1961 tire issue

[Russell #46855]

I recently purchased a 1961 Corvette. It currently hasthe original wheels/hubcaps and 4-ply tires. I would like to up grade this to a set of Cragar ss wheels and while/redline tires. i would like any advice on the wheel/tire size. thanks in advance.

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

I have 225-70-15 BF Goodrich on 5" wheels on my 61 and they fill the wheel wells nicely. I know the 5" wheels are narrow, but they have been fine for the last two years and 15K miles (most of it at 75-80mph) I had a set of 7" Cragar ss with the next size smaller, 215's I want to say, but they didn't fill the wheel wells enough. Either set up has no rubbing anywhere. I can e-mail you a couple of pic's (I don't do the posting thing well, way too complicated - the Vetteheads postings are much simpler).
Good luck!
Jim

[Terry D.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

Russell

Most people run either 205's or 215's up front. Anything larger makes the steering a little hard to handle especially in tight spots. The larger tire does fill the wheel opening better but I guess it is a matter of personnal choice. I run 215 Radial TA's up front and 225 Radial Ta's in the back and like it very much. Both sets run on 7 inch GM rally wheels. You will be amazed at the difference with newer tires on your car.
Terry

[Mike B.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

I believe my tires are 2.25-70 15 all around (I can check tonight and will correct it if I am wrong). Here is a photo of them mounted to my '61. While certainly not NCRS correct those old-school Cragar SS rims sure look period correct. Those are what I wanted when in high school - regardless of the car on which they were mounted.

There is no rubbing and steering response is fairly quick and light.

And sorry but I did everything I know to shrink to photo to screen size but could not get it to work.

[Mike B.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

I guess the photo did shrink down after all!

[Russell #46855]

Re: 1961 tire issue

I appreciate all the feedback. Although a new member, I am truly impressed with the support and interest. I look forward to many years of participation with this wonderful group of Corvette lovers. For Mike, what size Cragars do you use? Russell #46855

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

I have pics of both the Cragars w/ 215's and the steel wheels with 225's I can send via e-mail if you want.... I can't figure out this posting thing...
Jim

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

Here's the Cragars and 215's... I hope

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

Got it!!!

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

OK I think I got it... I had a double HTTP thing going on...
Here's the steel wheels and 225's...

[Jim K.]

Re: 1961 tire issue

Last one close up of steel wheel 225