tire durability question - flatted again on gravel

[lovetoski]

I've flatted twice in the past few years on gravel roads. Both times it was a small stone pushed up through the tread. One was a bridgestone dueler (31X10.50) and just yesterday was a Les Swab TXR (33X9.50/15). I recently got a set of used 15X8 rims so I can run a wider tire, so I have some options.

After yesterday's flat though I have a question - are gravel roads that tough on tires, or was this just bad luck? Both the tires were 4 ply in the tread, is that too few for "durability." I've nearly memorized the different factors for some of my tire options (speed rating, load rating, side-wall plys, etc.) But most tire sites don't list treadplys (Interco being the exception.)

Would higher tread plys be more resistant to stone punctures? Does a thicker tread make a difference? I've read that bias ply are tougher in the sidewall - are they tougher in the tread area too?

Thoughts/comments welcome...

 

[tonkota]

Gravel is tough on tires. Are the TXR's ready for studs? That seems to be where problems arise for my uncle who drives about 15 miles a day on gravel roads.

BTW, I run the TXR (31 x 10.50) and really like them a lot. Seems to be a good compromise tire.

 

[lovetoski]

Are the TXR's ready for studs?

Mine are stud ready, but the stone punctured the TXR in between the lugs, not close to the stud holes. They have been good tires, especially good in snow/ice, partly because they're siped I suppose.

 

[Cruiserdrew]

Off topic-I thought the TXRs were a good tire for the $$.


On topic-Gravel is very hard on tires. I lost an MT/R on gravel in Death Valley this year. It punched a 4 inch gash directly in the tread. I think it's the risk of the game, and not the fault of the tire.

 

[dogboy2]

I guess you're lucky you only flatted a couple of times..... the chipped basalt they lay down here in Oregon will destroy even the toughest of treads. I know of one road in particular that averaged 2 - 3 tires per vehicle after it was freshly rocked. Kept the local tires guys in big smiles but got so bad that ODOT had to post warning signs all over the place. The solution was to drive very slowly, i.e. sub 20 m.p.h. Most of those tires were irreparable by the way.

-dogboy- '87 FJ60