes in city traffic. Thanks.
I used to have the clip on rectangular jobbie but found it pretty useless. I very recently fitted one from the Morris Minor Shop. Much nicer finish and better articulation
dr_gn said:
Sine there are a few people with E-Types who actually use them - any advice on wing mirrors? I've got some of the rectangular clamp-on versions, but haven't fitted them yet. I'd like something a bit more permanent, and period looking, but obviously they need to be effective. A bit reluctant to start driling holes in the door/scuttle, but it can get tiring turning your head round every 5 minutes in city traffic. Thanks.
I bought some expensive clamp on ones. They're currently lying somewhere on the M5.[quote=vpr]
Yeah. 205/70 on a 5.5 wheel.
Yeah I love the hardtop look better too. I used to leave it on on my S3 Commy too. Clean line.
I am having one repaired for my '61 roadster. You'll never have seen one I guess and it took me 30 years to find mine. But then again, you may or may not like it. This is the only photo I have and the other is from the 1965 advert. It will arrive just before the Le Mans Classic I've this photo of mine being worked on and the other is the 1965 advert:-
And I'm with you Swisstoni; I do find it hard to fold down a hard top
Yeah. 205/70 on a 5.5 wheel.
Yeah I love the hardtop look better too. I used to leave it on on my S3 Commy too. Clean line.
I am having one repaired for my '61 roadster. You'll never have seen one I guess and it took me 30 years to find mine. But then again, you may or may not like it. This is the only photo I have and the other is from the 1965 advert. It will arrive just before the Le Mans Classic I've this photo of mine being worked on and the other is the 1965 advert:-
And I'm with you Swisstoni; I do find it hard to fold down a hard top
Edited by lowdrag on Monday 10th April 17:13
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