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Experience with runflat tyres on a ZT 260 V8
Is the peace of mind offered by runflat tyres what you want? Roger Parker sets out his experience and views. (Oct 07)

I have run my 260SE for a period of 15,000 miles with runflat tyres that offered peace of mind in the event of a puncture as there is no spare wheel, but the loss of ride quality with the solid construction runflats has meant a recent change back to standard type tyres. For the change I have chosen Toyo Proxes T1R following some very, very impressive performance from these on Dreadnoughts supercharged ZT260 when I drove it in Scotland.

When fitting runflat tyres it is necessary to have a tyre pressure monitoring system, as there is no indication of a deflated tyre other than by checking the pressure. Driving fast with a deflated tyre will see the tyre eventually break up. I chose a tyre pressure monitoring system which uses small transponders built into the inner ends of standard tyre valves and made by Schrader so have OE quality. These and the receiver/warning module come as a kit from 'Spal' (an Italian company) and the only visible element is
the multi coloured warning LED you fit somewhere conveniently within view. There is also a warning buzzer that sounds in the event of a deflation.

The system works by monitoring the signals from the sensors inside each wheel/tyre and there is a two stage warning if the pressures drop below specific thresholds with different coloured LED warning together with different sound alerts. System functionality can be seen every time the ignition comes on with a visible visual and audible system check, and then within 100 metres of driving that confirms all is OK with a green LED display.

I have nothing but praise for this type of system and at under £200 before fitting it is worthy of consideration for any car. As I have now changed to a conventional tyre the function of the system remains as with the runflats and in truth has a greater realistic value as it can give early warning of a slower deflation and allow you to stop at your convenience rather than at your inconvenience!!
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