The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Driveline changing from original wheels

I just installed 16 x 6 rims on my truck. I installed Firestone M+S 215/70R16 tires. Tread width is 6 1/2". Excellent, good looking tires that cost only $94 each.

Compared to the 15 x8 rims and small , fat tires that were on the truck when I got it, these are a VAST improvement in ease of steering, appearance, etc.

I actually wish I'd ordered 16 x 5 rims instead for both appearance and ease of steering. Even with the 5 inch rims it would still be possible to install modern 225/85R16 tires like the ones on my Packard. Those are Generals. The tread width on the 225/85R16 Packard tires is 6 1/4"

Tread width wider than 6 1/4-6 1/2 inches will be very difficult to turn when stopped or at very low speed.

I purchased the wheels and reproduction hubcaps from Wheelsmith. If you want to use original hubcaps, they will supply special clips to use original caps on their wheels.

If I were you, I'd check to see if 225/85r16 tires can be mounted on 16x4 rims. Are they split rims? If so, forget it. Buy new wheels. Most tire seller websites list a rim size range on which a particular tire will fit in the specifications section.