Hey all. Not sure if I have a '52 or '53 yet, but was wondering about wheel size. Was there a standard for GMCs and a different one for Chevy by chance? My GMC has 15" on it, but my Chevy parts truck has 16" and I would rather use the larger wheels to make it a little beefier look. Any thoughts? Thanks.
Welcome, Gypsy! I might suggest you search the archives as there has been much discussion on wheels. You can't go wrong with tall and skinny if you are looking for handling and a little better mpg. Just take a minute to use this sight's search function and see what you find. Again, welcome, Gater
Hi Gypsy - Welcome! Here is a link that you might find useful: http://chevy.tocmp.com/chevyresto/53155.htm The link is for Chevy trucks but it does say either 15" or 16" were used on the 3100 series. I have a 1953 and just put the original 16" wheels back on it.
i meant to ask you jeff, you said you put the original wheels back on. are you running radials on split rims? or did you have them switched out? just curious. and welcome, gypsy!!! jon
Use 16" Wheels ...And be _SURE_ to run radial light truck (' LT ') tires for not only safety but good ride and road holding as sure as God , you're going to drive this thing faster than GM intended... Plenty of info on the right size radial to use , it makes a real differance as too fat a tire (the # 1 most common mistake) makes these old rigs steer like a Peterbuilt on flats and too short side walls ( the # 2 most common mistake) makes the engine race at speed above 45 MPH so look read and PAY ATTENTION before you $pend good $ on the wrong tires.... In 15" -OR- 16" , you want at least a 29" tire .
Jon - my originals rims are 16" one piece. No problem putting the radials on them. I read where tire stores have refused to mount radials on the 4.5" width rim but my local tire guy had no issues at all.
I have a set of 15 and another set of 16. I went with tthe Coker 16 radial tire. It has been very good to date. I have changed rear end gears and the tires work well at higher speeds. If anyone wants to buy a set of 15" Mariner Blue wheels, i've got a set to sell.
Coker tires have gotten a bad rep in the past. Do they offer a good warranty now? And did you get it, if they offer it?
I had them installed about a yr ago, 500 miles for me. Don't recall the warranty, but it seems reasonable at the time. i could look it up later.
