Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

RogerDetroit -

If width is the only dimension of concern, then - yes - the 700R15 is closer to the 7.60-15. However, at nearly 3/4" taller, the impact on speedo reading will be greater.

I saw the link you had provided, and was previously aware of Diamond Back, but I'm not in the market for that type of tire - certainly not at $239 a piece (and up) - for my own drivers.

I'll give that the tread appearance of the 700R15 is closer to the original bias-ply tires, but who's carcass are they using?

Heck, I can get a quality, name-branded, brand-new, 225/60R16 radials for my daily driver for less than $100 each - not blems, either.

I'm just saying that a 225/75R15 is a reasonable compromise of fit, and it can be had in wide whitewall for less than the 700R15 - much less if you don't need a wide white.

PackardV8 asked -

Quote:
Never took any body measurements myself, but if you check the Body section of the 55-56 parts book, you'll see that the rear wheelhouse panels (tubs) are same Jr. vs. Sr. for all 55-56, EXCEPT Caribbean convertible.

I've experienced similar clearance issues, as reported by you and others, with 235/75R15s in the rear tubs, though only on one side. Letting some air out of the tire is fine - as long as you have a way to replace it.

For my 55-56 Seniors, I prefer the 235/75R15 as a reasonable replacement for the 8.00/8.20-15 (or even the later 80-series 9.00-15).

However, if I had a 55-56 Junior, the 225/75R15 is close enough to the dimensions of the 7.60-15 - at least for my tastes. Though only slightly narrower, it might just be enough to avoid the installation clearance issue.

BH writes:
"I've experienced similar clearance issues, as reported by you and others, with 235/75R15s in the rear tubs, though only on one side..."

YES! Good point that i forgot to include in my previous claim of 235 rubbing.

Just FYI the Diamondback 700R15 is on a Yokohama carcass

15's are becoming increasingly more difficult to find. As a future reference we need to start looking at 16" wheels and tires for possible retro fitting if it should come to that.