16.5 vs 16 vs 15" WHEELS-C20

[frenchy51]

I have a 1971 C20 Custom Camper that needs new tires. It currently has 16.5 wheels on it that I assume are stock(6-bolt). I've been told these are dangerous due to no bead and to switch to 16". In my research, I'm finding it's harder to find used caps etc. for 16" over 15" (like the C10's have). My question is what is the advantage to run 16" wheels on my C20 instead of 15"? Maybe 15" don't come in the 6" bolt pattern??? Merry Christmas and thanks in advance for any insights.

[Benny-]

On a C20 I'd go with 16's. The reason being you will have many more options for tires with load ratings appropriate for a 3/4 ton, and more tire selection in general. IMO you want at least a C if not D or E load rating. Treadwright.com (not endorsing) has more options for remolded tires in 16 inch size if that's route you're wanting to go.

You can find wheels in any diameter 15"-20"+ with the 6-lug pattern you need.

[special-K]

The same hubcap goes on any diameter 6-lug wheel (and on 5-lugs).

Do you have 6 or 8-lugs? A C/20 should have 8. By your text I gather you have 6-lug wheels and smaller (C/10) hubcaps

[frenchy51]

Originally Posted by special-K

The same hubcap goes on any diameter 6-lug wheel (and on 5-lugs).

Do you have 6 or 8-lugs? A C/20 should have 8. By your text I gather you have 6-lug wheels and smaller (C/10) hubcaps

My mistake, you're right, I just pulled a cap and they are 8 LUG-not 6 lug...

[cypressbog]

Then go with 16" rims. Better tire selection and your caps will fit

[Stocker]

Gotta get this out of the way -- 16.5 wheels are not "dangerous due to no bead" but they are getting harder to find tires for. Since 15" wheels probably will not clear your front calipers, 16s are probably your best choice.

[DarkFlounder]

My K2500 had 16.5s, and it was impossible to find tires. So, I got the steel 8lug 16x10 from WheelVintiques. Looks great, and fits the stock caps.

[davepl]

I think, actually HOPE, you're wrong about the dangerous part. I think you're thinking of split rims that clamp, rather than seat, the tire.

The 16.5s are just an old size. My truck came with a new set of them so I plan to use them when running the factory wheels.

You can buy tires from 1920s molds in the back of most magazines, and you'll be able to find 16.5s for many many years or decades yet, just have to look. I wouldn't invest in NEW 16.5 wheels unless stock was a priority.

[special-K]

The bead design used on 16.5s is different from what you see today called safety bead. The problem is when they are low on pressure the bead can break easily. Just don't drive with tires so low the sidewalls are bulged and squatted (like 20#)