Ice driving

[colin cohen <102621.2256@compuserve.com>]

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INTERNET:jsala@skynet.uah.ualberta.ca To: colin cohen 102621,2256

winter with our 91 Coupe Q. Car is equipped with new Michelin 205R15 XGT V4 M&S
tires. I don't know how many on this list will be able to relate to the
necessary driving conditions, but I wanted to bring this up for discussion.
>>>>

Welcome to the world of black ice and no footprint. I had the same exact
experience in a 4KCSQ on Belgian Firestones. I actually did some damage, but
the whole thing happened at about 20K. The answer is this (per the Bridgestone
Ice driving school at Steamboat): first - you must have tires suitable for ice,
ie many decent sized slits on the edge of the tire and inside the tread blocks.
I think they call these sipes. Second the tires need to be as narrow and tall
as you can live with - big compromise here if you plan on 160K autobahn trips.
Finally, be careful when you decelerate in any 4wd. You are in fact braking as
the transmission drag on all 4 wheels creates a lock up situation. You must
just lift up, not close the throttle.

IAE, your self proclaimed speed had you picked for this. Using such tires in
those conditions could be deigned as similar to a suicide call for help!!

Go carefully, you only get one life!