The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Tires for 16" wheels

I know this question has been asked before, but I'm trying to figure out what size radial I can use to replace a 6.50x16 bias ply. Any info is appreciated and pictures for comparison would be nice too. Thanks, Greg.

Light Truck 215/85R16

The recommended rim width is wider than our original wheels/rims, but mounting that side radial on a 4.5" rim will make the tire taller (lowers RPM) and narrower (makes the tires look more "natural" for the old truck).

Some people argue that mounting on a narrower rim puts strains on the sidewalls. That might be true for Le Mans racing, but no one has posted experiencing side-wall failure.

One pair on my trucks are 12 years old - well beyond the "warranty" period.

Some of the manufacturers such as Coker make a radial that size although they are quite dear.
I have 6.50 x 16's on my '51.

If you search the web, there are some cool tire sites that compare sizes visually. They also will give you speedometer/speed/rear gear ratio and other estimates.

I used blackwall Yokahama Geolander LT215/85 R16. Very reasonable price at $100 ea from Discount Tire.
https://goo.gl/photos/Pc5MmSJ5jeFZ7uCf6

Agreed. That size is a pit wide for the stock rims, but it is the closest you'll find. On the sidewall support issue, in my experience, it's more of a handling issue than a tire failure problem. At higher speeds (50+), the sidewalls lack proper support on a too narrow wheel, and this can lead to severe wander. However, for the typical use these trucks see, and the speeds generally run, it shouldn't be a problem.

Just want to mention that the 215/85/16 won't fit on the spare tire carrier on the side of the truck. I"ll be getting a 195/80/16, is about the same as size around as original. I"ll just use it for a spare.