More on 17.5 Michelins...

[wingnut60]

Several years ago, I changed out the 16" GY 614s for 17.5" wheels and Michelin XTA tires--got the package from Trailertiresandwheels.com
This combo worked excellent for 4+ seasons and over 25000 miles. May 12, we started out on an extended trip to AK and back for four months--
while camped in Provo, UT, campground--noticed severe wear on inside of LR tire--had looked tires over very closely before starting trip and the wear occurred in less than 1500 miles. Put the spare on and went to Big O tires in Orem, UT. Diagnosis was tread separation--since other 3 were same age, I decided to replace them. But, Michelins had gone from $245 up to $406 and weren't readily available. Opted this time for Cooper Roadmaster 160s--yes, they are Chinese mfg, but Cooper guarantee, and after talking to Scott at TTW about them, I am convinced they will work fine and for $269 each. While changing out the tires, found a 2nd tire with beginnings of tread separations. XTAs were 41-07 (2) and 01-08 (2) mfg dates.
I have never liked the reputation of Chinese-made tires, and have readily bad-mouthed them whenever asked. Now, will have to wait and see how they do. Load Range on the 160s is H, and capacity at 125psi is the same 4805 as the XTAs at 120.
Joe