1963 Tradewind Original Wheel & Tire size??

[BurritoWagon]

We will be hitting the road soon (long trip) to pick up our "new" 1963 24' Tradewind. I want to take new tires with us just in case we can't find the right size, tire stores in the area are scarce. I have read through (most) of several threads trying to find a specific answer to my question: Are the wheels 14.5" or are they 15" on a '63 Tradewind? I've read several times that some trailers in the 60's have 14.5...sometimes 15" rims are able to fit right on to the old axles, and sometimes they will not fit in the space~too hard to get them in. We plan to replace the axle once it's home and then I don't have to worry about size....

I already have 15" 6 lug Airstream wheels with brand new (less than 90 miles) 225/75R15-D tires mounted and ready to go. We briefly owned a 1972 31'...the bottom dropped out of it on I-5 north heading home about 70 miles after purchasing and new wheels and tires. Hoisted up the bottom with...Duct Tape and a lot of prayer and made it to the in-laws farm. Lifted it, what an adventure, took one look at the frame~or should I say "frame". There was almost nothing left...one cross member, a few outriggers, and most of one main beam that runs the length. Parted almost all of it out and are now starting fresh with a different trailer

Any help, specific to this trailer on wheel/rim and tire size would be great. I've located 7x14.5 mobile home wheels~used....need to know if I should purchase for the trip home.

Thanks!

[idroba]

I think that only the Bambi's had 13 and 14 inch tires. I have never seen anyone talk about 14.5 inch tires, anywhere, although mobile homes might have some weird special size, I don't think Airstreams ever had such a thing. I would say your 15" ones will probably be just what you need.

I had a '60 Flying Cloud and it used the same 15 inch tires that every AS but my '63 Bambi had. And I have had a lot of Airstreams...lol.

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by idroba

I think that only the Bambi's had 13 and 14 inch tires. I have never seen anyone talk about 14.5 inch tires, anywhere, although mobile homes might have some weird special size, I don't think Airstreams ever had such a thing. I would say your 15" ones will probably be just what you need.

I had a '60 Flying Cloud and it used the same 15 inch tires that every AS but my '63 Bambi had. And I have had a lot of Airstreams...lol.

If you search "14.5 mobile home tire" it brings up some of the posts I was reading. It's not that uncommon for the older ones to have 14.5. There was another person who went to purchase a Tradewind and did what I planned~took along some 15" with tires and they wouldn't fit the space for the 14.5 that it had. I just can't find if that affects the 1963...although looking again at pics...I'm not certain it is a '63!! Only one curbside window...I've seen that on a '59 tradewind, but not a '63! I can tell this is going to be interesting Just as long as the bottom doesn't fall out again.

[Frank's Trailer Works]

go with 15" Those 14.5" are on the earlier trailers not a 63.

[markdoane]

I was able to replace the 14.5" wheels on my '59 with 15" wheels, but it was a tight fit. The wheel wells on your new '63 are slightly longer than on my '59.
You might have a problem if the axles are frozen in up-angle and the spindles don't drop low enough to get the wheels off.
If it's really a '59 with leaf springs you won't have that problem.
I did open up the wheel well opening about 1" to make future tire changes easier.

[1963tradewin]

Go with bias ply 7.00-15 or if you go with radials 225 75 15 you will have to let the air out of the tire to get the tire into the wheel wells. I have been thru it with a couple of 63s. Its no fun! Especially if your not at home. Good luck!

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by markdoane

I was able to replace the 14.5" wheels on my '59 with 15" wheels, but it was a tight fit. The wheel wells on your new '63 are slightly longer than on my '59.
You might have a problem if the axles are frozen in up-angle and the spindles don't drop low enough to get the wheels off.
If it's really a '59 with leaf springs you won't have that problem.
I did open up the wheel well opening about 1" to make future tire changes easier.

Thank you! Which ever year it actually turns out to be, modifications will have to be made like you did...tire changes are hard enough as it is!

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by 1963tradewin

Go with bias ply 7.00-15 or if you go with radials 225 75 15 you will have to let the air out of the tire to get the tire into the wheel wells. I have been thru it with a couple of 63s. Its no fun! Especially if your not at home. Good luck!

Thank you, I'll have to locate some of those then. 1300 miles from home in Arizona is where we will be!! Did you ever solve the problem with new axles or anything like that? I'm hopeful that buying our second AS will go so smoothly this time...we pulled into Les Schwab with the first AS to get new tires before heading home. Those guys sure do run like they claim to do...they ran out like they are supposed to do, took one look at our wheels and axles, ran to lock up the place and ran to their vehicles and took off leaving us scratching our heads and stranded!
This time, there is no rust and thanks to your input, I'm hopeful that the simple tire swap will be as difficult as it gets!

[47WeeWind]

Originally Posted by BurritoWagon

We will be hitting the road soon (long trip) to pick up our "new" 1963 24' Tradewind. . . . Any help, specific to this trailer on wheel/rim and tire size would be great. I've located 7x14.5 mobile home wheels~used....need to know if I should purchase for the trip home. Thanks!

Hi BurritoWagon:

Why don't you contract the seller of your 1963 Tradewind and ask him/her what size tires presently are on the trailer? The tire size on the sidewall should give you an indication of the wheel size because 14.5" tires should not fit on a 15" rim and vice versa. Also ask him/her for the number of lugs and the wheel bolt circle diameter (Google that term for details on how to measure). Then you can take wheels and tires that should fit your specific trailer rather than other trailers from nearby years based on hearsay.

[Mark Wiltrakis]

I bought new rims and tires (ST225/75R15) at home and then drove to Iowa to pick up my trailer. The fit was snug but not problematic. My trailer had been stored in a barn, unused, for nearly 20 years. She was wearing 8.00x14.5 tires when I met her.
Best of luck with your new TradeWind -
Mark

[3Ms75Argosy]

I'll echo the radial issue brought up before... my '63 TW has the old bias ply tires on the 15" tires. With the old axle and the frozen beam, I haven't been able to put my new 15" rims and 225/75/15's on.... with my new Dexter (waiting to be put on), I"m sure I won't have that issue. If you can't find the 7-15.. I think Tire Rack - Your performance experts for tires and wheels sells some Yokohamas in the size that fit. OR.. you could find some cheap 215/75/15 to try.
Good luck!
Marc

[1963tradewin]

Originally Posted by BurritoWagon

Thank you, I'll have to locate some of those then. 1300 miles from home in Arizona is where we will be!! Did you ever solve the problem with new axles or anything like that? I'm hopeful that buying our second AS will go so smoothly this time...we pulled into Les Schwab with the first AS to get new tires before heading home. Those guys sure do run like they claim to do...they ran out like they are supposed to do, took one look at our wheels and axles, ran to lock up the place and ran to their vehicles and took off leaving us scratching our heads and stranded!
This time, there is no rust and thanks to your input, I'm hopeful that the simple tire swap will be as difficult as it gets!

I bought a new dexter axle. Good quality but had to customize the brackets to make it fit. If I ever do another I will buy from Colin Hyde in NY. He sells the Axis axle, and from the research I have done its the top dog. I would not replace the axle until you get home. Unless its absolutely necessary. The Airstream guy pulls these all over without problems. Where I would worry is the smaller Airstreams. On the tires I would definitely run 7.00-15 I read alot on tires and decided to go with 225 75 15 (I updated and had 7.00-15 I bought new for the trailer when I purchased it)The radials are a total joke removing air from tire to get in and out of wheel wells is just the beginning, you also sit lower to the ground, which puts your waste valve lower. If this valve drags from going over steep hills, debris etc. it can cost a fortune to fix. ride is not as stable, as the bias ply. The bias ply also run smoother. Although some prefer the radial, its not what came on the Airstream new from the factory. The 7.00-15 did. When I upgrade again I will not be buying radials. Good Luck on your adventures, and most importantly, Have Fun!

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by 1963tradewin

I bought a new dexter axle. Good quality but had to customize the brackets to make it fit. If I ever do another I will buy from Colin Hyde in NY. He sells the Axis axle, and from the research I have done its the top dog. I would not replace the axle until you get home. Unless its absolutely necessary. The Airstream guy pulls these all over without problems. Where I would worry is the smaller Airstreams. On the tires I would definitely run 7.00-15 I read alot on tires and decided to go with 225 75 15 (I updated and had 7.00-15 I bought new for the trailer when I purchased it)The radials are a total joke removing air from tire to get in and out of wheel wells is just the beginning, you also sit lower to the ground, which puts your waste valve lower. If this valve drags from going over steep hills, debris etc. it can cost a fortune to fix. ride is not as stable, as the bias ply. The bias ply also run smoother. Although some prefer the radial, its not what came on the Airstream new from the factory. The 7.00-15 did. When I upgrade again I will not be buying radials. Good Luck on your adventures, and most importantly, Have Fun!

So....these should work for getting it home with the axles that are currently on it?......from Sears
Sears: Online department store featuring appliances, tools, fitness equipment and more

[3Ms75Argosy]

Wow those things are gold! I checked Tirerack... it's only about $10 per tire cheaper there... Also note that you will end up with a GVWR of 4000 pounds with these two tires...
But yes, those will get you home... and more. You might also want to check Les Schwab tires around you.. see if they have that size at a more affordable price.

Just fyi... radials do ride "softer" than the bias plys.. and its standard on all the newer AS as well. Radials weren't around when our trailers were built.
Marc

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by 3Ms75Argosy

Wow those things are gold! I checked Tirerack... it's only about $10 per tire cheaper there... Also note that you will end up with a GVWR of 4000 pounds with these two tires...
But yes, those will get you home... and more. You might also want to check Les Schwab tires around you.. see if they have that size at a more affordable price.

Just fyi... radials do ride "softer" than the bias plys.. and its standard on all the newer AS as well. Radials weren't around when our trailers were built.
Marc

WELL!!! Finally got the seller to get back to me...and the tire size currently on this Tradewind are 7.5 X 16, so not even the same! Finally got all the other pictures we kept asking for too...and I'm not so sure about it anymore. For some reason, the belly pan separated at a seam and is hanging down just a little. Maybe they removed a water tank or something? There IS rust and I'm thinking that after what happened with our first trailer....I just might pass~something is telling me to. If it were just my husband and I going, that'd be one thing. But 4 little ones and #5 on the way, not sure I'd be ready for what adventure this trailer might bring just on the way home. Would be great for someone who didn't have to tow 1300 miles back home....the guy dropped his price to $700 gutted and I can post all the pics. You all have been super helpful, thank you so much!! We've been offered a 1965 22' Safari for $2500, gutted...only a teeny weeny bit of rust on the edge of the bumper and one dent that doesn't scare me and the rear end looks great! I'm kinda thinking that's the way to go...and only 11 hours of driving....

[1963tradewin]

Originally Posted by BurritoWagon

So....these should work for getting it home with the axles that are currently on it?......from Sears
Sears: Online department store featuring appliances, tools, fitness equipment and more

Those will work perfect!

[1963tradewin]

Originally Posted by BurritoWagon

WELL!!! Finally got the seller to get back to me...and the tire size currently on this Tradewind are 7.5 X 16, so not even the same! Finally got all the other pictures we kept asking for too...and I'm not so sure about it anymore. For some reason, the belly pan separated at a seam and is hanging down just a little. Maybe they removed a water tank or something? There IS rust and I'm thinking that after what happened with our first trailer....I just might pass~something is telling me to. If it were just my husband and I going, that'd be one thing. But 4 little ones and #5 on the way, not sure I'd be ready for what adventure this trailer might bring just on the way home. Would be great for someone who didn't have to tow 1300 miles back home....the guy dropped his price to $700 gutted and I can post all the pics. You all have been super helpful, thank you so much!! We've been offered a 1965 22' Safari for $2500, gutted...only a teeny weeny bit of rust on the edge of the bumper and one dent that doesn't scare me and the rear end looks great! I'm kinda thinking that's the way to go...and only 11 hours of driving....

There usually is rust on all of them. I would stick with the 63 over the 65 unless you are absolutely sure there is damage. The 1963 Airstream was the 1st year of a stronger frame the exclusive Aerostress all steel undercarriage. Just because the bellypan is hanging means nothing. Might be as simple as putting a couple rivets in. Never herd of the 7.5x16 on a 63 interesting!

For 1963 Airstreams

700 x 15 truck·type nylon tubeless tires (8 ply
on all single axles; 6 ply on tandem axles and
19' Globetrotter; 650 x 13 4 ply white sidewall
on 16' 8ambi)

Good luck

[BurritoWagon]

Originally Posted by 1963tradewin

There usually is rust on all of them. I would stick with the 63 over the 65 unless you are absolutely sure there is damage. The 1963 Airstream was the 1st year of a stronger frame the exclusive Aerostress all steel undercarriage. Just because the bellypan is hanging means nothing. Might be as simple as putting a couple rivets in. Never herd of the 7.5x16 on a 63 interesting!

For 1963 Airstreams

700 x 15 truck·type nylon tubeless tires (8 ply
on all single axles; 6 ply on tandem axles and
19' Globetrotter; 650 x 13 4 ply white sidewall
on 16' 8ambi)

Good luck

Not so sure it is a 1963....it looks like a '59 that I've seen with only one window on the curbside of the trailer and that's what this one is. I asked for a pic. of the wire plug...and I think I've confirmed because of that, that is is a '59 and not a '63. In 1959, Airstream used a 4 pin wire connector and that's what this one has! I found the Bargman schematics for the years following and they had 7!

[MarkR]

Get the owner to tell you the Serial Number - then you'll KNOW what year it is.

[worldinchaos]

Originally Posted by BurritoWagon

Not so sure it is a 1963....it looks like a '59 that I've seen with only one window on the curbside of the trailer and that's what this one is. I asked for a pic. of the wire plug...and I think I've confirmed because of that, that is is a '59 and not a '63. In 1959, Airstream used a 4 pin wire connector and that's what this one has! I found the Bargman schematics for the years following and they had 7!

Could be a 1960 or 1962 as well by the window argument. 60Tradewind4
1962TW_242T862

I probably wouldn't use the wire plug as indication since that could have been requested different or easily rewired upon purchase back in the 60's.

I agree with the S/N plate verification. Or maybe if it was gutted, does it still have the interior lights? Those were pretty year-specific from what I understand. I know the fixtures in my '59 were different than those found in '58 or '60 Pacers.