Bias vs Radial tire cost

[edhd58]

I have had several options and opinions given.
All of which I have asked for and am grateful for. One was to buy "newer" 15" rims so I could fit any size radial tire I want.
What I have found will not allow me to run the OEM type hub caps, plus the "newer" rims are made different so the look will be different.
I have decided to buy the bias tires $136 per tire + tubes and go that route.
This car will not likely see any trips over an hour long. and probably less than 3 or 4k miles a year.
the savings will allow me to do a few other things i want as well.

[36coupe]

Originally Posted by junk yard kid

I used the 195 80 r16 bridgestone ecopia. Sure they are for electric vehicles but they fit good and arnt to expensive.

Same here
Nice ride and are almost the same size as a 600-16. Fit a 4" rim

[A bones]

Originally Posted by edhd58

I have had several options and opinions given.
All of which I have asked for and am grateful for. One was to buy "newer" 15" rims so I could fit any size radial tire I want.
What I have found will not allow me to run the OEM type hub caps, plus the "newer" rims are made different so the look will be different.
I have decided to buy the bias tires $136 per tire + tubes and go that route.
This car will not likely see any trips over an hour long. and probably less than 3 or 4k miles a year.
the savings will allow me to do a few other things i want as well.

So opinions were asked and given.
Ten calls were positively positive for radials.
Two say OK bias with respect for equipment.
One goes both ways (all about money).
One no vote either way, just buy new.
Now here is my rant. With bias you can expect tread wear on a regular schedule. You have me asking you to be careful in rainy weather. Bias tread can let go on rain slick roads WITHOUT provocation. The cost differential is not comparable.

(if you need to know, I not only lost my investment, after 23 years I still have back issues) Gee I wish I'd had radials!

[scooder]

Originally Posted by edhd58

I have had several options and opinions given.
All of which I have asked for and am grateful for. One was to buy "newer" 15" rims so I could fit any size radial tire I want.
What I have found will not allow me to run the OEM type hub caps, plus the "newer" rims are made different so the look will be different.
I have decided to buy the bias tires $136 per tire + tubes and go that route.
This car will not likely see any trips over an hour long. and probably less than 3 or 4k miles a year.
the savings will allow me to do a few other things i want as well.

There are 15" wheels available that are a real close look to the Merc and later pickup 15" wheels, these also use the stock caps. These don't need the adapted stock caps, just regular Ford caps.
If I remember the make I'll shout.
Martin.

[edhd58]

Guys, thanks for all the help, the tires are supposed to be here tomorrow according to FedEx.
Its now just a matter of wait and see how long they last.
if they fail or wear out too quickly i'll look at the 195-16 tires mentioned earlier.
Its not going on any tours just local stuff, i'm working way to much to do any tours. but again we'll just have to wait and see.

[trainguy]

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I know I will receive flak on this one,But I have taken the Diamond-back radials off 3 of my cars replaceing them with the Coker Firestone bias plys.The DB made t he car too hard to steer.I sacrificed the ride and handling somewhat,but I feel it was well worth the sacrifice! Phil