Tires too big?
 

I have a set of old NOS 8.00-15 bias ply WWW tires that I am considering using on my '41 sedan. They are a little shorter than a 6.50-16 with a little more cross section and a little tread width. Are these too big for a '41? The other thought is to flip them and use that money towards a set of Diamondback 6.50-16 radials. Anyone have experience with these? Thanks, Dave

Re: Tires too big?
 

How old are the NOS 800-15's??
Paul in CT

Re: Tires too big?
 

I don't really know but they are old. They are Allstate Guardsman still in the wrappers. The rubber seems to have life in it.

Re: Tires too big?
 

Might have manufacturers date code some where on inner wall.

Re: Tires too big?
 

When thinking of swapping tire sizes, determine the circumference of the original and proposed tires. Make a chalk mark on the floor and on the sidewall of the tire, then roll the tire one full rotation, and make another mark. This will give you the distance the tire makes. Compare the proposed tire distance. This will tell you both the speedometer offset, and the effect of the rear end gearing. If more than ten percent, you may reconsider the swap.

Re: Tires too big?
 

Three thoughts on your situation. Flip those donuts and get Diamond Backs. I've yet to own or drive on them, but I have read post after post on this forum. Never heard a complaint. When I'm ready to finish up my project Diamond Backs for me. Next, traction control, steering ability, ride comfort all get better with radials. L-last not least, during the period when the market was transitioning from bias, bias belt, and the ultimate, radials there were several articles and warnings. These words were printed in various mags and industry publications. "When mixing bias and radial tires the radials must be used only on the rear. If radials are used on the front and biased on the rear, the front can take a path on a curve that the rear bias tires cannot follow. The result is a loss of traction in the rear, therefore a loss of control". Or something like that, I read these words, I understood them. However 25 years later looking save some bucks and achieve a little bit of rubber rake, I proved this theory. I managed to buy a couple of lengths of guard rail, give my pride and joy to the salvage man, and experience the thrill of barrel rolling a car down a hill. I prefer full sets of radials today.

Re: Tires too big?
 

Quote: "When mixing bias and radial tires the radials must be used only on the rear. If radials are used on the front and biased on the rear, the front can take a path on a curve that the rear bias tires cannot follow. The result is a loss of traction in the rear, therefore a loss of control".

I've done that! No crash, but an interesting ride. In the late 70s went on a long road trip with a mixed set and they were changed when I got back. Very hard to control.

Re: Tires too big?
 

Friend has 1974 Monte Carlo that was a graduation present, always stored and very low miles all original. Took it out for a drive a few years ago and rear tire shredded getting the 1/4 panel and trim. I'm now a little leery of driving my cars that have sat for extended periods even though tires are like new. Or is it ok if they have not been mounted?

Re: Tires too big?
 

I would not put much faith in a old tire.

Re: Tires too big?
 

Forgot to consider the age factor. They must have a couple decades on them.