Tires for 63

[Boyan B.]

I'm at the stage where I need to buy tires. The judging manual lists whitewall and blackwall (option-p91) as both used. I want a quality reproduction tire that meets NCRS Top Flight standards. I'm OK with the standard deduction for the DOT stamp. Problem is I like the look of the blackwall, but cant seem to find anyone who carries it. I've tried all the standard suppliers (Coker, Kelsey, Universal and Lucas) and they dont carry the Firestone 500 or BFGoodrich lifesaver.

Does anyone know who carries these? Also, the whitewalls are listed as made of Rayon and the blackwalls are Nylon. Which is better? Was the blackwall-Nylon a more performance option at the time, or the cheaper route?

Thanks.

[Dennis C.]

Re: Tires for 63

Boyan, I'm a little out of my (C1) league here, but I don't think you be lookin for a Firestone 500. Don't believe that designation had been invented in '63.
Check the 63/64 Judge Manual for the proper terminology. Best, Dennis

[Boyan B.]

Re: Tires for 63

I took the requirements from the judging manual, page 76 denotes blackwall nylon tires option P91 as available thoughout the 63 and 64 model years. No restrictions on useage. OEM and trade names are : Firestone 500, BFGoodrich lifesaver.

I'm still looking to see if any repro companies make them.

[Mike M.]

Re: Tires for 63

if you want blackwalls( and they look better) you ARE NOT restricted to firestone 500 or bf goodrich lifesavers. You could get blackwall tires in any Manufacturer listed in the judging manual p 76, ie goodyear, general, silvertown, us royal or firestone delux champion. i got a set of blackwalls for one of my 63s several years ago from cooker and i think they were silvertowns.

[Dennis C.]

Re: Tires for 63

Let me reword my comment. I do not believe you will find in the 63/64 Judging Manual that the correct 1963 Firestone tire will be a Firestone 500. I believe it will be a Firestone Deluxe Champion.

[Michael R.]

Re: Tires for 63

Be careful!! Some of these repro tires will NOT fit in the tub. I purchased the Firestone Delux Champion from Coker and I have to deflate it so it will fit up in the tub. I have a name of a recap company that may shave it for me. I hear the Silvertown will fit with no problem. Just my $.02.

[Dennis C.]

Re: Tires for 63

Mike: Good .02 cents worth. You're correct.

[Boyan B.]

Re: Tires for 63

OK, I think you guys cleared it up for me a bit but I want to make sure. Blackwall AND whitewall manufacturers as per the manual are: Firestone Deluxe Champion, BFGoodrich Silvertown, US Royal, General and Goodyear.

And ONLY blackwall NYLON tires (option P91) are Firestone 500 and BFGoodrich lifesaver. Now, is the NYLON a better tire, or because they are not available no one cares anymore?

Thanks.

[Dennis C.]

Re: Tires for 63

My sincere apologies for ever getting involved with this discussion. I will remain silent on this issue from now on... Best.

[Mike L.]

Re: Tires for 63

I dont know of a repro. compay that carrys Firestone 500 tires. BECAUSE I've spent alot of money and found a set of NOS ones for my 64 fulie. If by chance you do find someone please tell us.