I am getting to the point of needing to replace the 215/70/15 Tires. I am just wondering what the recommendations are? Do I get better choices by changing sizes? Thanks,

Jeff
87 XJ-SC

Submitted by dougdwyer1@com… on Sat, 01/05/2008 - 11:29

Going to different and/or aftermarket wheels is certainly a viable option. For instance, 225/60x16, 235/50x17, and 255/40x19 all are very close in rolling circumference to the orignal 215/70x15

Appearance, of course, is entirely subjective. My tastes lean towards conservative so I find many modern aftermarket wheels have too much "bling" to compliment the styling of a Jaguar. That, plus the fact that not many aftermarket wheels have center holes large enough to accomodate the Jaguar hubs, would suggest that some of the 16"-17" OEM Jaguar wheels might be an alternative.

Another consideration is that some of the ultra low profile tires (like 50-45-40 series) bring in the possibility of tramlining... which could turn a rather expensive purchase into a very regrettable one.

Personally, I would go with a 225/60x16 on a Jaguar wheel, but that's just me.

Not sure where transmission shift points would come into the picture with the TH400 transmission used in an '87 XJS. Shift points are controlled by the vacuum modulator (engine load) and the governor (rpm), neither of which rely on road speed to function.

Cheers
DD

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1995 XJR

Submitted by gr8jaguars@yahoo.com on Sat, 01/05/2008 - 10:52

1954, XK120M (SE) FHC Metallic Silver
1968, E-Type OTS, S1 4.2L Red
1996, XJS, 4 litre convertibl

If you are going to change tire size, and don't want to screw up your Speedo or Odo or your transmissions shifto points, be sure to change RIM sizes too. Remember... a WHEEL is made up of a RIM and a TIRE. Go to a reputable(and Knowledgeable) tire dealer and have them explain the "Plus One, Plus Two, Plus Three" concept to you.

Be ready for a different feel to the car as you increase rim size and reduce side wall depth. It will be worth it.

The car will also look better with its new stance.

Submitted by dougdwyer1@com… on Fri, 01/04/2008 - 21:28

If you'll be happy with an ordinary passenger car tire then you'll have no problem, as there are umpteen choices

If you want a true high performance tire, well, there is virtually, perhaps literally, nothing available these days in a 215/70x15. If you go to a 215/65 or a 225/60 you'll find quite a few offerings. Either will throw your speedometer off by 3-4%, by the way.

Doug Dwyer
Longview Washington USA
1995 XJR