tires--tread pattern?

[sothpaw]

Sanity check:

True/false: The tread pattern on a tire effects how it repels water. Therefore, if the
pavement is dry, it does not matter what tread pattern you have (assuming same
surface area of rubber in contact w/ pavement). Dry traction is dependent on tire
compound only.

The reason I ask: I want to switch my front GSCs (asymetrical, not supposed to swap left
with right) for reasons of tread wear in a race I have next week. If I switch, the tread
pattern will be backwards fore/aft from what it should be (outside tread will still be
on outside though).

Thanks,
Andy

 

[rrubel]

I would say false... the shape of the tread blocks affects how they move under the weight of the car while cornering (and they DO move). Point the block in another direction and the movement is not as designed.
[RICHR]

 

[Paul G]

If it is worth it to you have the tires switched on the wheels. They will still turn in the same direction except the tire tread wear will be kept mnore even. I am hving my wheels polished this winter. I am going to have my Firestone SZ50's mounted on the other side of the car when I have them re mounted. Just to even out wear.

 

[cntrhub]

Budget racing are we? If that's the case, go for it. Those tires will be "junk" after the race anyway. I used to switch tires around, to burn out the opposite side also. Not only was I in the hunt, the tires never chunked, or separated from the carcass. Slicks have no tread patttern. Who cares where the tread pattern is facing in the dry! Even if you are in the wet with rain tires, everyone will skid at some point. Tire manufacturing has improved in the past 20 years. You should be able to get away with it. Either way, after you practice, and to be on the safe side, check the circumference for separation.