TRX tires - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Veloce300DT · #1 12-15-2006, 01:38 PM

I have a set of oddball TRX 15.3" Bundts that I will be restoring. I found them mounted with like new Michelin TRX 220/55/390 tires... they were on a euro-spec w116. Seems as though somebody invested in a set of new tires, and then let the car sit before junking it. The sidewall height is rather tall for my w123, so I would like to replace the current TRX tires with new TRX tires that have a slightly smaller sidewall once I get the wheels back from restoration.

Despite the high prices of TRX tires, the rarity of the wheels justify the investment in rubber to me. Can anybody reccomend a distributor of TRX tires? Coker tires sells them... at a whopping $3xx.xx a piece. I am hoping that I might be able to find them for cheaper, maybe in the $200's.

Secondly, I am wondering if anybody knows anything about the TRX 15.3" Bundts. I have done some research on the M-100 boards and some other sites but have found minimal info. Some believe they were used for MB rally application, and performance application for 6.3, 6.9's, W107 5.0's etc..

I am led to believe that they are ATS branded wheels; the serial number, wheel dimensions, and offset markings are located on the face of the wheel in the curvature of the inner edge of the lip where the spokes meet the lip of the wheels. I have only seen the markings in this area on ATS branded Bundts. However, the wheels I have do not have any ATS markings. The only maker mark on them is a "West Germany" stamping on the inner side of the wheel.

If anybody knows anything about these wheels please share!

I will post pictures over the weekend.

lkchris · #2 12-15-2006, 02:53 PM

Doubt you'll find them elsewhere.

AVON did make some tires in this size at one time.

Some '80s Mustangs used them.

Had them from new on an '83 BMW 533i. They were the worst tire I've ever experienced--they were completely traction-free and VERY dangerous.

The notion of "performance" tires and wheels on a diesel W123 is hilarious in any event.

Veloce300DT · #3 12-15-2006, 09:41 PM

My reasoning for messing with these TRX wheels & tires is not for performance.
W123 617's are clearly NOT performance cars and would not effectively benefit from performance tires of any type; TRX or standard. However, W123's are quite STYLISH, as are the elusive 15" Bundts!, they are a little bit different...more agressive yet subtle. Those with a keen eye can see the clear visual differences of the 15" Bundts compared to 14" Bundts. 15"s are every bit as gorgeous as the 14" and then some. The set I have feature a nice deep dish and enlarged spoke holes which lend themselves to a crisper, sharper, agressive look. Quite handsome!

I dont mind forking over the $$$ for TRX tires... and in reality they are really quite healthy performers.. not sure what kind of driving you did with your BMW lkchris! They arent modern in any way, I'll give you that.. BUT their technology was well proven in their time, and performs reasonably well. Certainly no worse than my 14/6" wheels and 195/65/14 tires.

More over, these wheels are period correct, as are the TRX tires for my w123. Having things period correct is far more preferable to me than any other alternative, and TRX wheel/tire combo's are a RARE site on MB's..

Call me NUTS, but Im so down for TRX tires!... (the "Betamax of the tire world."

)

If I were being logical, I would sell these TRX 15.3" Bundts and go for a set of standard 15" Bundts. But then again, when it comes to cars & my w123 it has been nothing but illogical from an enthusiasts perspective.. the amt. of time and money I have put into it exceeds the value of the car 4-5 times over.... if I had been logical I would have invested in something more collectable. But there isnt an MB I love as much as the W123 617.952

Luke@tirerack · #4 12-18-2006, 08:44 AM

Coker Tire 800 251 6336