Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I am considering switching my polyester bias tube 7.00 16 tires to radials but do not know if the original rims are strong enough for radials - has anyone done the research?

No problem at all running tubeless radials.

I guess they are really wheels not rims; although a rim is part of a wheel. I ran Diamondback Hankook tubeless radial tires on my 115C with no problems. I think you will be happy with the tires, but probably not the price.

Thanks for the responses. As you know radial tires puts more stress on the rim flange than do bias-ply which can lead to cracking, metal fatigue and rim failure. SEMA has a number of white papers on the issue of mounting radial tires on classic bias-ply tire rims, I attach the article.
When I went with radials on my 58'vette I purchased new Welded rims at the advice of NCRS. T have installed radials on my '60 Cad, '63 Cad and '63 RR without incident, but all were post war classics. When I look at my 83 year old riveted rims on the '37 Packard that have been through many cycles I was not so sure the design and condition would handle the increased stress so thanks for giving me the benefit of your experience.

Attach file:

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WTC-2011-05-Bias-vs-Radial-Tire-Wheel-Fitment.pdf Size: 105.43 KB; Hits: 479

Many of us here have tubeless tires on our Packards. Some go with the Diamondbacks which use modern tire sizes that approximate the original size with and without the affixed whitewalls. Others use Coker and Diamondback Auburn radials which mimic the bias ply look and are made in the vintage sizes.

I would have your wheels checked for any problems and make sure they are not warped or bent. Otherwise, you should be good to go.