Ford Tech Won't Install Tires

[markboris]

The issue isn't really the stagger, it is how it is programmed from the factory. If the factory setup is staggered then the control software reflects that and no issue. When you change off of the factory configuration, that is when problems developed because the software reads the front and back wheels as travelling at different speeds, indicating slip. What that threshold level is, is completely up to each vehicle's programming.

I wasn't going to post in this thread about staggered setups but there are quiet a few here on this forum that have them (at last count a little over 10 I have talked to) so wanted to throw in my two cents.

I guess I should have mentioned this 1-2% difference staggered diameter setup is the tolerance that most manufactures seem to allow for. Some even go up to 3% before you start having issues. I don't have a lot of experience with the Mach-E only owning it for 7 months but based on other AWD cars I've had with staggered setups and working with Terrance from Signature Wheels with all of his setups over the last several years on AWD vehicles, so far haven't experienced any problems. We try to stay within 1% always even though I have seen others go as high as 3%. I understand there can be problems that may arise and if they do, we can easily adjust for it changing the tire sizes and move on.

That said, a few weeks ago I changed the summer performance tires on my wheels from 255/45/20, 295/40/20 (1% difference) to 245/45/20, 275/40/20 (0% difference) all season tires. The Mach-e will be the only vehicle I'll have to drive in cold temps and light snow.

Sponsored

 

[RMoore]

I’m upgrading our 4X from the OEM 225 summer tires option to 20”s with 245/45s

Quick questions as I try to learn more about tire and wheel mods: when going to the 20" wheels and those tires is the idea to have wider and lower profile tires but match the overall diameter? I imagine this is to improve handling but curious how you would predict this would affect the overall ride (e.g. would it be a stiffer ride?). Thanks.

 

[Pushrods&Capacitors]

Quick questions as I try to learn more about tire and wheel mods: when going to the 20" wheels and those tires is the idea to have wider and lower profile tires but match the overall diameter? I imagine this is to improve handling but curious how you would predict this would affect the overall ride (e.g. would it be a stiffer ride?). Thanks.

Correct, the overall diameter of the 245/45-20s is virtually identical to the OEM 225/55-19s. And yes, the shorter sidewall due to the 45 vs. 55 aspect ratio will contribute to better steering feel as well as a slightly stiffer ride. However, the increases in lateral and longitudinal grip due to the longer and wider contact patch will improve braking and handling.

The other big benefit is the reduction in unsprung weight of 7lbs at each corner, this will go a long ways towards improving the already good steering feel and shock tuning.

 

[RMoore]

Correct, the overall diameter of the 245/45-20s is virtually identical to the OEM 225/55-19s. And yes, the shorter sidewall due to the 45 vs. 55 aspect ratio will contribute to better steering feel as well as a slightly stiffer ride. However, the increases in lateral and longitudinal grip due to the longer and wider contact patch will improve braking and handling.

The other big benefit is the reduction in unsprung weight of 7lbs at each corner, this will go a long ways towards improving the already good steering feel and shock tuning.

Thanks P&C, interesting. Curious to hear back once you change over and you both have a chance to drive it some (your wife’s car if I recall). I don’t drive very aggressively but I would guess improvements in handling would be nice if the increased stiffness isn’t all that noticeable and one is ok shelling out the extra bucks for the wheel and tire combo.

Sponsored