1952-59 Ford 215/75R16s?

I realize 16" wheels aren’t traditional on these cars, but from an economic and ease-of-service standpoint, I consider radials a must on a daily driver. Looking at the original tire sizes Ford used (6.70-15 with a 28.58" diameter and 7.10-15 with a 28.88" diameter), it appears the closest radial size is 215/75R16 at 28.7" (there are others, including 15s, but they are all wider).

This ‘57 Chevy makes me think 16s will look pretty good on a ‘54ish Ford with the right tire.



Does anyone anticipate clearance issues with a 215 on the front? Let’s ***ume I’ll use aftermarket wheels that mimic the stock offset.

Thanks!

 

The wheel offset is the key,1952-56 fords have a very shallow rear wheel well.I have seen these on a '54 http://www.finishlinewheels.com/FORD/MUSTANG/2006/A-03589U35/ with the 235/55Z/R17 tires they did fit the rear no problem,the fronts needed a spacer with longer studs for A-frame clearance.Looked good on the car as this wheel has the old American 5 spoke look.

 

Thanks Jeff. My research says 235/55R17 is the 2006-2011 Crown Victoria Police Interceptor tire size. A little shorter than a 6.70-15 at 27.18", but definitely wider.

I always liked that Bullitt Mustang wheel.

 

By virtue of the wheels offset and the shorter sidewall profile is how it can get into the wheel well,by comparison the 14X6" ET's on my '54 with 195/75R14's was tight on the rear.

 

i have 215/75 r 15s and i have a tire rub on my 53. just saying. if i were you, go with the 205s. just my 2c

 

I see no reason why that 215/75R16 wouldn't fit just as good as the original 7.10-15, its nearly identical in height. My only concern would be the width, radials have a pretty fat sidewall, you may also have a little trouble finding a wheel in 16" thats narrow enough to fit the wheelwell, and as mentioned above, proper offset.

 

Thanks guys. 205/80R16s are 28.91" diameter. Those would work, but I wonder how widely they're available...