C2 tire size

[Mark F.]

I'm sure this has been a subject of several previous threads, but I've searched the archives and have not been able to locate an answer. What is the modern size tire that most resembles the original equipment tire on my '65 equipped with a small block engine? Thanks for your help, Mark

[Joe L.]

Re: C2 tire size

Mark----

Use a 195-75-R15 or a 205-75-R15. I'd recommend going with the 205 unless it's not available in the tire model you select, but the 195 is so-available. Finding a quality performance tire in either of these sizes these days is going to be difficult.

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 tire size

The equivalent revs/mi tire is either a 205/75R-15 or a 215/70R-15. The former are low performance tires with speed ratings no higher than "S". The latter size is available in all-season touring versions including the V-rated Michelin Energy MXV4 and the W-rated Pirelli P4000 Super Touring.

The OEM 5.5" wide steel wheels are at the bottom of the acceptable range for the 215/70. Six-inch wide KOs or the same width '67 Rally wheels would be a better wheel choice and 215/70s on either of these wheels will have sufficient fender clearnace except for possible interference at the front with the wheels near full lock and suspension movement in jounce. The OEM wheel covers should fit on the Rally wheels.

The 215/70 will not fit in the spare tire tub - no sure about the 205/75.

Duke

[Tom Merkel]

Re: C2 tire size - spare fit

Duke - After running my '67 without the spare tire carrier for several years, I recently re-installed it, and attempted to fit a spare 205/75 on rally rim into it. I use 205/75's for driving; they work well.

Anyhow, the 205/75 WON'T fit in the spare tire carrier. I pushed, shoved, and pleaded, but the 205/75 wouldn't fit. I was (at one point) sure the fiberglass cover might want to let loose if I forced it, so I was pretty gentle about trying to get it up-and-under.

Has anyone succeeded with getting this size into spare compartment?

Just FYI.

Tom

[Norm B.]

Re: C2 tire size - spare fit

I've got 205/75's my 63 coupe but that size won't even come close to fitting inside the tub. I'm thinking of going to 185 or 195/70 for the spare only and see if that fits. After all, it's only got to hold up one corner of the car to get me home. I'll probably pick up a couple of cheap used ones just to try for fit first. If that works I'll get a good one.

[Tom Merkel]

Re: C2 tire size - spare fit

Norm - That's exactly what I'm going to do; get a smaller, cheaper one for spare only. Let me know, please, what eventually worked for you.

Tom

[Duke W.]

Re: C2 tire size - spare fit

The problem with fitting modern tires in the spare tire tub is width, but you want the spare to match the revs per mile of the installed tires. Here's why. If your spare is shorter and you have to install it on the rear there is going to be significant differential action, which can rapidly wear the positraction clutches. If this is the case you will feel the car pull to the side with the shorter tire.

My suggestion would be to obtain a 6.70-15 or 7.75-15 bias ply tire as a spare. The former is a suitable size for a 205/75 and the latter for a 215/70, and it doesn't have to be new. For years we've been admonished not to mix radials with bias-plys and that is sage advice, but a spare is there to get you home. If you have to install it, just don't push the car hard and expect it to handle well at the limit.

My spare is a 6.70-15 Michelin X radial - one of the set that I ran from 1964 to 1968, and it is a good revs/mile match for my current 225/70R-15s. Visually is is in good condition - no sidewall cracks. It's a tube type tire and holds air quite well.

Duke