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Just purchased a 66 custom cab 2x2 F100 with 78k original miles. Tires were over 30 years old!
I am having the 15" stock wheels powder coated and am looking for new tires. I do like the stock look but do not want bias tires
Looking for tire size/brand recommendations. Looks like originally the truck had 775-15 bias tires. Radial conversion is 205/75/15...That seems really small.
I have heard others sung 225/75/15 or 235/75/15. Thoughts? Thanks in advance
I have the same goal. My calculations indicate that the correct size, in both diameter and width, is either 205/85R15 or 215/85R15. Tires in an 85 ratio are hard to find and might in fact be unavailable by now. I have considered 235/75R15 but I don't want a fat tire with manual steering; I have that size now. I have found that both the diameter and section width of 225 and 235/75R15 tires can vary by as much as an inch among manufacturers so there is a range that the nominal size doesn't indicate.
Eric
I have the same goal. My calculations indicate that the correct size, in both diameter and width, is either 205/85R15 or 215/85R15. Tires in an 85 ratio are hard to find and might in fact be unavailable by now. I have considered 235/75R15 but I don't want a fat tire with manual steering; I have that size now. I have found that both the diameter and section width of 225 and 235/75R15 tires can vary by as much as an inch among manufacturers so there is a range that the nominal size doesn't indicate.
Eric
I agree. I'm starting to think I should go for a bias tire...
Run 235/75R-15 for the past 40 plus years. The issue would be the clearance between the leading edge of the tire and the front fender. In pic it appears the clearance is substantial but this week I replaced the old load leveler shocks for a standard Monroe shocks, what a mistake, now the clearance measures approx. 1 1/2".So far, regardless of road conditions or terrain no fender to tire rubbing.
Yes, after several bonehead mistakes the trans and clutch assembly finally installed and now in the process of installing the carpet, debating with self whether to order new or clean old and install. Also seems front single piston calipers, pads, or both dragging but at least it's drivable? Been workhorse for past 40 plus years but with this last repair job I am not yet comfortable driving further than walking distance.
I have the same goal. My calculations indicate that the correct size, in both diameter and width, is either 205/85R15 or 215/85R15. Tires in an 85 ratio are hard to find and might in fact be unavailable by now. I have considered 235/75R15 but I don't want a fat tire with manual steering; I have that size now. I have found that both the diameter and section width of 225 and 235/75R15 tires can vary by as much as an inch among manufacturers so there is a range that the nominal size doesn't indicate. - Eric
I agree 100%, Eric. I also have 235/75-15s (BFGoodrich) on my '65 F100 without any issues.
You do bring up a good point regarding the manual steering...... if you have the original diameter steering wheel, manual steering should not be too much effort. But, if you have manual steering AND installed a smaller diameter steering wheel - you will need arms of ATLAS to turn the wheels when moving slow, like when parrallel parking!
265/75-R16's fit under my 66 with no issues at all. It is f250 with stock suspension, I'm pretty sure the F100 and F250 have the same ride height and track width stock.
I also really like the looks of a bias tire on these ol' beasts, but the ride is very unforgiving!!
A radial-type tire will provide a much nicer ride quality.
After all this, what tires are you considering now?
BarnieTrk
Well after days of going back and forth I decided on a set of Coker STA Transport, 700-15 tires. Since my truck will only be used for short local distance trips I decided to go form over function. Once I get the tires mounted on the newly painted rims I will post a photo.
This is a good thread on tire size. I am looking for radial tires that will fit the stock narrow rims. Are you guys that are running the 235/75/R15 having issues mounting and driving with the stock narrow rim?
