Tire Size Change?

[Bigredno8]

I have a 1995 Taurus,that has 205/65/15 size tires, can I change it to 195/65/15 without any kind of problems

Thanks
Steve

[mechhound]

May I ask why you would want to change? I assume you have some of the smaller tires or can get some free or relatively cheap. The smaller tires would lower your load carrying capacity slightly, but would probably still be adequate for the Taurus. They would also throw your speedometer(as well as the odometer)off, It would show you are going faster(and farther)than you are actually going. At any rate, always keep a matching pair( same brand, style and size) of tires on the drive(front) axle to help prevent long term drive train problems. Just my opinion.

[Bigredno8]

its a money thing,I only use the car for work purposes,no long daily traveling involved,that is why I was curious if it made a difference

Thanks
Steve

[baldhead]

your speedo will only change faster if you go with a smaller # in /65/spot in tire size to compensate for the load capacity add air not a whole lot just 2-3 pounds

[drdisque]

actually, going smaller on the first number WILL affect your speedometer, just not much. Now his tire height is 65% of 195 and not 65% of 205.

I think the main issue is safety. The 205's are already inadequate from a handling standpoint and 195's would be even worse.

[baldhead]

sorry it was always my understanding that the first and second numbers refered to the exact size in millimeters of the tread width and sidewall respectively

[mwt878991]

Here is a very good calculator that compares and tells you what your speed error will be

http://www.1010tires.com/tiresizecalculator.asp


Mike