[Staowners] 16" Bridgestone Radial Tyres

[Rowan Charrington]

Greetings All,

The following radials are imported to Australia in small batches every few
years to meet the demand from we demented Sunbeam owners who seek to
minimise suicidal opportunities arising from driving ST's at speeds above
walking pace on the conventional tyres currently available in 16".  I bought
7 of the last batch of 20 to give me extra spares if or when I need them.

I am led to believe that Stirling Moss and others rallied their ST's on
special racing/rally (Snow & ice compatible) tyres developed for the
Scandinavian enthusiasts and other insane motorists of the time.  My current
tyres are:

Bridgestone Dueler H/T  

Product Code:- BS68411758016                 Bridgestone   701840
175/80R16 684.   Cost AUD$179.00, November, 2007.

 

I love my MK111 Saloon and enjoy its brisk performance with the Bridgestones
fitted.  However, I do not delude myself that the agricultural design of the
ST's suspension is anything other than "Upper level tractor" and keep myself
within safer margins than I apply for my modern vehicles.   Converting the
front suspension to gas telescopic shock absorbers has transformed the front
end and steering beyond belief and, when I do likewise at the rear, then I
feel the old girl will start to bridge the gap between 1955 and today's
handling characteristics.  Unfortunately, the standard lever action shock
absorbers are too light to serve as boat anchors but they do make
interesting conversation pieces when painted and displayed on the workshop
walls.  Just compare the number of linkage points affecting the response
times of the lever type compared to the direct action of the gas telescopic
shockers and the reason for the improved handling and steering response
becomes obvious.

Regarding the tightness of the tyre compartment for the 175 radials.  I used
a squat hydraulic jack and two long strips of hard wood to gently spread the
outer edges (with extreme care and attention to not causing any distortion
to the surrounding panels and boot opening) and was able to gain enough
expansion of the opening to now fit the fully inflated radial into the spare
wheel well with a gentle push.  Obviously this might not be achievable in
all ST's, (quality controls being what they were in 1955) but it is worth
considering.  It worked easily for me.

Kind regards to all,

Rowan Charrington.

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