HI David,
I had MRF's on my GPW (and there are alot of other jeepers in OZ with MRF's too) and had no problem with them- people poo hoo indian tyres, but for the price and driving i did on them, i cant knock them. I ran them for about 1500miles until i could afford a set of firestones. I was (still am) really happy with them (MRF's)- i had heard rumours of bar treads and wet tar roads, but with cautious driving for conditions (as usual when on tar!) i never had a problem with the MRF (or firestones) fitted, and ALOT of those 1500 miles on the MRF's were in rain/wet roads- my luck!
In summary, i was happy with the MRF's and if needed another set, would happily buy more any day.
However, at the price you were quoted, i can see why you would go with the US tyre. Don forget to contact Antique Tyres (vic based) if your after the Coker manufactured Firestones.
http://www.antiquetyres.com.au/ as they should be passing on the high dollar in their tyres- may be easier/cheaper than importing them yourself.
http://www.antiquetyres.com.au/16900
I paid around the $140 (i think) mark in 2008 when the dollar was lower too for the firestones on my GPW imported through a mate here in sydney who is now out of tyre importing. I think at the same time antique tyres had them for around $160>$180?
Hope this helps.
Cheers,
Ian.
__________________
Ian Fawbert
1942 Script Willys MB, sn:131175
1942 Script Ford GPW, sn:11730
1944 Ford GPW
1943 #3 GMH jeep trailer
1945 #4 GMH, RAAF jeep Trailer
SOLD: Ford F15A. Aust. #? Office Body.
www.vintageengines.net