Hi Steve
I have the Cooper ST Maxx in 265/70/17 on Performance Wheels alloys 17x8. I have done numerous trips to Flinders Ranges; the High Country last April and the Outback Loop (Birdsville - Innamincka) last Oct towing 1800kg camper and have had no issues like you. Indeed they are excellent offroad and handle fine on road- my only comment is that they are a bit noisy around town but I have kept the OE 19" rims and tyres for city use and keep the ST Maxx for mainly Offroad. Oh and the fuel consumption is higher with the more aggressive tread and larger size~ 1-1.5L/100km depending on all the usual variables!
Previously I had 245/70/17 STT's which were loud on bitumen! I lost a single lug on a rear tyre in Kakadu probably because I had the pressure abit high on a track that became unexpededly very rocky with a heavy load. Fortunately I have a really good relationship with my tyre agent who rang Coopers and recommended they replace my tyre with a new one- which Coopers agreed to without question. So I couldn't really complain about that!
So I agree with Graeme re tyre pressures to avoid damage and regularly adjust them according to weight & terrain. However the ST Maxx have stronger sidewall than the AT3. I think having a good rapport with your tyre agent is just as good as the brand as I have always been well looked after and see no reason to change from Coopers as I am very happy with them and never had a flat tyre. Indeed I once hit a rock (in a Jeep!) on a track near Dalhousie Springs and damaged L front alloy rim (new alloy required!) but the Cooper STT at 26 psi was undamaged. So my experience has been positive with them in contrast to others on Coopers- but I have always had LT tyres offroad and regularly adjust pressures which no doubt helps. Regards, David
Defender MY21 D300 SE: Off Road Pack,Explorer Pack, OEM Bull Bar, GME XRS, Tow Pro Elite, Ironman winch, spotlights & light bar, front undershield, Tough Ant 18" brake conversion kit: BFG K02 LT265/70/18
Gone: Fuji White MY14 HSE; Silver D3 MY09 TDV6 SE
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