My '50 Chevy needs new tires. I rode in this car as a kid and fixed it for the original owner as a teen before I wound up with it. It had the original tires on it when I got it but the treads were peeling off. I put new tires on it when I got it but that was in 1974 and I guess those H-78 Bias-Ply's are "vintage" now too anyway. I need to decide wether to put $$-"original looking" tires on it or go for modern radials for better/safer handling. The big Hot Rod and Vintage Car-Show Swap Meet arond here is at Rhinebeck NY next month and they usually have all types of tire vendors loking for your cash. I tried those add-on wide whitewalls years ago but they flapped themselves off after a short time. They did look good to me but they are a little flashy-modern for a '50. Are those repro - "original looking" tires available in Radial? How about wide white radial? What Would You DO? This is exactly the way it was: This is now:
I would price bias ply tires. I would go with 3 1/2 inch whitewalls in size 6.70-15. That is what I have on my 1950 Chevy.
This is what I'm running. Bought 'em through Firestone for $300. Check out my web site for the details.
RADIAL WHITEWALLS!!! You married, got a wife, kids? If not, girlfriend then... Like to drive long distances? Don't want to follow all the ruts in the road, stop quicker when you have to? Feel safer? See above answer. If you want it to look the way you remember it, then the bias plys will suffice...but if you like driving it...are concerned for your family, then see the answer above...you WILL NOT EVER regret buying radials! R- WOW!!! Lookit that...my 2500th POST...that calls for a celebration...I'll let you know what I come up with!!!
The Jalopy Journal
