New D697s fitted

[Tombie]

Well, had the D697s fitted today.
Finally an LT tyre and close to stock (12mm increase diameter) 265-60-18LT

Been out for a test run and they seem very nice.
Quiet at speed and grippy on the rock ledges near home.
53471

And yes, I went with the OWL out so people can tell it has something other than road rubber on!

53472

[TerryO]

Hi Tombie,

any chance of a photo including the tread pattern please.

cheers,
Terry

[Pedro_The_Swift]

This them Tombie?
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2012/11/505.jpg

[~Rich~]

Hi Tombie,

any chance of a photo including the tread pattern please.

cheers,
Terry

Yeah that is the important bit! :wasntme:

[Tombie]

Yes, that's them.
53480

I can fit my 'pinky' in the water channel.
53481

Shot with house key, D4 key for block size reference.
53482
53483

[TerryO]

It will be interesting to hear what they are like in 10,000k's, I put a set of 16" 694's on the D2a and they were great when new but got a bit loud after 10k.

Mind you so have the AT3's after 20k.

If you don't mind Tombie, how much were they each?

cheers,
Terry

[Gords]

Thanks mate,

Keep us in the loop as to how you find them next time they get off the black top! :D

Cheers,
Rob

[Tombie]

Quoted $345.00 each but got them cheaper through my LeasePlan.

[Domlis]

They look great. I had a pair on a 2011 prado and we loved them. Great around town and brilliant off road. We mainly do sand driving and we where tossing up between these and BFG we choose these because we thought they would be better in the city and we where right. Love them. can't wait to put a set on the D4

[Islandnomad]

These are what I should put on my D2a as it has 18's, how did they wear?

[Chops]

Mike, I can't see your pics, keeps telling me "no" :mad:

[LRD414]

Well, had the D697s fitted today.
So that's about 3.5 years Mike (if still on same set). How many km's & how are they wearing?
I've just past 31,000 and tread depth is 7mm with no issues so far.

Scott

[PerthDisco]

Mine were bought 04/13 at 94,000km and now at 147,000km and still heaps of life left. Well above the minimum marker and nice even wear unlike the OEMs that wore out on the edges first.

I always hoped I would get 80,000km out of them which looks possible.

I run them at 38psi on road.

Regular rotations and alignments are key.

Been great tyres on and off road. No chips etc.

[LandyAndy]

Mine were bought 04/13 at 94,000km and now at 147,000km and still heaps of life left. Well above the minimum marker and nice even wear unlike the OEMs that wore out on the edges first.

I always hoped I would get 80,000km out of them which looks possible.

I run them at 38psi on road.

Regular rotations and alignments are key.

Been great tyres on and off road. No chips etc.

How many tyres have you got and how do you rotate????
Ive just fitted a secondhand set of coopers,I have 4@10000km and 2 new.I fitted the best of the 4 used on the front,very little in it and the 2 newbies on the rear.Next rotation Im unsure,other 2 secondhandies on the front,swap the rears left to right????
I want to get away from not using the spare and buying 6 tyres when these 6 are done.Previous owner of the GOE wheels tells me he was getting 100000ks out of the AT3 Coopers with regular rotation at 10K.
Andrew

[PerthDisco]

I don't ask anymore as each has different opinion on rotate. I just figure something better than nothing. I get alignment at tyre power Osborne Park. I'm embarrassed to say my spare is original and has never been used. It is a different diameter. It would do for a quick change in city. I bought a 6th last year with a Cooper of same diameter as D697 for long trips. Never had a flat in 697s.

[Tombie]

I just run the tyres on the vehicle until they're ready to change, then the spare goes on the vehicle and a new spare goes on the back.

Have not rotated a tyre on a vehicle in 20 years...

[letherm]

I usually do front to rear and vice versa. I don't move them across to the other side and keep the spare as a spare only. I used to rotate the spare in until I had a delamination incident many years ago when steel belted radials were fairly new. We were on a trip up to Queensland and the left rear blew as I was overtaking a car going around a bend. It was two lanes each way and fortunately I had gotten past the other car and was going back into the left lane. By the time we got down to Queenbean the rest of the tyres all had bumps and I replaced the lot, not willing to risk it. Since then, rightly or wrongly, I haven't been comfortable reversing the direction the tyre rotates which is why the right tyres stay on that side and vice versa. Maybe tyre technology is past this issue but that's my two cents worth.

Martin

[Tombie]

So that's about 3.5 years Mike (if still on same set). How many km's & how are they wearing?
I've just past 31,000 and tread depth is 7mm with no issues so far.

Scott



First set got 76,000km when I pulled the whole lot off and fitted a new set of 5 with my new wheels.

They're now doing duty on the Camper and 2 spares sitting in the shed.. All have at least 5mm of tread left.

The new set, have only done 14,000km are worn about 1-2mm and I had my first puncture in 25 years about 4,000km ago (steel spike at 110km/h). The replacement was put on the left rear..

[Tombie]

I usually do front to rear and vice versa. I don't move them across to the other side and keep the spare as a spare only. I used to rotate the spare in until I had a delamination incident many years ago when steel belted radials were fairly new. We were on a trip up to Queensland and the left rear blew as I was overtaking a car going around a bend. It was two lanes each way and fortunately I had gotten past the other car and was going back into the left lane. By the time we got down to Queenbean the rest of the tyres all had bumps and I replaced the lot, not willing to risk it. Since then, rightly or wrongly, I haven't been comfortable reversing the direction the tyre rotates which is why the right tyres stay on that side and vice versa. Maybe tyre technology is past this issue but that's my two cents worth.



Martin



Agree 100%.

[shanegtr]

I rotate my 6 tyres every 10,000. Fronts go to the rears, rears to the spare. Spares cross sides and then go to the front. Never had an issue with the tyres due to the change in direction thing

[Tombie]

A couple of tyre store mates of mine will only go front to rear and vice versa- they also disagree with a tyre being run the opposite direction.

[Disco-tastic]

I usually rotate every service (10k km on my old camry). When i get new tyres the best of the old ones becomes the spare and i get 4 new. No problems running tyres opposite directions, though this was only on a sedan, not a 2.6t 4wd.

Havent had to rotate the D3s tyres yet, but when i go from hwy to all terrains i will probably get 5 newies or 4 newies and a 2nd hand spare.

Im not very comfortable putting a 3 or 4 year old tyre thats sat underneath the car on with 3 other new tyres - id rather have 4 new ones with a random spare to get me out of trouble, until i can get a new tyre. Then, depending on how old the tyres are, i buy two new tyres for the front. The next best 2 go on the back and the third best is the new spare. I can always keep the other spare in the shed.

Cheers

Dan

[Tombie]

I have no issues with a 3 yr old tyre going onto the vehicle. I wouldn't fit it once yet hit 5 though [emoji41]

My average is to wear out a set to my level for changing (~5mm tread and they're gone) so a tyre only gets a 24-36 months life on my vehicles so will never be older than 6 when removed.

[BMKal]

A couple of tyre store mates of mine will only go front to rear and vice versa- they also disagree with a tyre being run the opposite direction.

Do you know what their reasoning is for this. Barbagallos in Perth have told me the same thing. I haven't asked my tyre bloke in Kalgoorlie who has supplied all tyres I have bought for the two Disco's.

[letherm]

Do you know what their reasoning is for this. Barbagallos in Perth have told me the same thing. I haven't asked my tyre bloke in Kalgoorlie who has supplied all tyres I have bought for the two Disco's.

Hi BMKal.

I believe that the issue is that reversing the direction of rotation when you swap a tyre from one side to another may cause loss of integrity of the bands in the tyre. In may cause the tread separated from the casing causing tyre failure. I'm not sure whether it's the same issue now but I have been advised over the years that it's preferable not to swap tyres between sides.

Martin

[LandyAndy]

I will consult the forum gear cruncher for information:):):):)
Andrew

[V8Ian]

Good on you Andy. I'm not sure how gear grinding qualifications translate to tyre guru, but here goes.
I never change the direction of rotation, for reasons already expressed previously.
In my humble opinion, uneven tyre wear is generally caused by the following, either in combination or singularly.

1: Mechanical issues such as tyre pressure, ball joints, tie rod ends, bushes, buckled wheels or misalignment.

2: Driving style.

3: Tyre design and/or compound.

Point three is the only one over which a vehicle owner has little to no control.
The more aggressive the tread pattern, the more susceptible the tyre will be to noise and scalloping, due to squirming of the tread blocks.
Tyres that look identical outwardly, even coming from the same mould, can differ in compound from batch to batch.
Some tyres are designed with a softer compound (usually high performance types) on the shoulders than the centre, these tyres can be prone to shoulder wear.

[scarry]

With the D4,D2,i have always rotated and changed rotation direction,never had an issue,mainly been BFG.

With the work vans,front to rear never works well as the front left always chews out,so we have always rotated tyres in a way that also changes rotation direction.

In the last few years we have changed to Dunlop silica something type,and have had about six failures out of three sets.Bridgestones or Kumho,and the older model Dunlop,we never ever had issues.
The failures have been similar,large lump in tread area,usually always at around 60000K to 75000K.
We have used the same supplier,and they have sent the tyres back,but there is no comment from manufacturer.They say the pressures we run and the way we rotate is fine.

Maybe they are wrong,rotating the direction they run may be the issue.

[letherm]

The failures have been similar,large lump in tread area,usually always at around 60000K to 75000K.


This is exactly what happened to my tyres.

Martin

[LandyAndy]

Thanks Ian.
I thought all the miles you have done steering tucks you would have a good idea what happens when tyres are reversed.
Andrew

[Russrobe]

I've finally decided and i'm going to go with the 697's too Tombie. Really wanted the BFG's but can't justify paying nearly double the price. Ordered and fitting sometime this week, because i'm not game enough to do Gordons level 1a and 1b course on road tyres next week!=D

Only bummer is the 285 60 18LT has no white lettering:( Oh well..

Russ

[Meken]

I've done Gordon's mud/Rock course & sand course on the scorpions zero m&s (equal to ht )

[Russrobe]

I've done Gordon's mud/Rock course & sand course on the scorpions zero m&s (equal to ht )

Ah yep, I need 5 new tyres anyway before venturing out as my spare is an original 255 and everything on the car is 265 atm....

Basically i'm looking for any excuse to put bigger/AT tyres on i think!

[Tombie]

You'll notice it. It will dull down the vehicle a noticeable amount going to the 285...

[Aaron40]

You'll notice it. It will dull down the vehicle a noticeable amount going to the 285...

Hi Tombie, by dull down do you mean with acceleration because of the larger diameter tyre?

[RobA]

OK let me add the last 8600km of experience to this discussion. As you will know we have D697's on GOE rims and 265/60's. So over the last eight weeks we have towed the Ulti up the main drag to Darwin doing several interesting dirt tracks along the way including the Finke. Refer my Follow Me section for the details.

Now in Kununurra for the second time as we lap the Kimberley. Done all dirt roads so far including; Drysdale, Mitchell Falls, Gibb River West to East, ELQ, Nt Hart and Mornington Wilderness Sanctuary amongst other places. All towing the Ulti and the D4 reasonably heavily loaded

Pressures on bitumen have been 38F, 48R and 38 in the camper. Off bitumen have been 24F, 28R and 24 in the camper.

Condition of tyres is excellent given the rocks, stoney roads, corrugations, low range rock crawling and towing they have done. Estimated at 20% worn with mild chipping on the rears which have been doing all the really hard work.

No hint of any problems and the car had a full F&R alignment and balance at Solitaire in Adelaide prior to departure and no sign of any issues relating to balance and/or alignment

Rob

[LandyAndy]

Yes Aaron.I had the same issue in my D2.
I parked next to a 200 Series today,it had 285/60x18 highway tyres.They are a big tyre compared to my 265/60 tyres.
Andrew

[Tombie]

Hi Tombie, by dull down do you mean with acceleration because of the larger diameter tyre?



Yep.. Off the line, up hills, sand and towing.

And whether or not you like it it will impact TC offroad as the leverage of the larger radius will impact response (reaction over distance) and wear

And not sure where you are but if you ever intend to use chains they won't fit without doing major damage.

[Islandnomad]

Tombie did you put a second set of D697's on when you changed over your tyres?

[Tombie]

Tombie did you put a second set of D697's on when you changed over your tyres?



Yes - with the new wheels went new D697s.

The old wheels and original D697s then have been fitted to the camper as they still have >5mm of tread left.

Gives me 10 wheel and tyre units all suited to the vehicle and camper.

Only thing they struggle on is really sloppy mud... And then it's a case of airing down if it's got no bottom to find traction or stay aired up slow down a bit if it's got a solid base. Then just some occasional throttle to clear the tread.

[Islandnomad]

Pretty good recommendation for the D697's if you've gone with them again then. Thanks Tombie!

[Russrobe]

Hmmm starting to second guess the 285 60s now. Lucky i only paid $1020 for 5. Hopefully the egr block helps pick it up a bit...

[Tombie]

All opinion - just prepare accordingly.

[gghaggis]

Hmmm starting to second guess the 285 60s now. Lucky i only paid $1020 for 5. Hopefully the egr block helps pick it up a bit...

I have 2 sets of 285/60R18 and a set of 275/65R18, plus two sets of STD 255/55R19. With the 2.7 ltr D3, I noticed the lowered performance and slightly more wheel scramble off-road. With the 3 ltr D4 and Sport on the 285's, there was no noticeable change in traction control, and little in it on-road. Fuel consumption increased though.

The 275/65R18 is a different story, but a slight change to the way you approach off road driving lessens the impact.

Cheers

Gordon

[Babs]

I have 2 sets of 285/60R18 and a set of 275/65R18, plus two sets of STD 255/55R19. With the 2.7 ltr D3, I noticed the lowered performance and slightly more wheel scramble off-road. With the 3 ltr D4 and Sport on the 285's, there was no noticeable change in traction control, and little in it on-road. Fuel consumption increased though. The 275/65R18 is a different story, but a slight change to the way you approach off road driving lessens the impact. Cheers Gordon

Gordon, what do you mean by wheel scramble Offroad?

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[gghaggis]

On severe rock climbs, the D3 traction system couldn't quite control wheel spin with the 285/60R18 tyres. The D4 has a better braking system hence better traction control.

Cheers

Gordon

[Babs]

On severe rock climbs, the D3 traction system couldn't quite control wheel spin with the 285/60R18 tyres. The D4 has a better braking system hence better traction control. Cheers Gordon

Ah thanks, it was raising concerns for me :)

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[David47]

Could someone please explain why you rotate the wheels when Land Rover advises against it.
David

[Tombie]

Could someone please explain why you rotate the wheels when Land Rover advises against it.

David



I don't, never have, never will and always get even wear out of my rubber...

I do run 3-4 psi above placard rating all the time though as I have a lot of gear fitted.

Just today ran a tread gauge over my tyres..

All equal at 7mm of tread per tyre inner/centre/outer for all 4 road tyres. Spare is at 9mm (new; never roaded)

[Russrobe]

I don't, never have, never will and always get even wear out of my rubber...

I do run 3-4 psi above placard rating all the time though as I have a lot of gear fitted.

Just today ran a tread gauge over my tyres..

All equal at 7mm of tread per tyre inner/centre/outer for all 4 road tyres. Spare is at 9mm (new; never roaded)
Wheel alignment every 10k kms too Tombie? Was wondering whether or not being offroad throws it out more often....

[Tombie]

Wheel alignment every 10k kms too Tombie? Was wondering whether or not being offroad throws it out more often....



Vehicle has had 2 wheel alignments in 4.5 years...
Last one was when the new rubber/wheels went on.

It needed only the slightest of adjustment at that time.

Depending on how the vehicle is used there is potential for needing them more often. I don't "touch park" etc so I seem to to get a longer run.

[Russrobe]

Fitted mine yesterday=D Gone from looking like a car to an actual 4x4! Not that bad without the white writing, still would have preferred it.

[Narangga]

Fitted mine yesterday=D Gone from looking like a car to an actual 4x4! Not that bad without the white writing, still would have preferred it.

Just so you could find it again after washing the mud off? :angel:

[LRD414]

Fitted mine yesterday=D Gone from looking like a car to an actual 4x4! Not that bad without the white writing, still would have preferred it.
You know the rules .....
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/279.jpg

Cheers,
Scott

[Russrobe]

You know the rules .....
https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/279.jpg

Cheers,
Scott
Something else happened too;)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/278.jpg

P.s Anaconda has 20% off Waeco... Wallet emptying fast...

[Tombie]

Looks good...

On a side note:
When I had the latest D697s fitted they were balanced conventionally using steel stick on weights.

Over time a few had been flicked off, lost etc so I decided to try ABC Balancing beads...

Great concept, and several locals have used them in normal road vehicles and trucks with great success.. On the D4 it resulted in a continual shimmy.

Well... Today we spent an hour removing the wheels, vacuuming out the beads, refitting the tyres and dynamic balancing with steel wheel weights... [emoji41]

Took it out on a private road and not a shake or vibration up to a steady $1.60.

But it was worth a try..

[LRD414]

When I had the latest D697s fitted they were balanced conventionally using steel stick on weights.

Over time a few had been flicked off, lost etc so I decided to try ABC Balancing beads ..... On the D4 it resulted in a continual shimmy.
Good to know thanks.
I have wondered about the steel weights when I noticed that there seemed to be the odd one missing.
However, I'd forgotten that I had the wheels rebalanced and realigned after the original fitment was a bit average.
It's something worth keeping an eye on ....

Scott

[LandyAndy]

They look good.How does it drive with the larger circumfrence tyres????
Andrew

[Aaron40]

Something else happened too;)

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/278.jpg

P.s Anaconda has 20% off Waeco... Wallet emptying fast...

They look great! Are they 285/60 r18's?

[Russrobe]

Yep 285 60s. No rubbing noticed yet, even in reverse full lock.

I think it's definitely lost some acceleration Andy. Thing is they're that quick for a large 4x4 that it's not going to bother me. Will use this one 90% for touring/day trips anyway. If it was a daily i might be more disheartened...

Nice one Tombie, I was a bit annoyed when I saw those on instead of stick ons, now not so much.

Haven't attempted puting the spare under yet.https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/277.jpg


Fyi theres 1 coat of Zaino CS clear protectant on there if you've noticed how shiny the car is, 2 more coats to come before paint shield! 15mins a coat 24 hours between...

[LRD414]

Russ, off-topic but what happened with your gearbox issues?

Scott

[Russrobe]

Russ, off-topic but what happened with your gearbox issues?

Scott
Still ongoing believe it or not. Going to a transmission shop next week finally to be stripped. It would be there this week but i wanted the car for Gordons course this week so put it back.

Think they finally gave up looking at other possible causes after the transfer case was swapped out.

[Babs]

Yep 285 60s. No rubbing noticed yet, even in reverse full lock. I think it's definitely lost some acceleration Andy. Thing is they're that quick for a large 4x4 that it's not going to bother me. Will use this one 90% for touring/day trips anyway. If it was a daily i might be more disheartened... Nice one Tombie, I was a bit annoyed when I saw those on instead of stick ons, now not so much. Haven't attempted puting the spare under yet. Fyi theres 1 coat of Zaino CS clear protectant on there if you've noticed how shiny the car is, 2 more coats to come before paint shield! 15mins a coat 24 hours between...


Looks good Russrobe.

Do you have Llams installed?

Do you have a reflash/remap done?

How much loss of power do you think you have lost, I am assuming it's only from take off.

Does anyone have any comments regarding the bigger tyres and power loss. Will a DPL remap more than accommodate the power lost from bigger diameter tyres.

I'll put questions up regarding this in my thread, don't want to hijack.

Re: the balancing, I'm not a fan of the metal weights that go over the bead, they're a lot easier to loose, have had them pop off when Offroad previously.

The little stick on squares seem to work well. I'm not sure wether they are going to be in the way with the GOE 18" rims being on the inside of the rim and minimal space between brake calliper?

Do you guys think the D697's would be smoother and less noisy compared to BFG KO2's?

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[LandyAndy]

His is a 2.7 6 speed,so more likely to suffer than the 3.0 8 speeds;);););)
Andrew

[LRD414]

I'm not sure wether they are going to be in the way with the GOE 18" rims being on the inside of the rim and minimal space between brake calliper?
No problem with the stick-on weights clearance on the GOE rims but always possible for them to be knocked off, say in sand etc.


Do you guys think the D697's would be smoother and less noisy compared to BFG KO2's?
Yes D697s less noisy but the KO2s are not necessarily intrusive, it depends on how much this bothers you. There is commentary on noise in the KO2 thread.

Scott

[Babs]

His is a 2.7 6 speed,so more likely to suffer than the 3.0 8 speeds;);););) Andrew

Cheers Andrew :)

Still have a few more questions back over on my thread :)

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[Tombie]

His is a 2.7 6 speed,so more likely to suffer than the 3.0 8 speeds;);););)

Andrew



I doubt that Andy! I have a very nicely remapped 2.7 that makes more power and torque than a base 3.0 [emoji41]

[Russrobe]

Just trying to put that spare under now... Wonder if i have to take the tow hitch off. It's pretty tight got it up past it but it on a bit of an angle so not in the slot totally. I let the air out already. ..

[scarry]

I doubt that Andy! I have a very nicely remapped 2.7 that makes more power and torque than a base 3.0 [emoji41]

And can run 17's if needed:D


Gotta rub it in when we can…....;)

[~Rich~]

I had to remove the heat shield to squeeze it in deflated, at that time I decided a RWC was the way to go!

[Russrobe]

Do you have Llams installed?
Yep that was the other thing i did on the weekend thanks to Graeme and his fast shipping!

Do you have a reflash/remap done?
Nope, but after Tombie's comments it will be getting done.

How much loss of power do you think you have lost, I am assuming it's only from take off.
Just noticed it needed a little more throttle. Not much though.
If you have the 3.0l like Andy and Gordon said I wouldn't be wasting my time worrying about power loss. Mine is a 2.7

BFG KO2's would be great, if they were not double the price....

[Russrobe]

I had to remove the heat shield to squeeze it in deflated, at that time I decided a RWC was the way to go!
Yeah i don't think im going to bother trying the shield Rich. It just failed the night time driveway test run so rwc it is.

[Tombie]

BFG Tyres are over-rated, handle poorly, and very susceptible to chipping.

They aren't worth half what they're charging for them.

[Aaron40]

Yeah i don't think im going to bother trying the shield Rich. It just failed the night time driveway test run so rwc it is.

Gordon reckons you will get it in deflated.

[Russrobe]

Gordon reckons you will get it in deflated.
He does also mention removing the heat shield too so might do that as mentioned above. Tyre seems to get very close to the exhaust without it though...

[Graeme]

I haven't noticed any handling vices with my KO2s in the 20K they've done so far. No chipping either but only local gravel roads, nothing serious.

[scarry]

BFG Tyres are over-rated, handle poorly, and very susceptible to chipping.

They aren't worth half what they're charging for them.

Does any won who actually runs these tyres,particularly theAT KO2 have these issues?

Sure they are expensive,but sometimes you only get what you pay for,but correct,compared with similar tyres they are waayy over.

The old KO did chip badly in some situations,but so do many tyres.Apart from this,as I have said before, have never had an issue.And one puncture from a large tech screw not to bad after running them for over 13yrs,on different vehicles.

Actually all these years of carting two spares around in remote areas has actually been a waste of space and weight,although on the last Desert crossing I only took a carcass as a second spare.

Sure,the one time I don't take that second spare,I know what will happen:mad:

[Tombie]

I think you'll find many won't really know yet.
Most people are domestic travellers until they do a reasonable trip where speed/gibber/gravel etc becomes prevalent.

One thing I always found BFG to do in urban (and down near Mt Gambier where logging trucks depress the roads) is tram track.
Has this improved on the new model (or have the vehicles improved [emoji13]).

Hard to ask the guys here as the roads aren't anywhere like major city thoroughfares and subject to the depressions.

[Babs]

Does any won who actually runs these tyres,particularly theAT KO2 have these issues? Sure they are expensive,but sometimes you only get what you pay for,but correct,compared with similar tyres they are waayy over. The old KO did chip badly in some situations,but so do many tyres.Apart from this,as I have said before, have never had an issue.And one puncture from a large tech screw not to bad after running them for over 13yrs,on different vehicles. Actually all these years of carting two spares around in remote areas has actually been a waste of space and weight,although on the last Desert crossing I only took a carcass as a second spare. Sure,the one time I don't take that second spare,I know what will happen:mad:


Like it has been stated they are too new to know.
I have heard mixed reviews on the new style KO2.

I can say I had plenty of experience with the old style AT's and MT's and they were tough.
The AT's performed extremely well in all aspects.

My most recent favourites had been the Cooper ST Maxx I really can't fault them they are amazing Offroad.
I had tried the STT's MT and sold them with approximately 10k klm on them, hated them, they drove like crap and were extremely noisy.

Anyways the tyre in question is the BFG KO2
Based on their reputation and my experiences with them in the past I am going to stick with them.

I really had a liking to the D697 they look like a real good all round performer, but I don't want to make a mistake and find out they're not going to offer me the traction I need.
My farm is in mountainous country with peaks up to 1400 m above sea level. When it's wet it's challenging to say the least. I already know the BFG AT will perform and I don't want to get the D697's to find out their not up to the job in those particular conditions.

The BFG KO2 has had rigorous testing and if there was problems with their first release, the company is big enough to have already addressed the problems and rectified them.

I read the odd review when they were first released and it was mixed. To be honest I haven't heard anything bad since.

If someone can produce current poor reviews on the BFG KO2 it would be good to read, so we are not contemplating hearsay.

The D697 is only a two ply sidewall 2,000 denier, 1,000 denier each ply. (When I rang Bridgestone and questioned the tyre tech on this he kind of went quiet, up to that point he was happy telling me about all the good points that's in the marketing brochure)

BFG KO2 is a 3 ply sidewall 3,000 denier 1,000 denier each ply.

Cooper ST Max is a 3 ply sidewall 5,000 denier first two plies 2,000 denier each, third cross ply is 1,000 denier. (Hence my great confidence in them) it's a shame they are not available in a size to suit D4.

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[Russrobe]

The sidewall in the 697 would have to be so weak that you destroy 4 tyres before you broke even on the cost of the BFGs... I plan on taking 2 spares anyway no matter what the brand. You never know when lucks going to run dry.. The quartz that went straight through my Goodyear Wrangler MTs last month near Cooktown was that sharp and strong it would have gone through a 10 ply sidewall....

[shanegtr]

I've had probably 3x the punctures in the tread area compared to the sidewalls over the years. Be interesting to see how my 697's go for it as I've had several rock fractures in the tread in the previous 694 (all in the rear tyres)

[Tombie]

If ANYONE can find the picture that was posted here of the D697 sidewall profile cut vs a Cooper and re-post it they will be surprised.

Ply rating needs a bit of context and understanding...

Glad you've enjoyed your run with both tyre brands - don't kid yourself though that they're fixing faults - I have several contacts in the tyre game and BFG haven't fixed faults in their product that have been happening for 10 years and still are.

Poopers - no one here will run them, we removed them from Mine Vehicles, the 4wd club members won't run them.... And the local tyre shops generally won't recommend them...

And remember a review is heresay- I can personally introduce you to "live reviews" and personal experience with having had vehicles running these other brands.

Bridgestone, Toyo, MickeyT and Goodyear all do very well...

[Russrobe]

Ever heard of someone running over an Echidna? It happens...I've seen the damage. 2 tyres destroyed in under a second.... Not even fixable....

[LandyAndy]

Ever heard of someone running over an Echidna? It happens...I've seen the damage. 2 tyres destroyed in under a second.... Not even fixable....
Yep,my Mrs once ran one over.She said she didnt,8 spines in the right front tells me she did!!!!
At least the back one was OK,found the owner of the spines later that day,unfortunately he didnt make it:(:(:(:(:(:(
Andrew

[LRD414]

Bridgestone, Toyo, MickeyT and Goodyear all do very well...
I have actually wondered why no one mentions the Goodyear Duratrac in 265/60/R18 on here (only in 19" discussions).

Scott

[scarry]

Back to the OP,there is even a size for series vehicles.:D


https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/234.jpg (https://picturepush.com/public/15076593)

Picked these up second hand off gum tree,won't mention what they were replaced with.:D;)

Seem to go pretty well,no punctures,handle well at high speed,particularly in the wet;)

That is if you can see through the windscreen,those wipers:(

No complaints at all

Come on Tombie,'local tyre shops generally don't recommend them',that is the opposite up here,the ones that don't recommend them are the shops that can't source them at a good buying price.The Beaurepair chain is one of those tyre shops.
You obviously haven't spoken to any mechanical repair shops on the Cape either.BFG are one of the few tyre brands they recommend.

Anyway,just my 2 cents worth:D

Lets hear from people on here that actually run them,a couple of comments already have been favourable.

Waiting for some bad comments or reports.

Price seems to be the main complaint.


Forget about product reviews,they are generally full of trash,typing in Land Rover doesn't take long to work that out.;)

[Grentarc]

I have actually wondered why no one mentions the Goodyear Duratrac in 265/60/R18 on here (only in 19" discussions).

Scott
Probably because it isn't a LT tyre?

[Tombie]

I like feedback from people who run them...

What would be really good would be context of use.. Where, how often, speeds etc..

BFG has always been the benchmark for all tyre brands.

[Babs]

Ha ha ha :) the echidna stories. Poor little fellow.

Tombie I want to try them the D697's but I'm just not convinced yet.

When I rang my tyre guy today and asked about the D697's he shut it down straight away and said quote "stick with the BFG's there a better tyre" I didn't ask why and he didn't elaborate.

Maybe he makes more out of BFG maybe not, he quoted me $20 cheaper than everyone else. He did say he had BFG's in stock and not the D697's.

I need a little massaging before I take the leap of faith with the D697's.

It'll be good to hear some real reviews on either.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Russrobe]

Yep,my Mrs once ran one over.She said she didnt,8 spines in the right front tells me she did!!!!
At least the back one was OK,found the owner of the spines later that day,unfortunately he didnt make it:(:(:(:(:(:(
Andrew
She got lucky Andy. The one i saw had about the same in the front plus another 4 in the rear.

[Tombie]

Depending on your farm surface - I'm not sure any AT is going to work for you when wet.

The D4 will be sitting at 2.7t so will be different to a Defender on the same tyres.

Perhaps some muddies for the farm run?

[LandyAndy]

Ive got the Cooper AT3 265/60 on mine.They were bought with the GOE wheels,rears are brand new,fronts and 2 spares are at 10000km.Cant report much yet,definately a smother ride than the factory tyres.After a set of Cooper S/T tyres on my D2 I vowed never to buy cooper tyres again.Will see how they go.
Coincedently my work ute has the AT3 in 245/65X16.Dont know how many ks as we got the ute off a neighbor shire.Its done LOTS of gravel ks with them,judging by the paint scoured off everywhere as they are bigger than a Colarado should wear.Ive done 20000km in it,I carry 400lt of diesel around all the time.Tyre wear is very good,coming up for replacement,no bad chipping that I can see.For a tyre that would have spent at least half,if not more of its life on gravel they have stood up well.
Andrew

[Babs]

Depending on your farm surface - I'm not sure any AT is going to work for you when wet. The D4 will be sitting at 2.7t so will be different to a Defender on the same tyres. Perhaps some muddies for the farm run?

Bulldozed tracks, shale, slippery slopes.

I've only had the Coopers on the farm and they have all been on different vehicles, and they have gotten me where I have to get to. In the real wet I don't go up top way too steep and slippery. With lower pressure the ST Maxx got me around reliably.

If they were available in the sizes I need I wouldn't even be talking tyres.

I'm not one for changing tyres for different conditions, I'm that lazy that I sold the defender because I didn't want to change gears let alone tyres. Ha ha ha :D

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[Tombie]

What speeds most of the time on the gravel Andy?

Tyre wear is a shocking measure of quality - what you want is grip and a lifespan of not more than about 4-5 years of average use.

Gravel is a very gentle surface for tyres.. Loose rock +13mm is a nastier proposition.
Add some pace and tyres get a hiding.

AT3 is Poopers knock off of the ATZ Mickey - a proven performer - and has a lot of rubber on the road and large blocks so less prone to chipping compared to ST Slaxx etc..

With tyres it remains that American Rubber formulations are generally less resilient than Japanese rubber formulations.

If they could supply an MT or AT for my vehicle I would run Toyo in a heartbeat...

[LandyAndy]

Shrek,no Im going to start calling you BFG(Big Friendly Giant:p:p:p:p:p)
The gravel isnt a soft loving surface,its very abrasive.We were having to buy the more expensive Dunlop Cargo 15"lt tyres for my previous work ute,40K MAX,I did a set of Kumo LTs in 20K.
Speeds.normally 100 is plenty,late finish this arvo,40km trip in on gravel.Wasnt fun,120 was too fast,would have had around 150lts of diesel left in the tank,it wasnt helping out much on bends:twisted::twisted::twisted::twisted:
Andrew

[Babs]

http://youtu.be/ueVenJIMEik

Can anyone tell what the other two brands of tyre are?

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[shanegtr]

http://youtu.be/ueVenJIMEik

Can anyone tell what the other two brands of tyre are?

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

Not really a hard guess is it

Sent from my GT-I9505 using AULRO mobile app

[Babs]

Brand "G" is the BGF AT

I can't make out brand "C" ?

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Tombie]

Hint G is for Goodrich
C is for........

And it's their AT3

[Babs]

Hint G is for Goodrich C is for........ And it's their AT3

Cheers Tombie.

It would have been good if the did the Cooper ST Maxx "like for like" LT construction.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Tombie]

AT3 in the size tested is LT...

All tyres have same load rating, were at same pressures on same model 7.5" rim.

All were 265-75-16

[Babs]

Ok. Just had a call back from Bridgestone tech.

Last time I called within the last 12 months they had a tech department, this time I had to leave my number and wait for a call back.

Just had second call back in the middle of typing this.

The info I just received is based on the D697 285/60-18

It's an 8ply LT with a 2 ply sidewall 1,500 denier each ply so a total of 3,000 denier.

So the D697 achieves the same thickness sidewall as BFG in 2 ply as opposed to BFG 3ply.

Speed and load ratings are the same as the BFG KO2. Which is 118 S

The Bridgestone tech rep exampled the BGF & Coopers as the benchmark, this is what they compare their tyres to.

So Offroad ability he said the D697 are " just as good as BFG" but did not claim they were better.
On road he said they were "just as good if not better"

He claimed that they were definitely more quiet than the two competitors.

I'm still convinced from experience, tyre load and ply that the Cooper ST Maxx are far superior but I have to leave this one out of the equation as they don't have my size.

So the toss up for me and most others looking will be BGF KO2 vs D697 mmmmm?

Load and speed ratings are the same, denier sidewall thickness is the same just achieved different. The D697 are more quiet but from the conversation I had with rep he still didn't convince me they were better Offroad.

Let me see, now we are comparing these two to go on a D4 which is a luxury vehicle. I believe the D697 would handle road conditions wet or dry better than the BFG, just by looking at them you can tell, they almost look like a highway tyre.
We know they are more quiet.

So at the end of the day the conservative smart choice would be the D697 as most of us spend most of our time on road. But who said I was smart :)

The aggressiveness of the BFG IMOP would have the edge in the rough stuff, but wheel placement and care could make up for that?

Mmmmm? The BFG do look good with there new design sidewall. Choices choices choices.

Let me know your thoughts?

The only thing hanging over BFG's head at the moment is those few bad reviews on the new version KO2. ?????

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[Disco Muppet]

We run both BFG ATs and 697s on the Toyotas at work. On road the Bridgestones are far superior.
The BFGs have chipped badly, and are crap in sloppy mud. They slipped all about the place after the wet in Nyngan but then again so did every tyre out there.
I had the duelers slip a bit in very thick sloppy mud but they still pulled through it fine with a measured amount of right boot.

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[Russrobe]

So when i found out it was going to cost me between $1680-1900 for a single rwc this happenedhttps://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/204.jpg

So they DO fit under a D4 without removing the heat shield. I just had to angle the front side in first then squeeze it up past the tow point in increments. Few turns then a push repeat x 4...

[Russrobe]

Also i guarantee you will struggle to do what i just did with your spare if you have other brands. There's no way i could flex the General Grabbers that much with my foot... There's zero give in those.
In 285 60 that is

[LandyAndy]

Did you have to deflate it???
Can you still fit the tow hitch and safety chains????
Cheers
Andrew

[Russrobe]

Did you have to deflate it???
Can you still fit the tow hitch and safety chains????
Cheers
Andrew
Well i think so Andy... That's all I've got. There's no extra room at the back that's all as tyres hard up. https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/202.jpg

Tyre is flat yep. Air compressor permanently in the back anyway though.

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/203.jpg

Easiest tick off the list so far that one.

[kero]

Babs.
What about the Maxxis AT 980 in 265/60/18?

Kero.

[scarry]

Ok. Just had a call back from Bridgestone tech.

Last time I called within the last 12 months they had a tech department, this time I had to leave my number and wait for a call back.

Just had second call back in the middle of typing this.

The info I just received is based on the D697 285/60-18

It's an 8ply LT with a 2 ply sidewall 1,500 denier each ply so a total of 3,000 denier.

So the D697 achieves the same thickness sidewall as BFG in 2 ply as opposed to BFG 3ply.

Speed and load ratings are the same as the BFG KO2. Which is 118 S

The Bridgestone tech rep exampled the BGF & Coopers as the benchmark, this is what they compare their tyres to.

So Offroad ability he said the D697 are " just as good as BFG" but did not claim they were better.
On road he said they were "just as good if not better"

He claimed that they were definitely more quiet than the two competitors.

I'm still convinced from experience, tyre load and ply that the Cooper ST Maxx are far superior but I have to leave this one out of the equation as they don't have my size.

So the toss up for me and most others looking will be BGF KO2 vs D697 mmmmm?

Load and speed ratings are the same, denier sidewall thickness is the same just achieved different. The D697 are more quiet but from the conversation I had with rep he still didn't convince me they were better Offroad.

Let me see, now we are comparing these two to go on a D4 which is a luxury vehicle. I believe the D697 would handle road conditions wet or dry better than the BFG, just by looking at them you can tell, they almost look like a highway tyre.
We know they are more quiet.

So at the end of the day the conservative smart choice would be the D697 as most of us spend most of our time on road. But who said I was smart :)

The aggressiveness of the BFG IMOP would have the edge in the rough stuff, but wheel placement and care could make up for that?

Mmmmm? The BFG do look good with there new design sidewall. Choices choices choices.

Let me know your thoughts?

The only thing hanging over BFG's head at the moment is those few bad reviews on the new version KO2. ?????

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There also seems to be a massive price difference between the two,which would push many to the 697's.

But for me,i would probably stay with what i know,why fix something that isn't broke.And the price difference is a fair bit less in 17's,that is if i stay with that size.

I decision i have to make in the next few months,as the tyres on mine are just about shagged.

Watching this thread with interest.

[LandyAndy]

17" gives you a better choice in Australia.We need to start using these importers to get the tyres we want.
My good mate Ron (Tailslide) just bought a new Deefer and spare steel rim.He couldnt get a new matching MTR in 235/85x16 in australia.,I had an old brand new spare plus 2 on the camper trailer that havent done more than 4000km,wasnt looking to sell him my spare so I looked them up and Tyroola who come up in our pop ups,they had them.Sent him the link,took just over a week for it to turn up.Ron is happy.
Seen lots of tyres on there we dont get,like 18" duratrac in LT.Have a look see.
Andrew

[Babs]

Babs. What about the Maxxis AT 980 in 265/60/18? Kero.

Kero I have never been a fan of Maxxis, I have always viewed them as a cheap tyre. But I suppose progress would have to take part in a decision and there seems to be quite a few who recommend Maxxis.

I'll look into them and report back

Do you know if they are LT construction and what ply?

If anyone has run them speak up and let us know cheers.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[LandyAndy]

Babs,Im much the same,especially living in the country.I only buy the premium brand tyres,had a really good run out of Goodyear.
It cost a fortune to put tyres on our Territory Turbo the other year.Went with the OEM wranglers.They were the only tyre that met the speed rating.
Andrew

[Grentarc]

Maxxis AT980
LT265/60R18
8 PR Load Index - 114/110S
LT285/60R18
8 PR Load Index - 118/115S

I haven't used them, but have always in the past had great experiences with Maxxis tyres, so I am keen to try the AT980 in 255/55R19 as it is the only LT 19" tyre

[LRD414]

Seen lots of tyres on there we dont get,like 18" duratrac in LT.Have a look see.

I have wondered about the Duratracs but was unsure if LT or AT in 18"
I assumed not LT but hadn't checked because no one mentions them in the 18" context.

And I saw it listed on Jax.

Scott

[Babs]

There a 10 ply in the 255/55-19 good load and speed



110576

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[Tombie]

There a 10 ply in the 255/55-19 good load and speed



110576

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner



Local to me D4 has just fitted a set. Will keep in contact with him...

[Grentarc]

Here is the thread about the Maxxis offering
http://www.aulro.com/afvb/showthread.php?p=2527212
They are 10 ply rated, not actually 10 ply

[Tombie]

Almost all tyres are PR not actual Plys.

[Grentarc]

Almost all tyres are PR not actual Plys.
That may be the case, but the Maxxis is only a 6 ply construction with a 10 PR - still only a 6 ply tyre, but should be much stronger than my Hankooks which are a 6 ply construction with no PR

[Russrobe]

Gordon should have a great video of mine on 2 wheels today=D Great tyre on the beach and any power loss with the 285s after a long test drive today is unnoticeable. Drives just like it did before.

[Babs]

Local to me D4 has just fitted a set. Will keep in contact with him...

Awesome Tombie, it will be good to hear :)

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[Disco-tastic]

Gordon should have a great video of mine on 2 wheels today=D Great tyre on the beach and any power loss with the 285s after a long test drive today is unnoticeable. Drives just like it did before.

Hehe i look forward to that video!

Cheers

Dan

[Babs]

Just saw some Grabbers on another thread. Got me thinking.

Has anyone ever come across 265/60-19 ?
In a LT would be great as well.

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[~Rich~]

265/60R19 - good luck finding any that size, let alone one in the bush.

[LandyAndy]

No such a size Babs.
Gordon once posted there is a slightly bigger 19" tyre available in europe as a winter tyre.Its no good here apparently,not hard or strong enough apparently.
Andrew

[Russrobe]

Nope doesn't exist that's the exact equivalent of the 285 60 18 and the reason i cant have a 19" second spare=(

[Babs]

Goodyear Wrangler AT Kevlar are available in a 255/60-19.

This could be an overseas option

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Tombie]

265/60R19 - good luck finding any that size, let alone one in the bush.



Nowadays we couldn't get 265-75-16 in the "bush".

Or even a stock Prado size.. From a major Regional.

[Russrobe]

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/06/110.jpg

Straight out of a mud rut yesterday. Seem to clean themselves out quite easy.

[Tombie]

They do. It's only clay slop that can challenge it a bit (especially around Coober Pedy when it torrents down)

[Russrobe]

This was clay too Tombie

[Tombie]

10km took an hour sliding from table drain to table drain!

Was bloody good fun! With a few clenching moments!

When I stopped all 4 guards were full with only a shear line to delineate where rotation had occurred..

[Narangga]

10km took an hour sliding from table drain to table drain!

Was bloody good fun! With a few clenching moments!

When I stopped all 4 guards were full with only a shear line to delineate where rotation had occurred..

Well Tombie I waited 48 hours for someone else to do this. All I can ask for is forgiveness :)

:ttiwwp:


Otherwise without pictures to show that your wheel arches were full of clay, we can only assume that they were, like the story, full of ... :angel:

:wasntme: :wasntme: :wasntme:

[LandyAndy]

Well Tombie I waited 48 hours for someone else to do this. All I can ask for is forgiveness :)

:ttiwwp:


Otherwise without pictures to show that your wheel arches were full of clay, we can only assume that they were, like the story, full of ... :angel:

:wasntme: :wasntme: :wasntme:

The BFG,full of ....
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D
Andrew

[Tombie]

I wish I had a pic to prove it.
All I have is the site manager who insisted it be hosed down straight away as the roads are usually watered with Saline bore water for dust control...

[Narangga]

I don't doubt it in the least. I just couldn't resist the play on words :D

Getting back to the thread - the D697's have been great so far and I hope to give them a more serious workout at the southern end of Kakadu towards the end of next week.

[Babs]

I don't doubt it in the least. I just couldn't resist the play on words :D Getting back to the thread - the D697's have been great so far and I hope to give them a more serious workout at the southern end of Kakadu towards the end of next week.


Can't wait for that report, it will be good to hear how they perform. Isn't it still wet there?

I'll be in NT next month.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Russrobe]

I'd say this looked so easy because of the 697's but truth be told it's because of Gordon's perfect guidance.

https://www.facebook.com/GreenOvalExperience/videos/1323254514354598/

The silver one is ours=)

P.S we were all still on road pressures.

[Disco-tastic]

Nice to see you're getting it dirty :) Is that llams +50 + off road height?

Cheers

Dan

[Russrobe]

Nice to see you're getting it dirty :) Is that llams +50 + off road height?

Cheers

Dan

Nah Dan, we kept everything to off road height only. Gordon reckons going any higher decreases the efficiency of the traction control. As you can see it must have triggered the extended offroad setting in the 2nd last turn as it starts to rise just before I finish and peaks as I pull up.

Still don't regret the llams as i use it to get the dog in the back at -30mm + access=D Plus a great backup should things fail. Mind you the rods would be just as good if not in our predicament...

[Disco-tastic]

Wow thats quite sensitive - mine takes ages to go into extended mode.

I actually bought a set of rods the other day. Fitting them this weekend before a trip out. I was going to run the car at +50 and leave the car in normal height, so it will be interesting to see if that affects the TR sensitivity.

Cheers

Dan

[Narangga]

Can't wait for that report, it will be good to hear how they perform. Isn't it still wet there?

I'll be in NT next month.

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The Wet was only two thirds of long term average so it is very dry right now. Also the lingering of El Nino means higher than normal minimums, maximums and humidity. :( :( :(

[Wallumbilla]

Do the D697's in 265/60 18 fit into the spare carrier without deflation?

[Tombie]

Do the D697's in 265/60 18 fit into the spare carrier without deflation?



Yes they do. Easily

[RobA]

Yes they do. Easily

Absolutely and one more plus for using this size tyre

Rob

[Narangga]

I don't doubt it in the least. I just couldn't resist the play on words :D

Getting back to the thread - the D697's have been great so far and I hope to give them a more serious workout at the southern end of Kakadu towards the end of next week.

We went to Gunlom Falls on Wednesday. Had lunch at Pine Creek on the way. Not having driven a D3 on dirt before I have nothing to compare it with other than the D2 which always performed admirably shod with 245/75 R16 Goodyear Wrangler Silent Armor.

However the difference between it and the D3 is stark. Certainly a pleasure to drive and the combination of vehicle and rubber was extremely sensitive and responsive on quite a corrugated and rocky surface - very similar to both the Gibb River Road & the Central Arnhem Road.

I don't know if other rubber would be better but the short foray with the D697's tells me that they will do me.

[Babs]

I'm waiting back for another reply off the Bridgestone Facebook page with regards to producing the D697 LT for a 19" rim. In either a 255/55R19 or a 265/60R19

Can we get a poll going for Bridgestone to produce a D697 to cater for the 19" rim❓

I wouldn't know how to go about starting a Poll❓

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[BMKal]

We went to Gunlom Falls on Wednesday. Had lunch at Pine Creek on the way.

Great area out that way - it's where I grew up. Went to school at Moline and spent plenty of time out around El-Sharana. "Gunlom" was called "UDP Falls" back in those days (before the tree huggers found out what UDP stood for ;).

There's some other very good falls in the area that you drove past to get to Gunlom, but mostly unknown to tourists and even the park rangers. I was surprised last time we were out that way that the ranger at Gunlom had never heard of the South Alligator Falls just up the road from there, nor the "Rockhole" and waterfall just off the road where you go up onto the escarpment after crossing the Mary River on the way in.

Will have to get back up there again one of these days. :D

[Babs]

This was the reply from Bridgestone

"No problem Mark. Our product specialist has just confirmed this for me. We know there is a good level of interest in this size and our engineers are currently looking into the design and technology options to get the strength of a Dueler product into a 55 series size.

I know this doesn't solve the problem immediately, but rest assured, we are working on it".

Stephen

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[Russrobe]

Bit disappointed, I've been on the beach for several hours now and am yet to get bogged once. Was sure my noobish 4x4 skills would get me bogged in no time. Made it up a nice steep and tall dune first attempt yesterday, same one i gave up on last weekend!

Might change after a few weeks without rain though!

[Narangga]

Great area out that way - it's where I grew up. Went to school at Moline and spent plenty of time out around El-Sharana. "Gunlom" was called "UDP Falls" back in those days (before the tree huggers found out what UDP stood for ;).

There's some other very good falls in the area that you drove past to get to Gunlom, but mostly unknown to tourists and even the park rangers. I was surprised last time we were out that way that the ranger at Gunlom had never heard of the South Alligator Falls just up the road from there, nor the "Rockhole" and waterfall just off the road where you go up onto the escarpment after crossing the Mary River on the way in.

Will have to get back up there again one of these days. :D

I have heard of the South Alligator Falls before but didn't know of their location.

There is no ranger at Gunlom - just a campsite manager employed under contract.

Some have heard of UDP though - but not many know what the acronym stands for ;)

[Tombie]

Uranium Development & Prospecting Co
[emoji41]

[BMKal]

I have heard of the South Alligator Falls before but didn't know of their location.

There is no ranger at Gunlom - just a campsite manager employed under contract.

Some have heard of UDP though - but not many know what the acronym stands for ;)

You would have driven right past the South Alligator Falls. They are about halfway between where you crossed the river and the Gunlom camping area. There used to be a sharp turn in the road - just behind that (on the escarpment side of the road) there was a collection of old tin buildings which, last time I was there, were very much overgrown and difficult to see unless you knew they were there. This was the crusher / mill for the old South Alligator gold mine - the mine itself was an almost horizontal shaft into the escarpment. Behind the crusher / mill buildings, there is a series of about 5 or 6 rockholes stepping down the escarpment - the falls between these are the South Alligator Falls. The mining company bulldozed an "access" road up the side of the rockholes in the late 1960's to gain access to the top of the escarpment. This ruined the rockholes and falls for many years, and people stopped going there. I went in there for a look a few years ago (the whole area is completely overgrown now and it was not easy to get in there and find my bearings). Nature has pretty much taken over and returned things to much as they were, and there is little evidence of the "access" ramp any more, unless you know what you are looking for.


Uranium Development & Prospecting Co
[emoji41]

Close .................. it stood for "Uranium Development Project". The company which held the leases for many years (and who my father worked for) was "United Uranium NL".

UDP Falls (as I knew it) featured as the last scene filmed in Australia in the original Crocodile Dundee movie - where Hogan was about to get into her pants when his mate turned up and interrupted proceedings. In this movie, the location was called "Waterfall Creek" (I think) - the name stuck for a while as the tree huggers hated the name UDP (once someone had explained to them what it actually stood for), until the trend of re-naming all of the tourist spots in the NT with Aboriginal names gained popularity, and the name "Gunlom" was adopted. I had never heard the name "Gunlom" when I grew up around there as a kid - not even amongst the Aboriginal kids I went to school with, and who I used to go out there swimming and fishing with on a regular basis.

There are known gold, platinum and uranium deposits all the way along that escarpment. The old mining township of El-Sharana is very close, and Coronation Hill is only just the other side of El-Sharana. They even exposed very high grade native uranium when they carved the "access" ramp up the side of the South Alligator rockholes - but decided not to mine it as they would have "destroyed" the rockholes by doing so. :o

[Tombie]

According to gov records.... By the time UU was in there it was already named and was the base campsite for UDPCo before the 2 other companies UU and SAU were in the area.

[Tombie]

Regardless it's an interesting piece of history.

[Narangga]

Close .................. it stood for "Uranium Development Project".


That's what I knew it as from when I arrived in the early 80s, but as you say Tombie some interesting history.

There are still some buildings near the T Junction on the way in (left to Gunlom, right to Gimbat/Coronation Hill).

[BMKal]

That's what I knew it as from when I arrived in the early 80s, but as you say Tombie some interesting history.

There are still some buildings near the T Junction on the way in (left to Gunlom, right to Gimbat/Coronation Hill).

That would be the remains of El-Sharana. It was very close to the T junction. A little bit further up the road (right) - there was a circular "loop" road off to the left with a few reasonably "modern" transportable houses around it last time I was in the area. I believe that was the exploration camp for Coronation Hill (or so I was told in the Pine Creek pub.

As a kid, I learnt to drive in this area in a Series 2 Land Rover (my father's work ute - the family car was an Austin Freeway wagon). We used to spend a lot of time out along the escarpment - long time before "Kakadu" existed. :D

[laughto]

Damn, I now wish we had a few more days in Kakadu to get down to Gunlom and have a look around. Might think about it on way back down from Darwin.

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[Narangga]

Damn, I now wish we had a few more days in Kakadu to get down to Gunlom and have a look around. Might think about it on way back down from Darwin.

Sent from my SM-G920I using AULRO mobile app

Road in is rough but not horrendous. Still a trickle over the falls and water was a reasonable level.

[Babs]

I had a hunt today western side of Kakadu on private property, drove along the border on the McKinlay River side.

Staying at the Grove Hotel/caravan park, I'll be out there all week doing Buffalo.

Anyways, this is the guides vehicle's tyres, D697. This vehicle is the bush vehicle for the guided hunts, it's driving around 12 hours per day in the scrub.

The photo is of the rear tyre, the fronts looked a little over half worn and looked a lot better condition.

I must say they performed well even in their condition. The vehicle is an 80 series Cruiser.



111780

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[LandyAndy]

They have done some hard work.
Must post some pics of the Cooper AT3s on my work ute.They looked like they needed replacing when we bought it,15000km later and they look no different.
Im not a Cooper fan,but credit where its due.Ive got 6 of them to wear out on my D4 before I can get something better:):):):):):):):):):):)
Andrew

[Tombie]

Looks like he's been a bit "lazy" with tyre pressures [emoji41]

[Disco Muppet]

We have Duelers on our oldest work Ute, which gets sent into the nasty places.
They look brand new, and we never touch the tyre pressures

Sent from my HTC One using AULRO mobile app

[morpheus]

I had a hunt today western side of Kakadu on private property, drove along the border on the McKinlay River side.

Staying at the Grove Hotel/caravan park, I'll be out there all week doing Buffalo.

Anyways, this is the guides vehicle's tyres, D697. This vehicle is the bush vehicle for the guided hunts, it's driving around 12 hours per day in the scrub.

The photo is of the rear tyre, the fronts looked a little over half worn and looked a lot better condition.

I must say they performed well even in their condition. The vehicle is an 80 series Cruiser.



111780

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner



These look exactly like the condition of the Duelers on my old mans' 79series cruiser ute. No idea on the amount of kms but they are punished - it's a cattle station ute that goes everywhere and does everything.

[Babs]

We are going up sandy river beds with no traction aids and these tyres aren't slipping, even in their condition. And driving around corners on these dirt roads at speed they are holding up. :)

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Tombie]

These look exactly like the condition of the Duelers on my old mans' 79series cruiser ute. No idea on the amount of kms but they are punished - it's a cattle station ute that goes everywhere and does everything.



Always in 4 locked?

I've seen that sort of wear when users stay in 2wd for a lot of the time..

[morpheus]

Good point Tombie, and you are right - they are usually in 2WD. Hubs only get locked for serious stuff.

[Tombie]

Good point Tombie, and you are right - they are usually in 2WD. Hubs only get locked for serious stuff.



We extended tyre life significantly on site when mandatory 4wd engaged was introduced.

[Babs]

Coincidence, today we had to pull a Buff out of a mud hole and I noticed he locked his hubs, so yes he has been driving around in 2wd and still engaging low range in 2wd.

That explains the harsher wear on the rear.

Tyre pressures at 26psi.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[LandyAndy]

We extended tyre life significantly on site when mandatory 4wd engaged was introduced.

I had a mandatory 4WD engaged experience last week.Had to put warning signs up on a 10km section of road I graded then got 10mm of rain overnite:):):):):):)
Andrew

[scarry]

I had a mandatory 4WD engaged experience last week.Had to put warning signs up on a 10km section of road I graded then got 10mm of rain overnite:):):):):):)
Andrew

I was at the dump in the D4 a while back,heaps of mud,cars were sliding all over the place.The guy told me to make sure the hubs were in and it was in 4WD.:eek:

No worries i said,i just couldn't be bothered explaining………..

[Babs]

I was at the dump in the D4 a while back,heaps of mud,cars were sliding all over the place.The guy told me to make sure the hubs were in and it was in 4WD.:eek: No worries i said,i just couldn't be bothered explaining………..



Ha ha ha :) make sure those hubs are locked. :D

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Tombie]

I was at the dump in the D4 a while back,heaps of mud,cars were sliding all over the place.The guy told me to make sure the hubs were in and it was in 4WD.:eek:

No worries i said,i just couldn't be bothered explaining???..



Should have said "I just got it. How do I do that?"

And then stood back and watched..

[Babs]

Should have said "I just got it. How do I do that?" And then stood back and watched..

Ha ha ha. lol :D

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Mog60]

My GOE rims are arriving soon :). It is largely due to the good advice that I have read here in this forum that I have finally decided go down the 18" route rather than going for 19" Maxxis (so my thanks to all that have contributed opinions). I have also decided that Bridgestone D697 265/60R18's would suit my needs. However, I do have a few remaining questions that I hope the forum members can help me with.

Given that I am based in Perth, can anyone recommend a good place to purchase six of these D697 265/60R18's from?

I would also be grateful for any recommendations of reliable places to have them fitted and balanced.

Am I correct in thinking that there is only one type of "D697 265/60R18" tyre and that if I order them, they will definitely be LT? Some websites don't specify this.

Lastly is $405 per tyre a good price including fitting with $100 off per four purchased. Many thanks. Peter

[LandyAndy]

If you want a day out in the South West.Ring South West Tyres in Busselton for a price.We get them to do all our truck and earthmoving tyres,they travel to us.They are very good on their pricing.Tell them you have a mate in Williams that steers a grader that told you they do good prices.Worth a call
Andrew

[Nod]

Purchased 6 months ago. Payed $325 per tyre fitted and balanced (for 5) from Bridgestone Select Tyre... they price matched after a limited phone around... but not in Perth.

[Narangga]

My GOE rims are arriving soon :). It is largely due to the good advice that I have read here in this forum that I have finally decided go down the 18" route rather than going for 19" Maxxis (so my thanks to all that have contributed opinions). I have also decided that Bridgestone D697 265/60R18's would suit my needs. However, I do have a few remaining questions that I hope the forum members can help me with.

1. Given that I am based in Perth, can anyone recommend a good place to purchase six of these D697 265/60R18's from?

2. I would also be grateful for any recommendations of reliable places to have them fitted and balanced.

3. Am I correct in thinking that there is only one type of "D697 265/60R18" tyre and that if I order them, they will definitely be LT? Some websites don't specify this.

4. Lastly is $405 per tyre a good price including fitting with $100 off per four purchased. Many thanks. Peter

1. No as I am in Darwin :p

2. See 1 ;)

3. Yes as far as I know and that is all I asked for

4. :eek: They are $450 each fitted and balanced in Darwin and Broome :(

[Tombie]

Darwin and Perth "tax" is pretty steep [emoji6]

[Babs]

These would have been the perfect tyre choice if they were available in a 19"

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Narangga]

Darwin and Perth "tax" is pretty steep [emoji6]

Yes that drive 'up' is very steep :(

[scarry]

Darwin and Perth "tax" is pretty steep [emoji6]

Sure is,

One of my brothers lives in Darwin,wanted some AT KO2s for his Plado.
The 17" size is very difficult to get as it fits many Jap vehicles.
Freight from Brisbane was $140 for four,plus fitting for each in Darwin.

Tyre price cost here was $95 less per tyre.

[Narangga]

I priced both Outback Accessories and Front Runner rear wheel carriers here in Darwin. The Front Runner would be the same price as the website if it was part of a 'stock order' but more if I had them get it in separately.

[gandalf]

A warning to others.
I just had new D697'S fitted to my D3
The only instruction i gave the fitters was to only lift on the chassis rails.
I get back 90 minutes later. The cars still up on the hoist, 3 guys underneath, old tyres still on.
The jacks on the hoist couldn't lift the car high enough so they jacked on the suspension and the jack slipped off.
Also damaged wheel nuts by using 12 point socket. etc etc.
Will check for underbody damage today.
I should have stayed and watched.
I had not much trust in workshops before and even less now.

Les

[Tombie]

That's horrific... ffs these monkeys need a beating..

[Mog60]

A warning to others.
I just had new D697'S fitted to my D3
The only instruction i gave the fitters was to only lift on the chassis rails.
I get back 90 minutes later. The cars still up on the hoist, 3 guys underneath, old tyres still on.
The jacks on the hoist couldn't lift the car high enough so they jacked on the suspension and the jack slipped off.
Also damaged wheel nuts by using 12 point socket. etc etc.
Will check for underbody damage today.
I should have stayed and watched.
I had not much trust in workshops before and even less now.

Les

This is exactly the sort of story that lead me to ask if anyone could recommend a reliable/decent fitter in Perth. Any suggestions?

Thanks Peter

[Babs]

A warning to others. I just had new D697'S fitted to my D3 The only instruction i gave the fitters was to only lift on the chassis rails. I get back 90 minutes later. The cars still up on the hoist, 3 guys underneath, old tyres still on. The jacks on the hoist couldn't lift the car high enough so they jacked on the suspension and the jack slipped off. Also damaged wheel nuts by using 12 point socket. etc etc. Will check for underbody damage today. I should have stayed and watched. I had not much trust in workshops before and even less now. Les

:O :o :o

Cheers, Babs :D Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Narangga]

A warning to others.
I just had new D697'S fitted to my D3
The only instruction i gave the fitters was to only lift on the chassis rails.
I get back 90 minutes later. The cars still up on the hoist, 3 guys underneath, old tyres still on.
The jacks on the hoist couldn't lift the car high enough so they jacked on the suspension and the jack slipped off.
Also damaged wheel nuts by using 12 point socket. etc etc.
Will check for underbody damage today.
I should have stayed and watched.
I had not much trust in workshops before and even less now.

Les

So much for so called 'professionals'.

Sorry to hear that - wish I could help in some way.

[Tombie]

What puzzles me is why they didn't use spacers OR a 2 post hoist...

The book states to have vehicle in fully raised mode also, I always advise the requirements as many a workshop is unaware.

I also point out the compressor and the correct lifting points.

Although now I just use their workshop and do all the work myself [emoji6]

[BMKal]

This is exactly the sort of story that lead me to ask if anyone could recommend a reliable/decent fitter in Perth. Any suggestions?

Thanks Peter

You might get more responses if you post this question in the WA section.

But I do know that Steve at Lifestyle 4WD has a tyre bloke just around the corner from him (in Morley) who he gets to do all his Land Rover work. Steve wouldn't use him if he wasn't any good. Suggest you give Steve a call.

Fortunately, I've got a good tyre place up here in Kal. He seems to know his way around Land Rovers and I'm always in his workshop watching / giving him a hand when he works on any of my vehicles anyway. He's the first bloke I've actually seen using a torque wrench on wheel nuts without being asked to. ;)

[Babs]

What puzzles me is why they didn't use spacers OR a 2 post hoist... The book states to have vehicle in fully raised mode also, I always advise the requirements as many a workshop is unaware. I also point out the compressor and the correct lifting points. Although now I just use their workshop and do all the work myself [emoji6]


Fully raised mode ❓ is that before hoisting/jacking it ❓ I had no idea, I don't think when they did the Maxxis they changed the suspension level, it just went on hoist and went up :o

Cheers, Babs :D Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Mog60]

You might get more responses if you post this question in the WA section.

But I do know that Steve at Lifestyle 4WD has a tyre bloke just around the corner from him (in Morley) who he gets to do all his Land Rover work. Steve wouldn't use him if he wasn't any good. Suggest you give Steve a call.

Fortunately, I've got a good tyre place up here in Kal. He seems to know his way around Land Rovers and I'm always in his workshop watching / giving him a hand when he works on any of my vehicles anyway. He's the first bloke I've actually seen using a torque wrench on wheel nuts without being asked to. ;)

Many thanks for this advice. Morley is not too far from me, so I will definitely be following this possibility up. Cheers :BigThumb:

[Tombie]

Fully raised mode [emoji780] is that before hoisting/jacking it [emoji780] I had no idea, I don't think when they did the Maxxis they changed the suspension level, it just went on hoist and went up :o

Cheers, Babs :D Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner



Yes, offroad mode to change a tyre.

Lifts the vehicle and then reduces imbalance.

A neat trick is to change a tyre by lowering the vehicle onto the jack under the arm, the vehicle will then actually lift its tyre for you...

[Disco-tastic]

Does it matter if its not in off road when they lift it? For general servicing my mechanic lowers it before putting it on the hoist...

Cheers

Dan

[Tombie]

On a 4 post no.
On a 2 post makes no sense as it drops a lot further when lifted...

[chuck]

Fitted Terra Grapplers yesterday & while doing the spare I noticed the device to lower the spare seems to have changed.
Mine is a hook & eye device not a bolt head device.

Thought it was important to note for people who are buying the extension devices so they don't have to lift rear seats.

Mine is a September 15 build MY16.

[l00kin4]

Fitted Terra Grapplers yesterday & while doing the spare I noticed the device to lower the spare seems to have changed.
Mine is a hook & eye device not a bolt head device.

Thought it was important to note for people who are buying the extension devices so they don't have to lift rear seats.

Mine is a September 15 build MY16.

This started on about MY14 vehicles I think. Have seen some speculation that it was to stop people trying to use a rattle gun on the hex head of the previous version... really fast way to jam it up.

David

[gofish]

I have been contemplating these tyres for some time now & the general opinion seems good. Today I got a puncture so I might speed things up a little :) What size do people recommend & what's the average cost ? Thanks.

[Narangga]

265/60 R18 would be your size. Average cost - where I am is lots :(

[Russrobe]

I have been contemplating these tyres for some time now & the general opinion seems good. Today I got a puncture so I might speed things up a little :) What size do people recommend & what's the average cost ? Thanks.
I'd go either of the two. 265 60 18 or 285 60 18.

285s increased my fuel consumption a little on the 2.7. Didn't really notice any lost power though.

[l00kin4]

I have been contemplating these tyres for some time now & the general opinion seems good. Today I got a puncture so I might speed things up a little :) What size do people recommend & what's the average cost ? Thanks.

265/60 18's should be about $330 in Melbourne. I had mine fitted by Bob Jane in Sydney - they will price match.

David

[gofish]

I assume 265/60 will still fit back under the car (?)

[LandyAndy]

In 18" they do;););););).
Andrew

[Chops]

Which is preferable to most people for the GOE 18" wheels, 265's or 285's ?
I'm about to prefer a set, but not really too sure which to get.

[rar110]

Which is preferable to most people for the GOE 18" wheels, 265's or 285's ? I'm about to prefer a set, but not really too sure which to get.

I decided on 265/60/18s because they are more common if I need to buy another while away.

[BMKal]

I decided on 265/60/18s because they are more common if I need to buy another while away.

X2. I could get 265's in a number of brands "off the shelf" in Kalgoorlie, whereas 285's had to be ordered in. ;)

Not that it is a concern to me as my spare wheel isn't under the vehicle anyway, but I'm not sure if 285's will fit under the vehicle - I think I read somewhere that you might have to deflate the tyre to allow it to fit in the hole.

[LRD414]

I decided on 265/60/18s because they are more common if I need to buy another while away.
Same reason for me, plus it's quite close to the factory 255/55/R19 overall diameter.
This means no issues with fitting the spare in place or wheel arch rubbing etc.

Scott

[Chops]

All good thanks guys, I'll have the single rear carrier on the car, so fitment underneath wouldn't be an issue anyway. Having said that,, availability is a good enough reason for me to stick with the 265's.
Cheers guys.

[Russrobe]

I found the opposite. Being standard LC200 size the 285 was more common near me. Tyre shops 1 km away had General Grabbers, 697s and 1 other in stock...

[gofish]

Just awaiting some quotes on Mon. Best I have got so far is $1625 for 5 fitted. If I go for 4 then I have 1 original (spare) which is 255 so figure I am best to go for 5 (@265) & start fresh.

[scarry]

I decided on 265/60/18s because they are more common if I need to buy another while away.

Standard 18" size on Prado and Pajero.

[LandyAndy]

Russ beat me to it,the 285 size is a 200 Series fitment.He did manage to cram his under hid D4s bum.My concern is rubbing in a suspension failure situation.
Andrew

[scarry]

Andy,

Have you tried your 18's on soft sand yet,if so,how did they go compared to the 19's?

I need new tyres,don't know whether to go 18's or stay with 17's,i have both size rims.

[Aaron40]

I still have not saved enough for Comp rims yet however when I talked to Gordon he recommended the 285/60/18 size for best in very soft sand....

[LandyAndy]

Andy,

Have you tried your 18's on soft sand yet,if so,how did they go compared to the 19's?

I need new tyres,don't know whether to go 18's or stay with 17's,i have both size rims.

Not as yet.
I have had to take Deb up to see her mum in hospital every weekend for the last 4 months.
Andrew

[Russrobe]

Russ beat me to it,the 285 size is a 200 Series fitment.He did manage to cram his under hid D4s bum.My concern is rubbing in a suspension failure situation.
Andrew
Yep that's definitely a temporary fix i reckon. Not really happy about jamming it up next to the trailer plug cables either. Potential to damage the cables..

I saw a D4 with a kaymar twin wheel carrier at my local shops yesterday and now I'm sold on one.... Once the bank balance has recovered from the bull bar..

[LandyAndy]

Yep that's definitely a temporary fix i reckon. Not really happy about jamming it up next to the trailer plug cables either. Potential to damage the cables..


I saw a D4 with a kaymar twin wheel carrier at my local shops yesterday and now I'm sold on one.... Once the bank balance has recovered from the bull bar..

Russ.
I was refering to the failure of the air system,lines,bags,or compressor etc and you have to drive on the bumpstops.
Seeing yu have LLAMS have you yet tested if its possible to drive lowered with the 285's???
Andrew

[Russrobe]

Russ.
I was refering to the failure of the air system,lines,bags,or compressor etc and you have to drive on the bumpstops.
Seeing yu have LLAMS have you yet tested if its possible to drive lowered with the 285's???
Andrew
Ah i see. Nope. Will have to check.

Access is definitely fine though. Have driven through carparks no problem.

[Babs]

Breaker Breaker, does the Llams extended access mode actually drop to bump stops ❓

And if so are you able to drive around on the bump stops ❓ I'm referring to standard tyres or standard diameter.

Cheers, Babs :D Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

[Graeme]

LLAMS low with access height is very close to the bump-stops for MY12-on D4s for the rear whereas earlier D4s would drop another 30mm before hitting the stops. MY12+ front still drops around another 30mm, almost identical to early vehicles.

[Russrobe]

LLAMS low with access height is very close to the bump-stops for MY12-on D4s for the rear whereas earlier D4s would drop another 30mm before hitting the stops. MY12+ front still drops around another 30mm, almost identical to early vehicles.
Graeme does it really go 30mm lower than this? Mine is a 2010 but does seem to do strange things like lower itself just before we lock it..https://www.aulro.com/afvb/images/imported/2016/08/555.jpg

30mm lower would be about 2 inches from bottoming out completely... Ground to spare...

The 285s are virtually a 1inch lift yeh? So with standard size tyres and another 30mm I'd probably be creating sparks as i bottomed out down the road..