Can I Use a 215/75R15 on a C2

[Larry M.]

I've been reading archives and don't see any information. Most talk about the 205/75 or the 215/70. I have Coker 6.70-15 Firestones on a set of original knock off wheels and a set of American Classic 670R15 bias look tires on 1964 steel wheels. Both measure over 28 inches in diameter. I want to buy a cheap radial to make a spare. The 215/75 is about 0.85 inches more in diameter than the 215/70 and at 27.7 inches is closer to what I have. The concern would be I think that the larger diameter on a wider tire might touch the front fender on an extreme turn. Does anyone have experience with this tire size? Is the larger diameter on the wider radial tire an issue?

[Leif A.]

Re: Can I Use a 215/75R15 on a C2

Larry,
Much of this depends on the condition of your suspension. As you mentioned, the 205/75 and 215/70 are widely used with few issues...typically sharp left turns into a raised area (like a driveway) MAY cause some tire rub on the frame. I would think a 215/75 would run the risk of fender interference and, possible, damage.
You, also, make make mention of a cheap radial for a spare. None of the aforementioned tires will fit in the tire tub on a C2, if fully inflated. I run the 215/70R15 on my '67 and have the original 7.75/15 bias ply in the tub as a spare...hope to never have to use it.

[Larry M.]

Re: Can I Use a 215/75R15 on a C2

Thanks for the feedback. Thinking about the suspension movement I decided to go with the 205/75R15.....about 27.1 D and 8.1 W. I bought a Tornel (made in Mexico) for about $75 tax shipping and all on ebay. At that price it doesn't make sense to look for a used and unknown tire. My rationale is that it has only one purpose and that is to get me home.

I also have an original US Royal spare (for show) but I'm not willing to put a 60 year old tire on the car, even with a tube in it.

I have a tire machine and balancer so the $75 is nearly my total cost.