Hi All...
Am wanting to replace the old bias ply tires on my 51 merc M1. So, a few questions came up and I would appreciate your opinions. Can I just simply use the same rims and put a set of radials on? Have heard that you need a different rim. Also, any favorite size of replacement tire using the existing rims? Any issues with front end or whatever when switching from bias to radials?
Any input would be appreciated.
thx
Rick

 

you can put radials on bias rims but not bias on rims meant for radials . that's what i understand , so go get 'em and get 'em on .

 

I just put a set of Firestone TransForce HT LT215/85/R16 on my '51 M1. They are a bit taller then stock, but given that we drive it lots I wanted the extra "gear". My tire shop had no problem mounting them on the stock 16x4.5 rims, they look really good and ride well for a 10 ply. I do get a bit of a rub on the steering when I turn all the way left, but it was doing that with the old tires too. Oh and they are way less expensive then Cokers, I love the look but could not justify the cost.

 

Life will never be the same……………………….just a lot better!

 

I'd suggest doing yourself a Google search to get some objective information on the subject. Here's a couple of good articles.

Radial Tires or Bias-ply for Your Classic Car
STRESS ON RIMS: RADIALS vs. BIAS PLY TIRES

I've tried to find real answers on this and as best I can tell there's no proof that it's harmful on small trucks and cars. I know that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have studied the subject, but have taken no documented action. That suggests they didn't find a reason to take action.

On the other hand, what I do know for a fact, early tubeless bigger truck wheels (17.5, 19.5, and 22.5) were not warranted by the manufacturers for use with radial tires. I also have SAE engineering documents that clearly state that rim failures were a problem on these early tubeless wheels. These SAE reports show that big truck rims were thus redesigned to allow them to withstand the load pressures exerted by radials. Wheels were subsequently coded with an "R" to show they were radial approved. Stu