Tires: tire size on all wheel drive, mitsubishi 3000gt vr, mitsubishi 3000gt

Question
I have a 1999 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4.  I am looking at replacing two worn tires on the front with tires that are 0.6" shorter.  Do you think that is a big deal in terms of the rotaional speed with the all wheel drive system?  Do you think it will cause a problem with the drive or wheel mechanics?

Answer
Nigel,

It is my understanding that AWD vehicles are sensitive to differences in tire diameter to the point where it is recommended that not only should the tires be the same size and type (same manufacturer and design), but also with about the same amount of wear.

I think this means that your plan is likely to result in rapid wear in components you just don't want to wear rapidly - the center differential.  Plus, I've heard that on some AWD's, these differences in diameter will cause the center differentials to think they've got a slipping tire (or 2) and activate the locking mechanism.  This would cause some extremely weird, and perhaps dangerous, handling characteristics.

Hope this helps.