Jeff96-993

I just installed a set of Michelin Pilot Sport Cups. It looks as though the tires are swappable from left to right side. As I was installing the tires on the car I noticed some arrow markings (plus the tread pattern) that make me think the tires are meant for left or right only. Anyone know if they're really swappable?

I've posted the question to TireRack, but I thought someone here may know the answer. TIA.

Ray Calvo

Yes, they are (from what I could find out). I looked long and hard at the sidewall then checked on Michelin site, as I remember.

coolblue

I have pilot sports and they have arrows on the side to say that they are rotational tyres. This means that they should only rotate in one direction only (according to the arrow) I think that this means that it would be like trying to swap your left hand for your right. I think it cannot be done IMHO.

graham_mitchell

If they have a symmetrical tread, then it would make sense that you could swap sides while keeping the correct rotational direction.

If it is asymetrical, then you are out of luck.

Greg Fishman

Listen to Ray. Read the technical info on them and it will confirm that there is no problem swapping them side to side except for rain or wet conditions.

coolblue

Just checked....i stand corrected....looks like you can.

MadMarkie

If you flip the tire over on the wheel, then mount that wheel on the other side of the car, the sense of rotation stays the same! Did it with the last set of PSCs on the old RSA... no problems encountered.

<img border="0" alt="[cheers]" title="" src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" /> Mark

Jeff96-993

Kim,

The tread pattern and the word "Outside" identify the side of the tire which should be outside... however taking a wheel/tire off the left side of the car and bolting it on the right side of the car is the question. In that case the outside would be outside, but what look like arrows on the outside would now be pointing in an opposite direction. And the tread pattern runs the opposite way (the inside part of the tread has an angle to it).

Hopefully this clears up any confusion :-)

MadMarkie

Good point Kim, and actually, I think I read that the tread compound is different inboard and out, as well as the pattern. Yes, flipping the tire on the wheel does put the outside on the inside (phew???!). The tires in question were nearly shot... not really much tread left, the flip was done to get one more DE out of them! Our local track is very abrasive, so it's one trick to get the most out of the tires. What I need to do is buy two cars, so I can set the alignment for even wear across the tread on the track rig....

Greg Fishman

Kim,
If you take the wheel/tire off the left side and put it on the right side it is now turning the opposite direction it was before. This is perfectly fine with the MPSC.
See if you can download this page: <a href="http://www.pcaucr.org/pcaucr/site.nsf/Public/44624135706f2f6785256d330006d1c8/$file/frame.htm" target="_blank">http://www.pcaucr.org/pcaucr/site.nsf/Public/44624135706f2f6785256d330006d1c8/$file/frame.htm</a>

And go to slide # 10

Greg Fishman

Sorry Kim. I realize that now. Outside stays on the outside no matter which direction it turns. Right?

Jeff96-993

Kim,

That was my same thought... they sent me tires all for the same side of the car. And that thought was further elevated by what looked (to me) to be rotation direction arrows on the sidewall. Thankfully it was much ado about nothing... I'm ready to hit the track to try out the tires and was worried that something like a tire change-out might keep me away.

My first trial will be at Putnam Park for the Friday DE. I'm sure a few who replied will be there (Greg F?). If so, I'll say hi.

Greg Fishman

Jeff,
I will be there also. Should be a good time.