The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Swapping out 18" wheels on a '55 3800

I picked this up somewhere along the way, maybe on this site:

"1-ton w/duals - Although the original dual wheels were 18", for modern replacements, use 8-lug dual 19.5" wheels from a 1975-99 “step van” and 8R19.5 tires. They are also available new from Accuride, Rickson Truck Wheels and other sources. I believe Accuride part number 29015 is what you are looking for."

Is it worth the money to make this swap or shoulld I just buy a set of 7.00x18 tires from Coker and keep the original wheels?

Which approach better fits your intended use of the truck?

If you want to show it as close to original as possible you need to run the Cokers. If you want to work the truck at modern mighway speeds you don't want the old design tube type tires.

its all about what you like not anyone else just like old sub said

You picked it up from our very own Tech Tip on wheels and tires for big trucks:
http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/wheels/

I agree, for a work truck go 19.5, for a non working or infrequently used truck go the cheapest way, for a show truck go original.

Look for some used wheels first, they are out there.. Double check they will fit over the drums before buying, but
I think you'll be fine.

Grigg

Thanks for your thoughts. This is a great old truck that I have had for many years but it isn't a show truck. Since I intend to continue using it on my farm, I guess I better start looking for new 19.5' wheels.

I just wish that this resource had been available 50 years ago when I started fooling with old trucks. You guys are terrific!

Thanks again.