Dustin,there have been some recent discussions,both here and on other sites,regarding the less-than-stellar quality of Coker Tires.True,our trucks were designed for bias plys' ,but using as narrow a radial as you can find,and avoiding big "meats" has worked for me for years on a daily driver. I won't pay premium prices for average or below average tires.I also use an illegal suicide ****(we referred to those in an un-politically correct manner "back in the day") that helps my un-Popeye like 51 year-old arms avoid fatigue on our mountain roads.I won't argue about the stresses placed on stock rims designed for Bias ply tires,that's been argued to death,though not on a par with Widowmakers.I use stock wheels...........

 

Suicide aka Brodie ****: Chews the he!! oughtta the steering wheel.

I wasn't aware they are illegal, but they should be because of what they do to a steering wheel.

 

That's why I'm looking for a nice white steering wheel,but I can't bear to look at my current one when that **** is removed - it is chewed-up after 52 years.We in Ohio called those ***** by a term that referred to those Cadillac-owners who most favored their use.I'm more enlightened now.They were illegal in Ohio,but so was driving barefoot,and we always drove barefoot.Since I've only lived here 30 years,I can't keep my state driving laws clear in my mind!

 

I'm confused on this issue of gear oil versus grease. Could you please clarrify if this 'Ford' steering gear grease is the same as the "heavy gear oil" as designated on the filler cap on my stock '49 manual steering box which clearly says " use heavy gear oil". I have seen you mention this before, and I am wondering what's the scoop. Thanks #D

 

Here's a comparison between the two:

Michelin AG - Advantages - Bias vs Radial

You can run radial tires, however they should be the same section width as the originals in order to reduce steering component wear and rubbing on the frame at the steering stops. If you wish to use wider tires, steering effort will be increased and wear on the steering components accelerated. If the wider tires contact the frame at the steering stops, the steering stop adjusters can be adjusted to set the new maximum steering deflection. The stops are horizontal screws located on the spindle arms. Regardless of which tire you chose, keep in mind the suspension was designed for bias-ply tires. Running radial tires will alter the handling and ride of the vehicle.

 

Earl,keep in mind that his is a 58,the boxes are different.I believe yours uses heavy gear oil,but should check with someone who knows.

 

Thanks Steve, this always was a question on my mind I had read about/ seen both methods mentioned at different times.