Tire ID help,, non DOT?

[Michael K.]

Hello all,
I have acquired 4 tires on original wheels from a 1954 Chrysler. I have looked very carefully and I don't see anything reading DOT. 2 are Good Year Super Cushion Deluxe 7.60 -15 4 ply inner tube. Reading MADE in USA, Replaces 6.50 15, USE 7.0 -15 Tube There is a symbol of a flag with an X on the field. Serial number: SU4L0162 There is a lead balance weight stamped HUNTER.

The other two are tube Kelly Spring Field Prestige 7.60 15, Made in USA. Serial numbers: 3S 5336 and M7DC417. On each side of where it reads the size 7.60 15 there are round circles without symbols or letters.

They have very little tread wear. Sidewalls have cracks but are not rotted.

So, are these original tires dating before DOT approval? Were they exclusive to Chrysler? Do they score higher than DOT tires, thus of value?
Thanks, Michael

[Joe L.]

Re: Tire ID help,, non DOT?

Hello all,
I have acquired 4 tires on original wheels from a 1954 Chrysler. I have looked very carefully and I don't see anything reading DOT. 2 are Good Year Super Cushion Deluxe 7.60 -15 4 ply inner tube. Reading MADE in USA, Replaces 6.50 15, USE 7.0 -15 Tube There is a symbol of a flag with an X on the field. Serial number: SU4L0162 There is a lead balance weight stamped HUNTER.

The other two are tube Kelly Spring Field Prestige 7.60 15, Made in USA. Serial numbers: 3S 5336 and M7DC417. On each side of where it reads the size 7.60 15 there are round circles without symbols or letters.

They have very little tread wear. Sidewalls have cracks but are not rotted.

So, are these original tires dating before DOT approval? Were they exclusive to Chrysler? Do they score higher than DOT tires, thus of value?
Thanks, Michael

Michael----

There's good news and bad news here. First, the good news: they are likely tires that pre-date DOT requirements and embossments. That's about all the good news.

Now, the bad news: while Goodyear tires were used on Corvettes for many years, the model and size you mentioned were never used. So, from a restoration potential for a Corvette, they're about as close to zero as one could get. The lack of DOT embossment is about all they have going for them and, by itself, is just about worthless.

Kelly-Springfield tires were never originally used on any Corvette and, as I mentioned, the size you have was never originally used on any Corvette. So, once again, these would have zero value for Corvette restoration.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but how it is is how it is.

[Michael K.]

Re: Tire ID help,, non DOT?

Thanks Joe, I appreciate it.