Kumho Ecsta Spt

[xetor]

In a previous post I stated that I purchased a set of Kumho Ecsta SPT 205 15 50's for my Aerio.I now have about 800 miles on them and can report that my cars ride is vastly improved, it is more supple, the biggest benefit is in the handling the car sticks! The noise level is reduced is only slightly,I think the Aerio's noise comes from another source,not enough sound proofing, the shape of the body and perhaps insufficent shielding of the suspension from the body. Does anyone have any ideas about sound proofing? I tried putting big pillows in the cargo area and on the floor in the back seat but it only helps a little .Of coures with the excellent stereo this car has most of the time you don't notice the noise all that much.The car seems quieter when I fold down the back seat and the stereo sounds better this way also. Don't get me wrong I still love the car noise and all I really like the styling I know many object to it but it really suits me.I will post some images in a few days Robert

[Aaron Gilbert]

Robert,

Thanks for the feedback on the Kumho SPT, it's very helpful. I agree that much of the noise problem is due to inadequate or complete lack of sound deadening materials. My impression is that the worst of it is coming through the door panels and the roof. I'm going to focus on these areas by adding Dynamat or similar type material to those areas. However, I'm certain much of it is due to the stock tires. On a very new smooth road, the road noise is not loud at all and the wind noise is louder at freeway speeds. However, when I cross onto an old road, the road noise increases dramatically. Now true, more sound insulation will help in all cases, the fact that it's very quiet on smooth roads means the tires are playing a huge part in noise generation to begin with. On my other car, the tires do not drastically alter the level or pitch of road noise when going from a new to old road surface, though there still is a little increase. For this reason I think I am going to stick with a slightly lower performing all season tires such as the Kumho HP4 716 or it's replacement the Solus KH16 (once it's available in our size), when my Geolanders wear out.

As for the styling, I love it. Out of the six cars I was comparing a few months ago prior to purchase, the Aerio SX was the one whose style really came out and grabbed me the most. The others were all just OK. I love the Aerio even more now that I have switched to the 2002 tail lights.


Aaron Gilbert