The Ford Barn

RHD · 04-11-2013, 07:11 PM

How many kilometres can one expect to get from a set of new Firestone, or any other reputable make of 19" and 21" tires?
I feel the answer is going to be very little, compared with new modern radial tires.
We all pay enough for both modern and Model 'A' tyres. Why the vast difference in tire life?
The best I have ever had from a set of 19" was 15,000 miles, where a modern radial will give around 100,000 kilometres.
Are we being quietly led up the garden path by crafty tire manufacturers?
Or is it simply the fact that our Model 'A' tyres are not of radial design?
Could not a 19" or 21" tyre be formed as a radial?
I know by changing a Model 'A' to 16" radials it improves the steering and general handling by about 200%.
I used to sell Model 'A' tyres in my parts shop, and the main complaint apart from price, was the miserable mileage from tires.
Any thoughts folks?

04-11-2013, 07:11 PM	#1
RHD Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: New Zealand Posts: 677	Tire Life. How many kilometres can one expect to get from a set of new Firestone, or any other reputable make of 19" and 21" tires? I feel the answer is going to be very little, compared with new modern radial tires. We all pay enough for both modern and Model 'A' tyres. Why the vast difference in tire life? The best I have ever had from a set of 19" was 15,000 miles, where a modern radial will give around 100,000 kilometres. Are we being quietly led up the garden path by crafty tire manufacturers? Or is it simply the fact that our Model 'A' tyres are not of radial design? Could not a 19" or 21" tyre be formed as a radial? I know by changing a Model 'A' to 16" radials it improves the steering and general handling by about 200%. I used to sell Model 'A' tyres in my parts shop, and the main complaint apart from price, was the miserable mileage from tires. Any thoughts folks? __________________ R.H.D. Silence is golden unless you have kids, then silence is suspicious. Last edited by RHD; 04-12-2013 at 03:30 PM.