# Wobbling Wonder: A Deep Dive into Handling Issues After Tire Replacement on a Fo
**URL:** https://diyrvforum.com/t/wobbling-wonder-a-deep-dive-into-handling-issues-after-tire-replacement-on-a-fo/251
**Category:** General
**Tags:** tires
**Created:** [April 22, 2025, 11:57am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/wobbling-wonder-a-deep-dive-into-handling-issues-after-tire-replacement-on-a-fo/251 "2025-04-22T11:57:33Z")
**Posts on this page:** 2
**Page:** 1
### Author:  [@Matt](https://diyrvforum.com/u/Matt)
#### Post date: [April 22, 2025, 11:57am UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/wobbling-wonder-a-deep-dive-into-handling-issues-after-tire-replacement-on-a-fo/251/1 "2025-04-22T11:57:33Z")
# Wobbling Wonder: A Deep Dive into Handling Issues After Tire Replacement on a Ford Transit
[https://diyrvforum.com/uploads/default/original/2X/2/28d50b1955c6dbf95616ba88c2ca667bbffce778.mp3](https://diyrvforum.com/uploads/default/original/2X/2/28d50b1955c6dbf95616ba88c2ca667bbffce778.mp3)
Replacing tires should be a routine upgrade, not a source of dread. However, @vanlifecrisis’s experience highlights a common problem: new tires, even of the same size and load rating, can sometimes drastically alter a vehicle’s handling characteristics. Let’s dissect the possible causes behind the “sway” and tracking issues plaguing this 2020 Ford Transit F350.
**The Symptoms:**
- **Sway and Poor Tracking:** The most prominent complaint is increased sway and difficulty maintaining a straight line at highway speeds. The van drifts side-to-side by a foot or more.
- **Wind Sensitivity:** The issue is exacerbated by wind, suggesting a possible interaction between the vehicle’s inherent top-heaviness and the tires’ response to crosswinds.
- **Tire Pressure Fluctuations:** Significant pressure increases were observed during the initial road trip, indicating heat buildup within the tires.
- **Limited Success with Tire Pressure Adjustments:** Increasing the front tire pressure to 70 psi did not yield a significant improvement.
**Possible Causes, Ranked by Probability and Impact:**
1. **Tire Construction and Compound Differences:**
2. **Tire Pressure - Still a Contender:**
3. **Tire Manufacturing Variation and Break-In:**
4. **Alignment Issues:**
5. **Suspension Components:**
6. **Rim Width Compatibility:**
**How Much Sway and Handling is Normal?**
This is subjective. However, a well-maintained Ford Transit, even a high-top extended version, should track reasonably straight at highway speeds without requiring constant steering corrections. Some sensitivity to wind is expected, but the described “foot or more” of side-to-side movement is excessive.
**What Can Be Done to Reduce or Eliminate the Problem?**
1. **Re-Evaluate Tire Pressure with Accurate Weight Data:**
- **Action:** Get the van weighed at each corner and consult the Michelin Agilis Crossclimate DT tire load inflation chart for the correct pressure. Pay close attention to the maximum load rating for the specific tire size and load range, ensuring it exceeds the heaviest axle weight.
2. **Contact Michelin Directly:**
- **Action:** Explain the problem in detail and provide them with the vehicle information, tire specifications, and observed symptoms. Inquire if they have any specific recommendations for tire pressure or other adjustments for this particular vehicle and tire combination. They may have technical bulletins or insights not readily available elsewhere.
3. **Professional Alignment Check:**
- **Action:** Take the van to a reputable alignment shop experienced with commercial vehicles. Ensure they check and adjust all relevant alignment angles (toe, camber, caster).
4. **Consider Aftermarket Suspension Upgrades:**
- **Options:** If the problem persists, explore aftermarket suspension upgrades designed to improve stability and reduce sway. Options might include:
- **Rear Sway Bar:** Improves roll stiffness and reduces body lean.
- **Upgraded Shocks:** High-performance shocks can provide better damping and control. Brands like Bilstein or Fox are often popular choices.
- **Leaf Spring Upgrades:** Stiffer leaf springs can increase load capacity and reduce rear-end sag, contributing to better stability. However, stiffer springs may negatively affect ride quality.
5. **Evaluate Alternative Tire Options:**
- **Research:** If all else fails, consider switching to a different tire model with a stiffer sidewall and a tread pattern optimized for dry pavement handling. Read reviews and consult with tire specialists to identify suitable alternatives. Look for tires specifically designed for light trucks and vans that prioritize stability and load-carrying capacity.
**Should You Take Them In for Inspection or Replacement?**
- **Definitely take them in for inspection.** At the very least, a reputable tire shop can verify the tires are properly mounted, balanced, and inflated. They can also visually inspect for any obvious defects.
- **Replacement:** Don’t immediately demand a replacement. Give Michelin a chance to offer a solution. If, after exhausting all other options, the tires still exhibit unacceptable handling, then explore the possibility of a replacement with a different tire model. Some tire retailers offer a satisfaction guarantee that allows for tire returns within a certain timeframe.
**The Bottom Line:**
The change in handling is most likely due to the construction and design of the new tires. However, don’t overlook the importance of correct tire pressure and alignment. Start by accurately determining the optimal tire pressure based on actual weight data and consulting with Michelin. If the problem persists, consider more advanced solutions like suspension upgrades or alternative tire options.
#vanlife #fordtransit #tires #automotive #suspension
#vanlifeproblems #fordtransithandling #tiresway
#autoadvice #vanlifetips #mechanic
yakyak:{“make”: “gemini”, “model”: “gemini-2.0-flash”}
---
### Author:  [@Matt](https://diyrvforum.com/u/Matt)
#### Post date: [April 22, 2025, 12:26pm UTC](https://diyrvforum.com/t/wobbling-wonder-a-deep-dive-into-handling-issues-after-tire-replacement-on-a-fo/251/2 "2025-04-22T12:26:42Z")
To contact Michelin about issues with your new tires, you can use the following methods:
- Phone: Call Michelin’s Consumer Care at 1-866-866-6605, available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM EST. For the Tire Concierge service, which can assist with tire-related questions, call 1-888-633-3339.
- Email: Reach out to Michelin Customer Care at [michelin@michelinman.com](mailto:michelin@michelinman.com).
- Online Contact Form: Visit [www.michelinman.com](http://www.michelinman.com/), navigate to the “Contact Us” section, and fill out the form with details about your vehicle, tires, and issue. Responses typically take 2-3 business days.
- Mail: Send correspondence to Michelin North America, Inc., Consumer Care Department, P.O. Box 19001, Greenville, SC 29602-9001.
Since you’re experiencing problems with new tires, you may also want to review the Michelin Promise Plan, which includes a 60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee and limited warranties for treadwear or defects. Contacting an authorized Michelin dealer can also help with warranty claims or inspections.
For faster resolution, describe your issue (e.g., specific tire problem, purchase date, or dealer) when contacting them, and consider calling during less busy times, like Tuesday or Wednesday, to minimize hold times.