Alignment Question for C4C5

[cavettefan]

PeterG, you need to keep in mind that the tire store has been working with VetNutz to get the problem resolved. Anytime you replace tires, it is a prudent measure to get the alignment set so that you are starting with everything at original factory specification. The tire store that I use checks the alignment every rotation (5,000 miles) to keep everything to factory specification.

 

[VetNutz]

I have measured the rear tires as suggested and they are identical in diameter. Monday morning I am going to have the tire originally mounted on the right front placed on the left, then if it doesn't pull any worse than it presently does, will live with the results. I don't expect it to solve the problem, but the Michelin rep and my local dealer think the long shot is worth trying. The rep does acknowledge that some cars are more sensitive to tread/tire design, especially high performance ones such as the Vette. My Chevy dealer claims the alignment can be changed to eliminate the pulling, so we'll cross this bridge when/if necessary. I'll post an update after making the switch.

Basically I am satisfied with the Michelin Pilot Sport Zero pressures because they offer a much quieter and superior ride to the Goodyears, and they were cheaper as well. This is my daily driver, and the all season tread is another plus. Traction on both wet and dry roads is fantastic. After going through this, will I buy them again? Probably not.

So, to PeterG: We're seeing the response to a possibly isolated problem here in this chain, but there does seem to be a potential issue. Yes, have all 4 wheels aligned when you replace your tires, discuss this issue with your dealer to establish your replacement options, then buy what best suits your needs. You can also check with your local Corvette Club for additional info. Good luck.

 

[PeterG]

VetNutz, thanks for providing -- and going through -- this evaluation work for all of us! Can you provide the name and phone number of the Michelin rep?

It appears that the benefits of going to Michelin are over-ridden by the factors you experienced.

 

[rwlc5]

I got the Michelin Pilot Sport runflats back in March along with Z06 chromies and had an alignment done at the same time. I have not had one problem. I even went on the 50th anniversary caravan. The car doesn't pull or drift at all.

 

[motorman]

tracking on worn roads

this is a problem that GM says has been corrected on the C-6 by different front end caster settings

 

[VetNutz]

Thanks again for the information. After the latest changes to my car (replacing the right front with a new tire, then replacing the left front with the original right front) the pulling to the right has been minimized to a point I can live with. It's still there to a minimal degree, but much less offensive as it originally was.