Michelin Rotation Interval

[kimboy]

I added some michelin tires to my 4runner and was wondering if a 14K mile rotation interval is acceptable. I initially rotated at 7K, but since I rotate my own tires ( I don't want the stealership scuffing up my aftermarket rims) I figure every 14K was doable. I also got a little lazy this past fall, so i figure the 14K mark was the right time for a rotation.

-The dealer charges 40 bones for just a rotation.
-Michelin Tires tend to last a while
-rotating every 14K miles means that after each 7K miles after a rotation, all the tires should show the same amount of ware.
- this is based on the 4 wheel rotation of course

Since I have the inner mounted weights, I know the spec on the rims today are slightly differernt from when I first got the wheels and tires (i figure its negligible since the dealer only rotates) but I don't want to change it.

Does my logic make the 14K interval correct, or should i stay with 7K intervals and balance the wheels every 21K?

Your suggestions are highly warranted.

DK

 

[wolfgang]

One reason I buy my tires ar Costco --- FREE lifetime rotation and balancing (plus flat repair and road hazzard). I've got to admit they aren't wery gentle with the rims though. And although they use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts - no two tires have the same air pressure!

 

[spyne]

Although I don't have any data to back this up, I think 14K is too long. That's assuming we're talking miles and not kilometers. If we're talking kilometers you're at the upper end of the recommended range.

All the data I've seen recommends 5,000 to 6,000 mile intervals between tire rotations. Otherwise the wear patterns become so deep that rotating the tires doesn't make much difference. If you've let them go 14K just once, it's probably not going to make much difference, but I wouldn't recommend it on a regular basis.

I've been using a 5 tire rotation pattern every 5K miles with my Michelins and have 36K on the original tires and expect to get another 30K or so out of them given the current wear rate.