The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area General Truck Talk Can I use 235/85 16 tires on my 1953 3600

There have been lots of valuable threads on the topic of old school wheels, tires, and hubcaps. I have learned a lot, and I could not have done it without the great info that people have shared.

I now have the right wheels (8-lug 16 x 6 from Nuera Trailer Supply for about $54 includes shipping) and I have successfully tested a hubcap clip installation like Denny Graham explained. Very helpful, Denny, and thanks! I will post my pix when I get it all together.

Now the question - I have a 4.56 ratio, so I would like to use as tall a tire as I can. Looks like that would be a 235/85 16. Will it fit? Anyone actually using it?

Thanks!

Harry

I can't advise you on whether the sidewalls will clear the tie rod ends but my guess would be yes. I run a Yokohama tubeless radial on mine and although they have a narrow profile, they are about the same diameter as the 235/85 16s.

The tires you mention give you 653 revs per mile (ref The Tire Rack Specs). A 4.56 ratio will give you 4.56 x 653 = 2978 rpm at 60 mph.

I would think they would be ok, too. The only concern I have is the rim is a bit narrow for that width tire, but you should be ok.

i bought mine with these tires installed on my 51 and there doesnt seem to be any problem.

Thanks very much! Apparently there is enough clearance.

Just wondering, what brand were the tires? The "standard" specs for that size call for a 31.7 inch diameter, which would be more than a 10% improvement over the tires I now have (bigger = lower rpm and/or greater mph).

I really appreciate your help.

Harry

cant remember the brand but the od was right at 31. let me know how she goes when you get her going i have the same ratio and the stock tranny. I wont be on the road for a while and itd be good to hear how it rolls on the highway.
thanks
aubrey