52 Carl -
When you changed to the radials, did you use radial tubes or tubes at all? I have a 54 with 16" rims. They look like they have a lip where the tire would seal but Universal and Coker tire reps say I need a radial designed to be used with a radial tube. (Big sales pitch - blowing smoke?) The reps say the rim design changed in 55 to a different rim lip. Any additional info would be appreciated.