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

I have a '35 1200 and I have been running Lester 7.5 17" tires, Im not seeing those being offered anymore was wondering if there is a good alternative at that size anybody is aware of?

As you may be aware, you've got the incorrect size tire on your 1200. The 7.50-17 was the correct size for the Twelve, the Eight and Super Eight used the 7.00-17 and these are available in Firestone, Lester and Bedford Famous Coach labels. The Bedford tires are very popular these days in this size (or the 7.50-17 size if you want to keep the larger but incorrect size), many folks including myself have come to favor the Bedfords in part because they have a more correctly sized whitewall (if that matters to you), and an appropriate "of-the-era" tread pattern. I've had mine now for just over a year and an very pleased. That said, I also had excellent success for over 25 years with the prior set of Lesters and found them to be an excellent tour tire.

PS - I purchased my Bedford tires and tubes from Lucas Tire. Note in the photo the metal inner tube valve stem, correct for 1934 but by 1935 rubber stem tubes were introduced.

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Thanks Owen, these are all bias ply??

Yes, Bedfords, Firestone and Lesters are bias construction, 6-ply or 6-ply rated. In my experiences radial construction offers little or no handling benefits on cars with solid beam front axles.