C 2 Tire Size

[Larry S.]

I have a '66 and a '64 C2 pair of Stingrays, and I know that they originally used 7.75 x 15 tires. I feel that these "öriginal" sized tires (polyester cord - bias ply) are correct for judging/show purposes, and I intend to keep them, but I would like to use radials and a tire that has a wider tread area than the Firestones that I have (about 4.75"wide)currently on the cars. Does anyone have a preference brand for "cruising", and what is a suitable tire size that gives a wider tread width, suitable inner fender clearance, and a more up-to-date look? Thanks

[Jay G.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size

My 67 has 215/70R/15 BFG Touring TA's Blackwall. Handles likes it on rails. BUT would suggest 205/70/15 or series "75". The 215's little large when turning wheels shrape to the left or right.

[Alan Drake]

Re: C 2 Tire Size

Larry - do a search on this subject, also rim size. Search on "Duke" for some good info.
I run 205 65 R15 92H M+S Michelin 92H M+S XGT - A4 Picked these because they are a very soft tire, low milage life. My rear tires are larger, however if I was to do over again all would be the 205 65. Watch out for rim size - I too save the high performance 4-ply on my KO's for the shows.

[Gerard F.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size

Larry,

I think you will find that the P205/75R15 are the closest diameter-wise to original basis ply tires although slightly larger and wider. I'm happy with the Coker's on my 67, although there are other brands supposed to be better.

After many miles on trips counting mile post markers, I have found that my odometer/speedometer correction factor is 2.3%, the speedometer and odometer run slow by that factor on my 67 s/b/3.08 rear. I realize that there are many other factors involved in this calculation, but the same correction factor is constant on numerous trips for my car.

The Coker's in that size are a standard deduction of 75% at flight judging.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179

[Paul L.]

C 2 Tire Size (Pic 1)

Larry,
I have the Pirelli P4000 Supertouring tires as discussed by Duke Williams in the Spring 2003 edition of "The Corvette Restorer." The size is P215/70ZR-15 and the wheels are American Racing 6". That section width of 215mm is about 8.47". At one time I measured the actual tread width and it is about 7". I have been very happy with that tire for cruising purposes. Pic 1 shows fender clearance. I will post a second pic showing how the car sits.

[Paul L.]

C 2 Tire Size (Pic 2) *NM*

[Larry S.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size (Pic 2)

Thanks to all of you and I can now decide on new tires that will not only look right, but ride decently too.
Thanks again.

[Paul L.]

The "Look"

Larry,
Many people do not like the "look" of the Pirelli but Duke W. put forward very persuasive comments on the safety aspects of a Z-rated tire. I bought in and have no regrets. I drive (my car is not NCRS shown) my 1967 with confidence in those four tiny patches of rubber that determine our ability to have a safe ride at whatever speeds and temps.

[Rob A.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size

Larry...

My stock '66 has goodyear 205 75 15...plenty of fender clearance, very slightly rub the frame at full turn. I don't know if it matters, but my car has power steering.

[Mark S. Lovejoy]

Re: The "Look"

Paul,

Could you please provide more info on the AR wheels? They are exactly what I'm looking for as a substitute for the goldline bias plys/wheelcovers. Did you paint them black?

Best Regards,

Mark
27152

[Paul L.]

Re: The "Look"

Mark,
Do a Google search on American Racing Model CL205. They are custom-made in the 6" width. The spokes come powder-coated grey. I used high-heat, black semi-gloss caliper paint to make them match the black stinger hood and rocker covers. Not NCRS as I noted above, but it is a pretty car.

[Mark S. Lovejoy]

Thanks, VTY MSL *NM*

[Gerard F.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size- Tub fit

Larry,

See the post below in regard to fitting the radial spare in the tire tub. My Coker P205/75R15 spare just about fits in the original tire tube on my late 67, with the longest stock front carrier bolts. (I think the bolts are 10 1/4"). However, the tub doesn't close tight but sits down with a gap. Diameter-wise, they fit as they are not much larger in diameter than the 7.75 bias tires.

If you go wider or larger in diameter, you might be wasting your money on the spare tire, as it will sit in the garage. If you are looking for a set of 5, check the width and diameter of the tires you are going to get against your tire tub. Lots of discussion in the archives on this. Not so sure the 215's will fit width-wise.

Jerry Fuccillo
#42179

[Jim W.]

Re: C 2 Tire Size (Pic 1)

Goodyear Eagle GA's on PSE Torq-Thrust wheels on my old '67 convertible.