Cooper ST (Sure Trac) tyres - good & bad experiences wanted

[LRHybrid100]

G'day Guys,

I am looking for a AT tyre in a 255 / 85 x 16 size - would buy BFG ATs but they dont come in that size but Coopers do.

I know there has been recalls on 285 / 75 x 16 ST Coopers in the past - due to delamination of the tread but hope this is all in the past.

Pls post up your experiences - both good and bad with the Coopers ST tyres

THX

LRH

[CraigE]

If you are going ATs I would recommend BFG or Pirelli. For MTs Cooper STT or the MTZ or BFG MT's.You should be able to find a similar size tyre in either of these. There is a link to a tyre size calculator on a thread here that I posted last week. I will see if I can find it, this should be able to tell you what tyres are actually similar rolling diameter and will fit. You could go 235/75/16 as these would be close to diameter just not as wide.
Tire size calculator (http://www.miata.net/garage/tirecalc.html)

[tombraider]

G'day Guys,

I am looking for a AT tyre in a 255 / 85 x 16 size - would buy BFG ATs but they dont come in that size but Coopers do.

I know there has been recalls on 285 / 75 x 16 ST Coopers in the past - due to delamination of the tread but hope this is all in the past.

Pls post up your experiences - both good and bad with the Coopers ST tyres

THX

LRH

Not in the past...

Had a guy with a delamination last week....

DONT BUY COOPERS.... :cool:

[Stepho_62]

Done 10,000 now, They are quieter than BFG MT. Not evidence of any issues. They are mounted on a 16" RR Alloys. 2 of them constantly go down and I've not worked out why yet.

In the sand with 18 psi in them they are excellent, On e harsh gravel road they have been excellent too. They understeer a bit but I just figure I should stick the slipper into it a bit harder.:twisted:

Cheers

[CraigE]

Not in the past...

Had a guy with a delamination last week....

DONT BUY COOPERS.... :cool:
Mike,
Any more info cause if this is happening again it is a huge concern.
What batch of tyres, current or old, kms etc.
Were there any other issues, inflation etc.
I know if they do not leave the tyres to cure long enough it causes this type of issue with bonding of the tread.
Just when we thought that was in the past. Does not apply to me as I dont run the ST's, but still worrying.
Thanks
CraigE

[rick130]

I could be wrong, but I thought Cooper had dropped the ST in 255/85 ??
Pretty sure the newer version of the STT isn't available in that size, either.

AFAIK, the only tyres available in that size in Oz are the BFG MT and Maxxis Big Horn 762 ?
In Europe and possibly the US there is a much wider range available in that size.

As far as experience, we had the ST's on SWMBO's Patrol as it's second set of tyres. They were a major improvement on the Bridgestone 693 Duellers fitted OE.
No major issues using it on the farm and crook gravel and secondary secondary roads around here, quite good when you got a bit of wheelspin going in the mud here, no major chipping, either, but the sidewalls developed micro cracking all the way around within two weeks of fitment :eek:
Micro cracking developed between the tread blocks a little later.

With their reputation for tearing tread blocks and delaminating we went with other tyres thereafter. Grip wise they were good for an AT, and better all round than BFG AT's and a world better in mud. The BFG's have out lasted them by on averaqe 10-15,000km using the same roads.

They were also a bastard to mount, having to be blown out with tubes overnight to get the bead out far enough to mount on the Patrol 8" rim (265/75)

[pawl]

I've got Coopers 235/70/16 ST's on my disco they have done about 64,000km now still with 5-6mm tread on them and I really can't fault them I have been impressed with the level of grip I have had on all surfaces mud through to tarmac and would certainly purchase another set.

[cmurray]

Both my brother and I have been running 255/85x16 Cooper ST's for a few years now. I was quite surprised by how well they work in the mud. I have chipped mine, but that was due to not letting my tyres down enough on one loose shaley hill that my 90 really struggled to get up. Once this set has warn out, I shall be buying another, and I'm pretty sure that is what my brother will be doing as well.

[isuzu110]

I have run 2 sets of 235/85R16 STs on my 110's since 2000 plus a set of 265/75R16 STTs.

Very happy with the STs as they have been driven around Oz including the Cape, GRR, Flinders Ranges, High Country etc with no punctures, chipping, bubbles nor delaminations. I switched to Coopers after bad experiences with cracking sidewalls on BFG ATs and MTs.

I have had problems with STTs ripping lugs due to me not airing down on rock ledge climbs.

I still run STs around town and touring . I run a second set of 255/85R16 BFG muds as STTs were not avail in the 255 size last year.

[jddisco200tdi]

I run Copper ST's in 255/85R16 on my disco. Have got about 40K on them.
They did get some minor chipping from a Simpson desert trip 2 years ago but other than that they are a reasonable tyre.
I do only use these tyre as my road/touring tyres though.

[Tank]

G'day Guys,

I am looking for a AT tyre in a 255 / 85 x 16 size - would buy BFG ATs but they dont come in that size but Coopers do.

I know there has been recalls on 285 / 75 x 16 ST Coopers in the past - due to delamination of the tread but hope this is all in the past.

Pls post up your experiences - both good and bad with the Coopers ST tyres

THX

LRH
You need only go as far as their (Coopers) mileage warranty, it is Null and Void if you go off road, 'nuff said, Regards Frank.

[BigJon]

You need only go as far as their (Coopers) mileage warranty, it is Null and Void if you go off road, 'nuff said, Regards Frank.

They also don't honour the warranty if you live anywhere but a major city.

[Tank]

They also don't honour the warranty if you live anywhere but a major city.
BigJon, it really is a joke, "yeh, we give a 70,000klm warranty, so long as you don't go anywhere".
A mate had a set of Coopers Muddies and he tore a couple of lugs out of the middle of the tread and Coopers didn't want to know, he no longer uses Coopers, niether do I, I bought a set of Nankang Mudstars as did my mate for half the price of the Coopers, 40,000klms, mostly off road and there not even half way worn, see pics in my Gallery under "Tank" at 20,000k's, Regards Frank.

[Redback]

COOPERS ARE CRAP

Is this too harsh:whistling::whistling:

Baz.

[LRHybrid100]

COOPERS ARE CRAP

Is this too harsh:whistling::whistling:

Baz.

THX Baz - I was waiting for your input!!! Good to see real life experiences

LRH

[Redback]

THX Baz - I was waiting for your input!!! Good to see real life experiences

LRH

I couldn't help myself:D

You saw my experiences first hand and the state of the tyres after only a short time on the car, and i went through them all through there warrenty system, beginning with the STs, then ST-Cs and finally STTs, if they were the only choice Mark, the STTs would be the better tyre, but for how much they are, your better off going for the BFG MTs in 255/85/16s.

If your fender has traction control and i'm pretty sure it does, then i would steer clear of Coopers.

Baz.

[HAK]

Hay I love my Coopers they chip like every soft compound of road tyre in comparison to MT they do exactly the same there quite and grip well so whats the problem with STT Im sure they have fixed any issues with ST

do anybody want to buy 5 near new STT 32's on stock D2 Rims spare being a steelie with a brand new tyre, anybody?

PS I'll be buying STT again

[jmkoffice]

G'day Guys,

I am looking for a AT tyre in a 255 / 85 x 16 size - would buy BFG ATs but they dont come in that size but Coopers do.

I know there has been recalls on 285 / 75 x 16 ST Coopers in the past - due to delamination of the tread but hope this is all in the past.

Pls post up your experiences - both good and bad with the Coopers ST tyres

THX

LRH
I am on my second set of Cooper ST's. These tyres have not prematurely worn-out or failed. I managed 75,000 km from the first set and looks like the same for the current set. I always run 40 psi (cold) on all 4 tyres and religiously have a rotation/balance and wheel alignment every 10,000 Km.

Although I hammered my tyres crossing the Simmo and more, apart from some typical chipping, they still run smoothly at 110 km on the highway. On sand I found my 245's handled 18 psi without any risk of rolling off the rim, this was on a heavily loaded Disco II.

A simple rule is - do your research and don't skimp on any product you rely on in the middle of nowhere.

[BigJon]

, apart from some typical chipping, .

Why does this seem to be a common phrase when a Cooper tyres discussion come up?

[tombraider]

Mike,
Any more info cause if this is happening again it is a huge concern.
What batch of tyres, current or old, kms etc.
Were there any other issues, inflation etc.
I know if they do not leave the tyres to cure long enough it causes this type of issue with bonding of the tread.
Just when we thought that was in the past. Does not apply to me as I dont run the ST's, but still worrying.
Thanks
CraigE

Craig...

Happening again? It hasnt ever actually stopped. ;)
And its part of ALL Coopers range...

They chip, often losing lugs to the belts (writes off tyre)
They crack, allowing water into belt area (dangerous and writes off tyre)

Once they belts get wet you should chuck them, thats when they delaminate...


Cooper Tires

Historically, Cooper Tires has been able to keep its recalls out of the public eye by settling lawsuits out of court and including provisions in the settlements prohibiting public discussion of the agreement. More recently, however, Cooper Tires has come under heavy public scrutiny for the sale of certain products that are susceptible to high-speed blowouts.
Media investigators have found hundreds of court cases against Cooper Tires, involving more than 200 deaths and nearly 250 injuries allegedly caused by certain Cooper tires that are vulnerable to tread separation (the separation of one tire layer from the next, often leading to catastrophic tire failures).
If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident that occurred because of defective Cooper tires, you may be eligible to seek compensation for your losses and damages .



The Defective Tires Cooper Tires also manufactures and distributes tires under other names, including Futura Tires, Trendsetter, Discoverer, and Avon Tires. They have recalled tires for “slow air leaks,” and other innocuous sounding reasons, but many of these tires have blown apart at highway speeds and consequently killed and injured hundreds of people.


Whilst the last 'official' claim was filed in 2005 its fair to say the practices appear to have not changed and several recently purchased STT, AT and STs have delaminated at low mileage...

Particularly in times of temp +30c

I'd avoid them at all costs... There are alternates and their Warranty is VOID if you actually USE them OFFROAD anyway...

[jmkoffice]

Why does this seem to be a common phrase when a Cooper tyres discussion come up?
It's a general statement for all tyres. "Typical chipping" also happened to a set of BFG's the first time I crossed the Simmo in 02. Unfortunately, I found BFG's couldn't take low PSI like the Coopers for sand use. I rolled two off their rims.

[TheLowRanger]

I ran a set of 235/85/16 ST's on my RRC for over 100,000k's and was very impressed with their off road ability. I did lose some partial side lugs earlier on, but this was through not airing down on steep, shaley surfaces causing excess wheel spin. On the same surfaces my mate running BFG MT's also lost lugs due to not airing down, so it is not necessarily just one brand of tyre. My only disappointment with the ST's was wet bitumen handling - or lack there of. I have just recently purchased a set of STT's for my D1 and am so far impressed with how they handle. They also cope a lot better with wet bitumen than the ST's seemed to.

[discowhite]

It's a general statement for all tyres. "Typical chipping" also happened to a set of BFG's the first time I crossed the Simmo in 02. Unfortunately, I found BFG's couldn't take low PSI like the Coopers for sand use. I rolled two off their rims.

2 sets of silverstones, never chipped!
parents put 5 brand new coopers, AT's on there 100 series, they got to cairns (left from rockhampton) on their way to the cape and did both rears! on tar! with coopers recomender pressures, again top came off like a re tread! yeah! top quality tyres them coopers!
i told you so came up alot!

mark, just go 285 75 R16 you have a CHOICE then!

cheers phil

[BigJon]

2 sets of silverstones, never chipped!
parents put 5 brand new coopers, AT's on there 100 series, they got to cairns (left from rockhampton) on their way to the cape and did both rears! on tar! with coopers recomender pressures, again top came off like a re tread! yeah! top quality tyres them coopers!
i told you so came up alot!

mark, just go 285 75 R16 you have a CHOICE then!

cheers phil

I agree. I have never seen any brand of tyre chip like Coopers do. I have first hand experience with BF Goodrich, Toyo, Michelin, and many others, but I have never had chipping the likes of which I have seen on Cooper tyres over and over again.

[jmkoffice]

I agree. I have never seen any brand of tyre chip like Coopers do. I have first hand experience with BF Goodrich, Toyo, Michelin, and many others, but I have never had chipping the likes of which I have seen on Cooper tyres over and over again.
Fair enough. Maybe that's why they brought out the ST-C, marketed as more chip tolerant. Has anyone tried these?

[BigJon]

Fair enough. Maybe that's why they brought out the ST-C, marketed as more chip tolerant. Has anyone tried these?

That might help with that one tread pattern, but what about the ATRs and STTs that chip badly as well?

[Redback]

I couldn't help myself:D

You saw my experiences first hand and the state of the tyres after only a short time on the car, and i went through them all through there warrenty system, beginning with the STs, then ST-Cs and finally STTs, if they were the only choice Mark, the STTs would be the better tyre, but for how much they are, your better off going for the BFG MTs in 255/85/16s.

If your fender has traction control and i'm pretty sure it does, then i would steer clear of Coopers.

Baz.


Fair enough. Maybe that's why they brought out the ST-C, marketed as more chip tolerant. Has anyone tried these?

Yes i've tried them, 20,000ks they lasted, but they were knacked at 10,000ks really, Coopers just didn't want to change them under warrenty untill we realy insisted.

Baz.

[AndyRevill]

Craig...

.........................................
They crack, allowing water into belt area (dangerous and writes off tyre)

Once they belts get wet you should chuck them, thats when they delaminate...



.................................................. ......................

I've been following this and other similar threads since I first heard of a few delaminations with STs with, I'll admit, a degree of nervousness mixed with "you only hear bad stories so don't panic". However, Mike's post which mentioned cracks made me check mine this evening. Now I'm not sure what's "normal" but I'm a bit concerned with what I found. These tyres have done two mainland trips (totalling about 15000 kms) and about another 10-15000 on bitumen. The chipping doesn't seem to me to be too bad (considering the tracks we went on) but there does seem to be an alarming degree of cracking at the base of just about all the outside lugs, especially on the rear tyres - so now I'm wondering if these are something to be concerned about. There are also a few cracks in between a few lugs. I've tried to take a couple of pics but not sure how clear they will be.
Anyone any suggestions on the best way to get some independent advice?

cheers, Andy

[McDisco]

Done 10,000 now, They are quieter than BFG MT. Not evidence of any issues. They are mounted on a 16" RR Alloys. 2 of them constantly go down and I've not worked out why yet.

In the sand with 18 psi in them they are excellent, On e harsh gravel road they have been excellent too. They understeer a bit but I just figure I should stick the slipper into it a bit harder.:twisted:

Cheers

Stevo

This is likely because of sand in the bead. I had this problem with my BFG Ats. Just get them reseated and cleaned.

Angus

[McDisco]

I think tyres a a personal choice and most of us stick to what has worked, but sometimes you just gotta try and see. But I have never heard of any other apparently reputable tyre manufacturer having so many problems as Cooper. And not just premature wear and chipping, but actual major delaminations!

I also just dont understand how they can manage to charge what they do for their tyres! I priced them when looking for muddies and the STTs and ridiculously prices compared to nearly everything else! Personally I wouldnt pay the money they ask for tyres that have a dubious reliability record.

But then again...plenty of people use them without a hassle! I just think that if you go with Coopers fair enough...but just dont whinge when they bust!! :o:D

If you want reliable tyres stick with GY silent armour, Wranglers, BFG muddies, pirelli At's, MTZ's and MTx's.

My 2 cents worth.

Angus

[Slunnie]

I've been following this and other similar threads since I first heard of a few delaminations with STs with, I'll admit, a degree of nervousness mixed with "you only hear bad stories so don't panic". However, Mike's post which mentioned cracks made me check mine this evening. Now I'm not sure what's "normal" but I'm a bit concerned with what I found. These tyres have done two mainland trips (totalling about 15000 kms) and about another 10-15000 on bitumen. The chipping doesn't seem to me to be too bad (considering the tracks we went on) but there does seem to be an alarming degree of cracking at the base of just about all the outside lugs, especially on the rear tyres - so now I'm wondering if these are something to be concerned about. There are also a few cracks in between a few lugs. I've tried to take a couple of pics but not sure how clear they will be.
Anyone any suggestions on the best way to get some independent advice?

cheers, Andy
The first pic which has the cracking along the root of what I would assume is the leading edge of the tread block and is typical of early signs of the the outer tread block seperation which is typical of the Cooper ST when the tyre is subjected to wheel spin. This is at its best. At its worst the entire outer tread block or a series of tread blocks will be torn off the carcass.

The second pic is probably just a cut from road or track debris and not a design problem.

[Slunnie]

G'day Guys,

I am looking for a AT tyre in a 255 / 85 x 16 size - would buy BFG ATs but they dont come in that size but Coopers do.

I know there has been recalls on 285 / 75 x 16 ST Coopers in the past - due to delamination of the tread but hope this is all in the past.

Pls post up your experiences - both good and bad with the Coopers ST tyres

THX

LRH
I've run the ST in the same 255/85-16 size that you're talking about.

I think there has already been some significant talk about the typical (epidemic) problems that the Cooper ST suffers with tread seperation, particularly the outer blocks which is caused by wheel spin, and not directly from tyre pressure.

In addition to this, I found that the ST had a lot of road noise, probably as much as a typical muddie. The rolling resistance was good and the tyres return good economy, especially for a tyre that is as aggresive as what they are. I also found that the sidewalls do not have a lot of lateral stability and if you don't have your tyre pressures up at something over 36psi that you will get a lot of movement and walking from these tyres. I've not experienced this degree of flex on the road in any other tyre that I've used, which includes the Cooper STT old style mud in the same size. It can only make me think that the 255/85 ST has thin sidewalls.

Would I buy them again - never ever. If a 4WD tyre can't tolerate wheel spin off road without breaking (as opposed to cutting).... then to me it is not a 4WD tyre.

[dmdigital]

I've got 6 Cooper ST 255/70R16 for my Disco and 6 Cooper ST 235/85R16 for the Defender.

Defender's done about 14,000km on these tyres in 18 months, Disco about 20,000km in 2 years. No problems at all. They have been good and I rotate my tyres every 6 months (spares->front->rear->spares).

That said I have 2 mates who have fitted Cooper ST's in the last 12 months. Defender (235/85R16) one tyre delaminated. Prado 235 something's, two tyres with lamination issues but caught before it was too late.

So are Coopers OK. I bought the Defender with them fitted (but new tyres). The Disco I put on before I read about the issues. I've had no trouble but I know at least two people who have. Personally I'd never use BFG AT's ever again after a bad run with them.

Am I worried about the Cooper's, yes, I check my tyres regularly, especially when driving a long distance. I doubt if I'll replace them with the same though.

As for Coopers mileage warranty. Its a Joke! As other's have said already.

[justinc]

The first pic which has the cracking along the root of what I would assume is the leading edge of the tread block and is typical of early signs of the the outer tread block seperation which is typical of the Cooper ST when the tyre is subjected to wheel spin. This is at its best. At its worst the entire outer tread block or a series of tread blocks will be torn off the carcass.

The second pic is probably just a cut from road or track debris and not a design problem.

Andy, I have switched from ST's to BFG 255/85's for good reason. My 235/85 ST's are now on the other halfs RR LSE, and only because I still have them in the workshop. Earliest oportunity it gets BFG MT 's in 235/85.

The ST's are almost as noisy as the Mudders!!! and they haven't lasted anywhere as long as I would've liked. I think about 35K and they are about 80% worn out.

Do a drive by and we'll have a look at the cracking...Pics don't look TOO bad, but Slunnie raises some interesting points about tread blocks coming off.

JC

[hiline]

Andy, I have switched from ST's to BFG 255/85's for good reason. My 235/85 ST's are now on the other halfs RR LSE, and only because I still have them in the workshop. Earliest oportunity it gets BFG MT 's in 235/85.

The ST's are almost as noisy as the Mudders!!! and they haven't lasted anywhere as long as I would've liked. I think about 35K and they are about 80% worn out.

Do a drive by and we'll have a look at the cracking...Pics don't look TOO bad, but Slunnie raises some interesting points about tread blocks coming off.

JC

mine or worse than that :(
Cooper STT i'll get some pics tomorrow

[AndyRevill]

Do a drive by and we'll have a look at the cracking...Pics don't look TOO bad, but Slunnie raises some interesting points about tread blocks coming off.

JC

Don't worry - you're on my to do list sometime this week! :)

[tombraider]

I think tyres a a personal choice and most of us stick to what has worked, but sometimes you just gotta try and see. But I have never heard of any other apparently reputable tyre manufacturer having so many problems as Cooper. And not just premature wear and chipping, but actual major delaminations!

I also just dont understand how they can manage to charge what they do for their tyres! I priced them when looking for muddies and the STTs and ridiculously prices compared to nearly everything else! Personally I wouldnt pay the money they ask for tyres that have a dubious reliability record.

But then again...plenty of people use them without a hassle! I just think that if you go with Coopers fair enough...but just dont whinge when they bust!! :o:D

If you want reliable tyres stick with GY silent armour, Wranglers, BFG muddies, pirelli At's, MTZ's and MTx's.

My 2 cents worth.

Angus

OK, so it should be the tyre you know....

Well which ones would you like me to talk about?

Cooper ST
Cooper STT
Mickey Claws
Dick Cepek FCII
BFG MT (and MT KO)
BFG AT
Mickey ATZ
Mickey MTZ
Silverstone MT117
Bridgestone Dueler
General Grabber
Mickey Bajas
Goodyear MTR
GY Silent Armour
Michellins
Kuhmo 'super slippers'

I've tested them all.....

[tombraider]

Stevo

This is likely because of sand in the bead. I had this problem with my BFG Ats. Just get them reseated and cleaned.

Angus

Coopers reknown for pinholes in carcass actually....

[B92 8NW]

Haahaahahaaaa:twisted: the truth comes out about these sub standard tyres at last! I knew it would, only a matter of time.

Someone refer the LROCV peeps here:angel:

[CraigE]

Haahaahahaaaa:twisted: the truth comes out about these sub standard tyres at last! I knew it would, only a matter of time.

Someone refer the LROCV peeps here:angel:
Yeah,
But as said a lot of us have also had no problems with the Coopers, but have with other tyres. I have had major failures with Bridgestones, Dunlops, Michelins and BFG's. Have not had any sort of failure with the Cooper STT's apart from staking one with a bolt. This thread is worrying though. With this in mind then most of the Mickey Thompson range and others would probablly be sub standard as well, as there are a lot made in the same factory.
Remember the issues Firestone had as well and a heap of their sub brands? Goodyear also had problems as have Dunlop and Bridgestone.

[chazza]

Last year I was super-keen to fit Coopers to my Disco 1. The tyre seller who used to stock them, warned me about the considerable number of warranty claims he had in the past. So I asked a cobber in the mining industry what he knew of them; same story heaps of blokes had tried them - too many problems.

So, rather deflated, I bought what I had before (Goodyear Wranglers), which have given no trouble at all, and they shouldn't as I rarely get the chance to go off-road.

I was hoping this thread might show that my mates were wrong, but it has only confirmed their experiences.

[AndyRevill]

OK, so it should be the tyre you know....

Well which ones would you like me to talk about?

Cooper ST
Cooper STT
Mickey Claws
Dick Cepek FCII
BFG MT (and MT KO)
BFG AT
Mickey ATZ
Mickey MTZ
Silverstone MT117
Bridgestone Dueler
General Grabber
Mickey Bajas
Goodyear MTR
GY Silent Armour
Michellins
Kuhmo 'super slippers'

I've tested them all.....

Well, as I may be in the market sooner than I expected, I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on most of them:)

Andy

[tombraider]

This thread is worrying though.

With this in mind then most of the Mickey Thompson range and others would probablly be sub standard as well, as there are a lot made in the same factory.


Not correct...

Mickey Thompsons are owned by the same umbrella corp, but are manufactured in different factories and have not had these issues.

[dungarover]

Coopers are overpriced and overated IMO and not worth a pinch of **** :mad::mad::mad: I did a GHM run a few years back, all 3 tyres with punctures were all Coopers. Maybe a coincidence but I was looking at a set back then nd that really made my mind up not to buy Coopers :(

BFG M/T's I would class in this catagory (AT's I've been pretty sucessful with. Funny, they both pretty much have the similar construction). I sold mine BFG M/T's off because I staked one on the 3rd run out with them too easily and nearly put a hole in one, which is when I decided to cut my losses and get something els that was better (and cheaper).

The Silverstones MT117's I've got now, might be noisy and handle not as well as a MT but tough as nails and cheapish outlay make them a winner for me :D:D

Trav

[jmkoffice]

Yes i've tried them, 20,000ks they lasted, but they were knacked at 10,000ks really, Coopers just didn't want to change them under warrenty untill we realy insisted.

Baz.
Baz, how do you wear out any tyre in 20,000 km? Did they all wear evenly or on the edges?

Just interested

Johann

[Tank]

I've been following this and other similar threads since I first heard of a few delaminations with STs with, I'll admit, a degree of nervousness mixed with "you only hear bad stories so don't panic". However, Mike's post which mentioned cracks made me check mine this evening. Now I'm not sure what's "normal" but I'm a bit concerned with what I found. These tyres have done two mainland trips (totalling about 15000 kms) and about another 10-15000 on bitumen. The chipping doesn't seem to me to be too bad (considering the tracks we went on) but there does seem to be an alarming degree of cracking at the base of just about all the outside lugs, especially on the rear tyres - so now I'm wondering if these are something to be concerned about. There are also a few cracks in between a few lugs. I've tried to take a couple of pics but not sure how clear they will be.
Anyone any suggestions on the best way to get some independent advice?

cheers, Andy
I would be EXTREMELY worried about that cracking of the main carcass of the tyre, I certainly wouldn't drive at speed, I would take them back and scream Blue Bloody Murder.
If a RTA inspector seen those cracks you would get a tow order, likewise an observant cop, take'em back and if they whinge get a report off the RTA, Regards Frank.

[TheLowRanger]

Everyone keeps on commenting on the expensive price of Coopers. Just wondering what you guys are paying for tyres? I have just purchased a set of Cooper STT's after a lot of ringing around and pricing, and they were the same price as BFG's, Maxxis Bighorns, only about $10-15 dearer than dunlop, bridgestone etc., and about $40 cheaper than Goodyear MTR's. As far as the prices I came up with, they were about ball park with most of the other makes. By the sound of things, this obviously isn't the case over east.

[Redback]

Baz, how do you wear out any tyre in 20,000 km? Did they all wear evenly or on the edges?

Just interested

Johann

Not worn out, but chipped and very bad uneven wear, i had whole complete lugs off right down to the steel belt.

My opinion is that Coopers are too soft and can't handle the traction control of the Disco 2, i have Nankang Mudstars on now and as far as wear and chipping goes, nothing so far, they have preformed very well and are wearing as per normal.

Not the best on wet tar, but good everywhere else, they are the same tread pattern as Maxxis Buckshots.

Baz.

[discowhite]

Everyone keeps on commenting on the expensive price of Coopers. Just wondering what you guys are paying for tyres? I have just purchased a set of Cooper STT's after a lot of ringing around and pricing, and they were the same price as BFG's, Maxxis Bighorns, only about $10-15 dearer than dunlop, bridgestone etc., and about $40 cheaper than Goodyear MTR's. As far as the prices I came up with, they were about ball park with most of the other makes. By the sound of things, this obviously isn't the case over east.

$230-$250 ea for 285 75 R16 silverstone, doubt for that money you will get the same size cooper or bfg!

cheers phil

[p38arover]

My opinion is that Coopers are too soft and can't handle the traction control of the Disco 2,

I don't understand your reference to problems with TC - you mentioned it an earlier post as well.

I have ST on my P38A and will be due for new tyres soon. Do I fit the near new ones I have in the garage or go another brand. I've had these on for the past couple of years.

I do dislike the noise of them but that could be due to the scalloping that's occurring with wear.

I do very little off-roading so I might be able to go back to another brand of AT.

[ak]

These post's about Coopers have me a bit worried as just before Christmas I fitted four Cooper ATR's. As I mainly do alot more on road than off road. Has any one also had tyre seperation problems with the ATR's.

[BigJon]

I don't know about separation, but chipping is definately an issue for the ATRs.

[Tank]

Everyone keeps on commenting on the expensive price of Coopers. Just wondering what you guys are paying for tyres? I have just purchased a set of Cooper STT's after a lot of ringing around and pricing, and they were the same price as BFG's, Maxxis Bighorns, only about $10-15 dearer than dunlop, bridgestone etc., and about $40 cheaper than Goodyear MTR's. As far as the prices I came up with, they were about ball park with most of the other makes. By the sound of things, this obviously isn't the case over east.
Nankang Mudstars = $175ea. (33x12.5x15) fitted and balanced, good tyre on and off road, esp off road, Regards Frank

[discowhite]

These post's about Coopers have me a bit worried as just before Christmas I fitted four Cooper ATR's. As I mainly do alot more on road than off road. Has any one also had tyre seperation problems with the ATR's.
this is on page 3



parents put 5 brand new coopers, AT's on there 100 series, they got to cairns (left from rockhampton) on their way to the cape and did both rears! on tar! with coopers recomender pressures, again top came off like a re tread! yeah! top quality tyres them coopers!
i told you so came up alot!

thats 1071k's for 2 brand spankers!



cheers phil

[dylan gover]

BigJon, it really is a joke, "yeh, we give a 70,000klm warranty, so long as you don't go anywhere".
A mate had a set of Coopers Muddies and he tore a couple of lugs out of the middle of the tread and Coopers didn't want to know, he no longer uses Coopers, niether do I, I bought a set of Nankang Mudstars as did my mate for half the price of the Coopers, 40,000klms, mostly off road and there not even half way worn, see pics in my Gallery under "Tank" at 20,000k's, Regards Frank.

where u find thesemudstars u speak of. do they do a 255 85

[Shaker]

Cooper STs failed on my vehicle, so I put the survivors on my camper trailer, failed there too.
Warranty? ...... Don't start me on that!

[DassaW]

Ive been told that the Dick cepek's are supposed to be a good A/T,

Has anyone had any experiences with them?

[rick130]

where u find thesemudstars u speak of. do they do a 255 85

AFAIK, the only 255/85's available are Cooper ST's, BFG MT's and Maxxis Big Horn 762's.

[I Love My Landy!]

I've been told by a supposed man in the know that Coopers are a budget tyre in the states, and it's only due to their advertising techniques that they are used so much here.

I've been in the market for some new tyres for a while, so while i was at the Landy show in Cooma i looked around a lot at what tyres people where using, and i found that a very large proportion of the ST's viewed had bad chipping in comparison to other tyres i looked at.

[Michael2]

Don't buy Coopers.

I was talking to a guy at work with Coopers on his Patrol. I said I didn't like Coopers, he said he'd bought a set of 5 tyres and was now on his 14th tyre replacement due to chuncks falling off. He did say the last two they replaced with STTs, but he had to really push for that, and they haven't had the ST issues.

[Vern]

A mate has S/T's on his courier, put then on at 130,000, now up to 245,000 and would still be roadworthy, never had a problem with them, he's very happy

[garethbrown]

We just completed 22000ks with a D3 on a new set of Cooper STs on 17" rims. We went through the Pilbara, the Gibb River Rd, plus 2000ks of other rough dirt.

After only 10,000k's and 500k's of dirt they were chipping REALLY badly. Most concerning, though, was a kind of crease that was appearing on the side wall, about an inch off the tread. I kept my eye on it, and really made sure the tyre pressures were right every time the terrain changed, but the crease steadily got worse.

Managed to make it back to Melbourne w/o incident (only got 1 flat on the Gibb, which was better than most vehicles) but the day after getting back we got flat in the driveway. Closer inspection showed that the crease mark was opening up some bigger cracks, and one of these was leaking (cause of the flat).

The Coopers dealer agreed to replace the tyres under warranty, but I still had to pay for the wear I'd used (!). He agreed that it appeared to be a molding fault and that the chipping was particularly bad. That said, the tyres were from 2 batches, over a year apart, so I don't think it was a batch issue - a bit worrying!

Incidentally the tread was down from 14.8mm to 10mm/8mm (front/back) in only 22,000k, which was pretty poor I thought.

I never had problems on my Disco2 with these tyres, but I wouldn't recommend them for Disco3 (245/70/R17).

Also, if you take the smart decision to throw away your OE wheel brace (a piece of ****e) and buy a socket bar, don't buy a dodgy Chinese one from AutoPro. Mine flew apart with barely any load on it and I had to dig out the Stanley one...

[PaulP38a]

Hi folks
I've been running Cooper ST 265/70x16 on my P38A Rangie for about 6 months now and can't fault them.

On the bitumen they are marginally noiser than the Cooper HP's that were on previously, which were a lot noiser than the Michelins previous to those. Road handling is still pretty good but not as sure as the road-biased HP's.

Off-road the ST's have been brilliant. Never got stuck, never slid backwards or sideways (unintentionally), and only a few scary moments going downhill forwards when ABS decided to let the car go on and I wanted it to stop.

For me it was a toss-up between these and BFG-AT's - similar price and specs as far as I could tell. The thing that made me go with the ST's was the fact that so many of the people in the 4WD club I joined are fans of the ST and STT's.

Cheers, Paul.

[laurenl]

Oh tats great, hope i can follow this...

_______________________________
HID (http://www.hidxenonkits.co.uk)

[beforethevision]

To provide a comparison for tyre damage, this is the worst tyre damage on my BFG AT's after 60,ooo kms. They are well abused.
Its a small size, 235/75R15, and shallower tread depth than the larger verisons.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/8955/23102008175ud3.jpg

Cheers!

[Randylandy]

had no problems with my 31 10.5 15 I have on my jeep. excellent on the hard stuff not as good in the sand as duelers.