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

I have a 1953 Clipper Deluxe and go back and forth between the 760.15 American Classic Radial and the 820.r15 American Classic(L78/15). The 820.r15 asks for a 6" rim. Mine is 5.5. The car has had L78.15 (820.15) on it for the last 30 years with no problem. Any information I need or suggestions will be appreciated. Coker will sell me the 820r15 with no problem. I just want to be safe and accurate.Brenda

Hi Brenda:

Not sure what you mean by "accurate". If you mean a recognized replacement size for the original 7.60-15, those would be H78-15 in the alpha-series, and P225/75R in the 75-profile radial series. If the vendor of the 8.20r says it's OK on a 5.5" rim, then I guess it's a safe choice, but not accurate.

If the 820r15 has the same width profile as the L78 on the car one other thing you might check while the L78s are on is how easy it will be to get the rear tires off. Some have had issues with replacement shocks not letting the rear axle drop down far enough for the larger tires to clear the opening and others have had issues with the profile of radials typically being a bit wider than bias tires and not being able to move past the opening for changing without deflating the tire a bit.

IMO, my 1953 Clipper with the L78x15 wide W/W Coker tires looks great and have been on the car for years. Also, I did find out (as HH56) observed, that it is necessary to remove the rear fender skirts to remove the tire. I hadn't thought about the shocks, but mine aren't an issue. Hope this helps.
Steve