Propickup Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/119529
DOUBLE THE LIFE: We used a digital decibel meter to measure sound level differences in the cockpit. in performance as both provided a sure grip and a positive feel. IT'S IN THE DESIGN Cooper's Discoverer M+S dedicated snow/ice tire is aggressive, with deep sipes and pliable rubber tread blocks, especially on the outside edges. These tread blocks can be easily manipulated with fingers, even in the colder weather; this pliability contributes to the tires' grip on the ice. Stud placement holes are strategically designed and located to give traction studs maximum support and bite. Discoverer's tread design features a zigzag deep sipe pattern to allow for snow and mud release, while at the same time providing a release for water when driving in rain or slushy conditions. Cooper calls this "D Squared D2 Sipe Technology," and despite the techy name, it works extremely well. The outside tread blocks, known as "Snow-Groove," are designed to provide a strong biting edge for snow and ice traction without reducing tread stiffness. "Whether heading out to plow snow, getting around town, or driving to the ski slopes for a weekend, our Cooper Discoverer M+S is designed to dig through snow and maintain traction on ice," notes Cooper's Product Segment Manager, Jon Thomas. "This provides the confidence and control that is needed in the most severe of winter driving conditions." UTILIZE A SECOND SET OF WHEELS/TIRES While we ordered a second set of wheels to go with the Cooper snows to enhance our test's accuracy, the benefit to contractors in the Snowbelt like Jim Thompson isn't hard to extract. Having two sets of wheels/tires – one for winter use, the other for summer – maximizes driving performance and vehicle control. It also helps maximize mileage on both while keeping the nicer summer wheels looking good longer. (Keeping the winter set clean by a weekly washing will keep them relatively corrosionfree.) In Jim's case, his winter rims (scored from The Wheel Wizard, stevescustom.com) are as nice or nicer than his stock Ram aluminums, so he will strive to keep them clean and corrosion-free. For those headed down this route, here are some helpful tips for buying and owning two sets of wheels and tires: Install a set of TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor Sensors) when you buy the new rims. Jim found a very reasonable set for BOTTOM LINE Jim and I were both sold on the combination of price and performance of the Cooper Discoverer tires. Together with a set of slicklooking aluminum wheels, mounting/balancing, and tire pressure monitor sensors, Jim his Ram at MVP Wheels (mvpwheels.com) for $49; others go up to $149 for a set of four. Before storing your winter or summer tires for the season, clean them thoroughly and apply a coat of wax or aluminum polish to protect them; keep air pressure in the tires to the recommended maximum, and store in a cool, dry place if possible. If price is a concern, buy a set of steel wheels to mount the dedicated snow tires on. Steel wheels are half to a third the price of OE rims. spent just under $1,400 to have a complete set of snows and wheels at the ready when winter hits. Now he'll be able to navigate the slickest driveways and roads with his pickup, and he won't have to worry about getting stuck on his way to a job site. www.ProPickupMag.com Pro Pickup Magazine is proud to announce the launch of the new mobile version of ProPickupMag.com. Stay up-to-date while you are on the go, with the latest news, How-Tos and products along with insight from our award-winning editorial team. Text INFO to 205-289-3781 or visit www.ppmrequest.com SP11638-CMG Mobile Website Print Ads-HP-PRO.indd 1 PP0413_Cooper M&S Review.indd 35 10/18/12 10:39 AM propickupmag.com PROPICKUP 35 3/11/13 9:55 AM