ML500 off road tires
I posted the following in the wheel and tire section and did not get much of a response:
I just returned from two weeks of off roading in Death Valley with my 2003 ML500. I destroyed two tires in two weeks. The tires were Dunlap 275/55 R17. Both tires had holes in the tread caused by rock impacts probably from going 30 to 50 mph on warshboard roads something I have been doing for years in other vehicles using light truck tires. The Dunlaps just do not have thick enough tread or sidewalls for this kind of use. I like them on the pavement in rain, snow or ice and I hate to give up on the VR rating, but this was a very bad experience. I had to plug them on a Desert dirt road 50 miles from the pavement, and then drive slowly to Las Vegas (the nearest place to get replacements). My thought is to buy new wheels and tires for off roading. What would be a good choice for LT tires and wheels. A little extra clearance would be nice, but I do not want to lose any turning radius or have a rubbing problem. I also am concerned about warrenty problems problems, and any chassis or safety problems. Any help or suggestions will be appreciated.
Bob
I am also wondering what effect a larger diameter tire would have on the Navigation System, ABS system and the ESP system. I am hoping that some off roaders in this section will have some information. Thank you.
Bob
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