Tire size for a '60 Overlander

[Scott S]

Anyone know what size tire would originally been on my 1960 26' Overlander? It has the leaf spring suspension and has a SINGLE axel. I have used Goodyear Marathon 225-75R15 LR D for years, but with all the bad press I don't know that I want to press my luck. The current ones look poor and should be replaced before the next trip. I am thinking that the original tire would of been something like a 7.00X15 LT but don't know. I am thinking that I would prefer a radial over a bias ply but which one would be stiffer in the side walls? With 26 feet of trailer perched upon only one axle, sway is an issue. If bias ply would help I will go that route!

Thanks!

Scott

[Scott S]

I should of noted in that the current tires, 225-75R15, are actually too wide for the trailer. I use 7/32" spacers to keep them from rubbing up against the shock stud bolts. Any suggestions?

Scott

[Sugarfoot]

My 1960 Tradewind (single axle, leaf springs, 5200# Hadco 4" axle) came with 15 inch wheels and the original specs say 700 x 15 8 ply truck tires. I had problems finding 15 inch truck tires with enough load rating that would fit the wheel well. Same problem, too wide.

Last fall I replaced the original wheels with 16 inch from Low Cost Trailer Supply (WH166-60E, 16" x 6, rated for 2780 lb, 0 offset, 6 on 5 1/2 bold pattern) and went with BF Goodrich Commerical T/A radials (LT215/85R16/E). It is my understanding they discontinued the load range D tires, but I've had no problems with the LR E ~ 2500+ miles on them to date, they fit, ride smooth, and everything in the coach stays put when traveling.

[Scott S]

Sugarfoot,

Thanks for the info! Chances are very good that we have the same axle. I was wondering if 16" wheels would fit. You answered that question as well. My tire width problems seem to be centered around the studs for the shocks, not the wheel wells. However I did "flip" the axle a few years back to give us extra ground clearance. I am cool with the LR E tires. I am thinking that the extra capacity is good insurance. I have a truck guy looking into tires. He was suggesting that an even higher load range would be good in that they would cost just about the same and have stronger side walls. I will see what he comes up with.

Scott

[Beginner]

Besure to run the recommended tire pressure for the original tires in the Commercial T/As not 80 psi. To obtain a Pressure/Load chart go to the Michelin web site and go to the appropriate place for this chart.
Beginner