The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk tires - old topic new question

From the posts I have read on here I am about decided on 215/85R16 tires for my '53 3100 5.7L. Question is: The only load range I can find them in is E (10 ply). I have E tires on my 2013 F-250 and it rides kinda rough. Will the ride in the 3100 be rough as well? thanks ralph

That size and load range tire are on my 1954 Suburban, with original 4.5" rim width. This is a little narrow for the tire rim-width rating, but it results in a taller tire (lower RPMs).

The ride is not rough and the tracking is good. I had to "fiddle" with the psi to find the right setting for smooth/easy steering and good non-wandering tracking.

Tim is spot on. I would suggest starting at about 40-45 psi, then raise/lower it until you get the ride you're after. Don't go too low, however. They do need to keep at least around 35psi for proper sidewall support.

Thanks guys. I didn't think about lower psi. All my tire experience has been about carrying the most load. I haven't found oem looking wheels yet. What width would be best for the 215/85r16's? I will need 5 on 4.75. So far I haven't found any. Thanks. Ralph.

6 to 7 inch would be ideal.

Yeah, radials on these trucks changes everything. Amazing the difference. That solid front axle is a bear to drive at highway speeds with those thin bias ply tires. WheelSmith is really a good resource as to what you need for radials. I think mine are 6 inches (15's). Good luck!

I have them on original 1954 4.5" rims. They have been working fine for more than 10 years.

Tim, I had that setup you have years ago with great results. Original rims with radials are just fine, but the caveat is that it's not optimal, nor is it what the engineers of radial tires recommend. But, if you have the rims already, and you want radials, and the tire supplier will put them on those rims, have at it.

If you need rims, get disc brake compatible ones (in case you get hit on the head and decide you want front disc brakes) and radial compliant ones. I think I went 10 years on the stock rims with radials.

Thanks for the well-meaning advice, but no thanks. I prefer standard wheel and standard brakes.

Oh yeah, I have been using inner tubes inside those radials (for over 10 years). That is supposedly also not recommended, but my authorized dealer recommended them on my wheels. I have been told here that the warranty will not be honored - I think that warranty ran out about 8 years ago (but, my dealer would have honored the warranty).

The original wheels on the 54 pickup wheels that I am restoring are beautiful - they will not need inner tubes.

Tim, off the top of your head, would you know the width of a 7.50x17 rim. Been reading everything that I could find and I believe it is 7.5". Can you confirm this. I now have the new pinion installed and need to upgrade the rubber (radials) on my 1 ton. Thanks in advance
Jim

Jim,

I am not a tire/wheel guy; but, others who posted above are pros (such as LONGBOX55). He'll know.

My bet is the rim width is 7.5"

According to GM Heritage, the original 17" wheel is 5" wide. I take it you have the original multi piece wheels? If so, you may find some difficulty finding anyone willing to service them, as it's obsolete technology. Most tire shops simply aren't setup for that type wheel, and aren't willing to equip or train for them. You really should also run the proper type tires for them, either bias or tube type radials. Tubes in tubeless tires is not recommended by any tire manufacturer, and the manufacturer warrantee will be voided.

Thanks Bill, I already dismantled them 2 years ago for blasting and paint. Three piece rims are no big deal! Put them back together no issues. I was raised around old Mack's and changed many a tire. Just trying to get as close a diameter tire that's on there now. Of course at the time I never measured the rim. Thanks again
Jim

Jim, as usual Bill has the info.

I did not realize you are referring to an original wheel. What year?

Here are 1954 wheel specs:

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/chevyresto/54159.htm

Tim it's a 53 and yes I will be using tubes( radial) not concerned about warranties. They will rot and fall off way before the tread is gone. I'm not Cosmo! Just a weekend cruiser

Thanks for the chart. Now I understand how to read the sizes. See you in York!
Take care
Jim

Jim,

Here is the 1953 page:

http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/chevyresto/53155.htm

If the creek don't rise, and my Suburban is roadworthy, and my daughter does not have complications producing my first grandchild (a granddaughter), I'll see you in York.

Congratulations!!