Whitewall tires for a C2

[bill #36445]

I know a lot of people are using the Pirelli P400 on their mid-years, as recommended by Duke, but this tire doesn't appear to be available in a whitewall. I would really like to upgrade from the bias-ply "super deluxe" tires that I have to a radial but I'd like to stay with a whitewall. Does anybody have a recommendation for a good whitewall tire for a '65 convertible with steel wheels?
Also, what tire pressure would you recommend when switching to radials?

Thanks,

Bill

[Duke W.]

Re: Whitewall tires for a C2

My recommendation is the 215/70ZR-15 Pirelli P4000 Super Touring. Do not confuse it with the Pirelli P400, which is a low end, low speed rated tire.

I think that several have bought their P4000s from Diamondback, who can apply any of several sidewall treatments. It's not cheap, but normal driving and proper alignment should yield at least 40K miles of service, which is a lot of years for a vintage car that usually doesn't see high annual mileage accumulation.

The blackwall P4000 also has rather large lettering, which is not real attractive. I understand that Diamondback can also buff the sidewall to remove the large lettering, so you end up with a nice smooth blackwall.

Duke

[James W.]

Re: Whitewall tires for a C2

Bill,

The size 205/75-15 Pirelli P400 does come in a white wall. They are advertised on the www.tirerack.com web site for $55.00 each plus shipping. They carry a 118 mph "T" speed rating. The Good Year Regatta 2 size 205/75-15 also is made with a white wall and carry a 112 mph "S" speed rating and cost $66.00 from the Tire Rack plus shipping. Neither of these tires are a super high speed rated tire, but will work fine for most fair weather, Sunday afternoon touring. I chose the 205/75-15 Michelin Harmony tire. It is does not have a white wall and is a very smooth riding, low road noise tire and will work just fine for this summers NCRS Road Tour to the National Convention.

Good Luck,

James West
Omaha, NE.