Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

I am currently restoring a friends 1946 Packard Deluxe Clipper.

It will not be a exact restoration as it was her father's car and she just wants it in good shape.

Now for the questions. 1-What tire size should I go with. I've had three different answers so far. 2-Will the wheels support tubeless tires?

I'm more of a Studebaker nut so I'm not all that Familiar with Packards.

Thanks for any help I can get.

I've never owned or worked on a Packard vehicle of that era, but I'm presently compiling content (behind the scenes) for an online index to supplemental service information for the 1941-47 Clippers.

Information on new models was often published in the factory service newsletter in advance (and sometimes in the absence) of the factory shop manual. The October 1945 edition of the Service Counselor (SC Vol. 19, No. 10) provides a list of mechanical specifications, which shows 6.50x15 for the Deluxe Clipper (Chassis 2111).

Perhaps other members (with more experience than me) can provide additional insight on the use of tubeless tires and/or alternate tire sizes.

No guarantee as those rims were made long before the advent of tubeless tires, but I've got many friends who have successfully and without problems put tubeless tires on Packard rims back to 1941 and perhaps earlier. A bit of sealant on the rivet heads couldn't hurt as a preventative.

Buying the correct OEM sized tires is no problem, though they will most likely be tube-type. As to radials, plenty of size conversion charts around, or any tire retailer or supplier worth his salt should be able to advise. Or go to Coker's website, I believe the recommendations for size interchanges are there.

Thanks for the reply. Now for the question about the wheels.

I have a 1947 Super Clipper and have radial tires on the original rims. I have had no problems since instaling them about 4 years ago. I had the rims sandblasted before painting.

I have used tubeless tires on my 49 convertible and my 48 super 8 sedan for over 15 years and have not experienced any problems. Both of these cars are driven regularly.

Thanks guys for the info. Now I'm ready to continue. I do appreciate the help.
I'll post some pictures later.

G'day Realkiller,
to PackardInfo. Looking forward to seeing pic's of the '46 you're working on.

Anyone got any info on Cooper Fury tires ? Saw some for sale and wondered if name is a good one?

Howdy - you're running them tubeless?

Ever had one roll off under hard cornering/emergency manuever?

Do you drive these at highway speeds?

Thanks,
John in Virginia Beach, VA