64/65 tire size changes
 

As I understand it for 65 the corvette went to 7.75x15 tires, up in width from the 64 (6.70x15). My question is this and probably a dumb one, but I would rather be safe then sorry. The 7.75's will fit my 64 without problems... Correct? Thanks..... vetzs

Re: 64/65 tire size changes (vetzs)
 

1964 models were OE equipped with 6.70-15s, 760 revs/mile, and '65 models were equipped with 7.75-15s, 775 revs per mile. Both steel wheels and K0s had the same dimensions both years.

No problem installing 775-15s on a '64, but I don't understand why. The only reason to install repro bias plies on old Corvettes is for NCRS judging, and 7.75-15s are not "correct" for '64s. For driving, modern radials should be selected. For best performance a 215/70R-15 with at least a "H" speed rating should be chosen. For easy cruising, and more sidewall style selections in a "low performance" tire the 205/75R-15 is the best match to the OEM revs/mile.

Duke


[Modified by SWCDuke, 10:05 AM 6/13/2002]

Re: 64/65 tire size changes (SWCDuke)
 

I'm not all that knowledgeable about tires, what I was looking for was to get a little wider look to the tire and a radial at the same time. I don't want to have problems with fitting the tire inside the wheel well, I don't want to be trip the lip or anything. I'd like a nice ride and good looks. but not at the sacrifice of any changes to the car that can't be easily reversed. Any more input on this would be greatly appreciated....

Re: 64/65 tire size changes (vetzs)
 

The '65 OE 7.75-15s were bias ply, not radial. The first OE radials on a Corvette were GR70-15s in 1973.

The best performing radial for your '65 would probably be the Pirelli P4000 Super Touring, 215/70ZR-15. The speed rating in the load index is "W", 168 MPH, and they are only available in blackwall. Michelin also makes a V-rated (149 MPH) Energy MXV4 in this size. Both of these tires are "all-season touring tires" which are aimed at high performance sedans and provide good midrange handling with good ride quality. There aren't anymore summer high performance tires in this size, or any size that provides close to the OE revs per mile figure. The OE 5.5" steel wheels are at the narrow limit for a 215/70, but are acceptable and the tires should not interfere with the fenderwheels. They will fit on a '67 with 6" Rally wheels, which have less positive offset.

I think the best setup would be to buy outright a set of repro '67 6" Rally wheels (be sure the offset is the OEM +0.06"). The offset on the 5.5" steel wheels is +0.44", so your track will widen 0.76" and the 215/70 won't look so pinched in at the bead.

As far as I know the OE '65 wheel covers will fit on the '67 6" Rally wheels.

Duke

P.S. I forgot. Probably the ultimate performance 215/70 is the "vintage" Michelin XWX 215/70VR-15 available exclusively from Coker tire - about a kilobuck per set.



[Modified by SWCDuke, 4:18 PM 6/13/2002]