Is this post referring to a 1952 1/2 ton Chevrolet truck?

15" standard wheels?
17" next most common choice of wheels?
6.00x16 was base (standard)

15" would most likely have been third most common (after 6.50x16)

17"? 8-lugs, at least for 3/4-1 ton?

If the cable is lubricated sufficiently, Joe H's suggestion seems very reasonable.