Tire/Original Rim?

[Tod59]

Hey Guys,

Tire size and original rim questions:

Question #1: Do these look like original '59 rims to you? I have the original hub caps too, but just wondering if this is the rim that would have come on the truck originally in 1959?

If they do look original, what size were original rims in 1959? 15x?

Question #2: Depending on rim size, will a 275x60x15 tire fit on the rear of the fleetside (tucked under the fenders with an original rear end still in truck) on the rims in the picture below? I also have a set of 225's for the front in a barn ready to install based upon your opinions.

Thanks
Tod

[OrrieG]

Everything you need to know about original tires and rims, from the link in my signature.
http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com...esto/56184.htm

[Tod59]

Thanks OrrieG, but I assume that the 56 chart you posted a link to is the same for 59? Honestly, I'm having a hard time deciphering the wheel information.....looks like 2 choices: 15x5 and 16x5?

Do you think the "tabs" to hold the hub caps in my picture are original or aftermarket?

By the way, nice build on your truck thread!

[Foot Stomper]

Tod59 I just went through this.

I have a 1959 GMC Shortbox Fleetside Deluxe and wanted to run stock wheels.

Here's what I learned... hope it helps!
Pre 56 trucks ran a 6 clip rim. These are 4.5" bead width. Between 56 and 59 GM offered a 15" or 16" with a 5" bead width AND three clip rims.

I purchased a new/uninstalled/used set of Coker 7.50 16R 107 tires for my project. They are being installed on my 16" 3 clip rims and then a joy ride to ensure clearances before frame off restoration starts.

At this point, I'm confident that my set up will work perfectly.

I'll post pictures after I recharge my phone battery. ... it's about to d

[Foot Stomper]

http://https://goo.gl/photos/jFxKUjkztmFwjGpj7

http://https://goo.gl/photos/NVg8VbQ9Xdfrn6Y99

[Tod59]

Originally Posted by Foot Stomper

http://https://goo.gl/photos/jFxKUjkztmFwjGpj7

http://https://goo.gl/photos/NVg8VbQ9Xdfrn6Y99

I can't open these links on my phone or laptop?

[Foot Stomper]

Originally Posted by Tod59

Hey Guys,

Tire size and original rim questions:

Question #1: Do these look like original '59 rims to you? I have the original hub caps too, but just wondering if this is the rim that would have come on the truck originally in 1959?

If they do look original, what size were original rims in 1959? 15x?

Question #2: Depending on rim size, will a 275x60x15 tire fit on the rear of the fleetside (tucked under the fenders with an original rear end still in truck) on the rims in the picture below? I also have a set of 225's for the front in a barn ready to install based upon your opinions.

Thanks
Tod

To me it looks like your picture is showing a 16" three clip which will have a 5" bead width.

[Foot Stomper]

Tod59 are you all squared away? problem solved?

[Tod59]

Yes, thank you. Looks like I have the 15 inch rims with 3 tabs for the hub cap. I was confused because with a tape measure, it looks as if the rims are 16 inch......but......a little research indicates that rim diameter is actually measured from the "inside lip" or tire bead seal area on the rim proportionally across to the other side.

So I calculate the dimension to be 15 inch rims.

Thanks Footstomper for the pictures today. Your GMC Fleetside is very cool!!

Thanks everyone!

[mr48chev]

Here, you should be able to dig out the tire and wheel specs and any others you want from this link https://www.gmheritagecenter.com/doc...olet-Truck.pdf

[OrrieG]

Originally Posted by Tod59

Yes, thank you. Looks like I have the 15 inch rims with 3 tabs for the hub cap. I was confused because with a tape measure, it looks as if the rims are 16 inch......but......a little research indicates that rim diameter is actually measured from the "inside lip" or tire bead seal area on the rim proportionally across to the other side.

Yes, measurement is at the bead line for diameter and width not edges. If anyone is interested Tire Rack has a good tutorial on tire sizes and decoding all the stuff on the sidewall. Also application information.