I just got a new set of Accelera RA 162 tires in 205 65 15. It's a cheap gravel tire in "medium" compound. I figured they would be great for SCCA rallycross and I've alwaya wanted to try a set of rally tires on my '68 beetle.
I took the tires to a shop under the same franchise as another shop that I know mounts rally tires. I brought them in and they had never seen rally tires and said they would give it a try. What I didn't know is that they had the wrong machine for it. They got one tire mounted and said they couldn't do the rest. Charged me nothing. The next day, the tire is flat. I find a leak at the bead. Took it back and they found damage to the bead. So far they have been unable to find a replacement and from what I found, these tires are hard to come by.
Now I'm unsure what to do. If we can't find another one, I would like to replace two of the four with something "similar" like some MFG ZG3s I found for twice the price. The whole goal is to do this on a budget and now I feel like I'm getting screwed.
Honestly the RA162s aren't a great tire, although they'll be just fine for rallycross. I'd put a tube in there and not worry about it.
Where are you located? If you're local to PA/NJ and can come by this weeked I can mount those or sell you some ultra cheap well-used Cooper or Hoosier rally tires.
Yep, tube it.
I've also had luck with breaking the bead, applying black silicone to the damaged area, and reseating it. That may not work on a rallycross tire but it works very well on RE71Rs.
thats not rare and not even great quality. I don't think I'm going back to MRF/Accerla brand. the only company importing those has spotty ordering and long lead times.
Too many failures would rather spend more to not blow up tires and loose events that you spend months in preparations for but you are using it for rallycross vs stage rally so that wont matter, see if you can pop the bead but not dismount the tire and get yourself a big tube of RTV and marry that tire to the wheel at the bead. it will do well or you can always tube it
Nonack has the right idea too, always look for 2nd hand rallys they are great for rallyX and usually available and affordable.
I haven't seen the damage to the bead, but it was a slow leak. Currently the tire is off the bead, but mounted so tubing it would be easy. Didn't think of that option. Not sure how I feel about RTV. I would think that would be a problem if it debeaded.
I live in Kansas and haven't been in the sport for the past couple years. Trying to get back in now that I have a truck and trailer to make it to more events.
Thanks for the input!
In reply to ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ :
Woah, do you do east coast rally stuff?
In reply to camopaint0707 :
We're kinda all over the place since that's where the events are, but home base is in Quakertown PA- there are a couple teams somewhat nearby.
