[i](This is a copy of a discussion I have just placed on the "Open Hudson Forum")[/i]
It's time for new tires on my '37 Terraplane. For "looks" I'd prefer to stick with the 6.50x16 bias plys I've been using, which had a somewhat better ride than the original 6.00 x 16's. But I've heard wondrous things about the handling properties of radials and since I do a fair amount of "distance" driving I thought I'd consider them.
Yes, this has been a topic of discussion in the past. Just wondering if there's any new input on this subject.
Are radials significantly better for pre-War cars with solid front axles and leaf springs? Do the cars handle better with radials than with radials? Are they much harder to turn when parking? Is the life of a radial (of this size) much longer than that of a comparable bias-ply tire?
If radials are preferable, will the old 6.00 x 16 rim work? If not, is there an easily obtainable rim, Hudson or otherwise?
Who are the recommended manufacturers? I've heard Diamondback and Coker, in the past.
Does anyone offer a decent sized whitewall in a radial?
I'd appreciate some thoughts!
Hi Jon
I am using a 16 inch radial tyre on my 37 Terraplane coupe. They are brilliant. I have not even had to put a tube in them.
It rides better, steers better, a little heavier when parking but not to be a nuisance. I am slowly going to a radial on all my 30 cars as the need arises.
Trevor NewZealand
Trevor,
Thanks for your thoughts. Did you use the old rims? What was the radial tire size that was compatible with the old 6.00 x 16 bias ply size? What brand did you use?
By the way, have you registered your '37 with Robbie Williams of Michigan, USA? He has an enormous registry of still-existing 1937 Hudsons and Terraplanes. You may already be on the list but if not, he could use the information on the car (model number, body style, any interesting features or options, engine number and most especially the serial number.) Robbie's address is XXXrterramann@mymailstation.com (remove the three X's before mailing). He'd appreciate it, and I know he'd be happy to help you if you are trying to find any particular '37 out there that might possibly be on his list. (The list now has 500 or more cars and trucks!)
Try Coker tire online or DiamondBack tires. Each has lines of radials that are designed new as replacements for 6x16 and maybe 650x16. Stock rims are fine as the tires are the same width and height ( within reason ) $$$$ of course but the bias units are pricey now as well. 185-80r16 6x16 replacement, $209 black, $259 WW.
I've been told that the rims (wheels) used with bias type tires cannot stand the flexing that radial tires do, and the rims are likely to break. Circumferential cracks near the bead.
But then I converted a 1964 Ford to radial tires years and years ago (1965), and had no wheel trouble. Ever. The first radial tires on the Ford were 165-15 (Yes, VW bug tires.) Michelin tube type (special tubes). Bought them from Sears in the States when I was stationed in Germany in 1965. Had to scrounge wheels from wrecking yards in Germany. When I got back to the States I bought new Ford wheels and went on. Sold the car in 1975 or close. No trouble except the tube type radial tires would disintegrate if I had a flat at speed. That was dramatic.
Does anyone know an engineering -based answer or have more experience bearing on this?
Here's Coker Tire's website - https://www.cokertire.com
And Diamondback's - http://www.dbtires.com
IMO, go with the radials - and stay with your rims. Call Diamondback, ask them about the conversion (to radials), and what tires will 'fit the bill' for your 6.50x16 tires. IMO, unless a person is going the AACA competition route, radials are 'it'. I am unfamiliar with AACA requirements for tires (?) - so cannot respond to that. However Jon, I don't think that is a consideration for you anyway.
I'd probably go with the 215/85R16 WWW tires from Diamondback (P.24 of their online catalog) - Don't think the 75 series would look right... (and, they are all tubeless. Talk to the rep, they are very knowledgeable).
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