I've read all the threads about putting wider tires and rims on baby birds, and after much contemplation decided to stay stock. When I finally got around to taking the tires of my '55 bird, I was surprised to find it had 30 year old 215/65R15's on the stock 5" wide wheels! Yes, there wasn't much clearance at the upper ball joint, but it didn't rub! The skirts fit in back, with about 3/4" clearance, no signs of rubbing on any sidewall! Pics posted here.



I'm getting ready to buy wide whites for the stock wheels, and I'm wondering if there is any disadvantage in going back to 215/65's, as opposed to the normally recommended 205/75's. I know they are a little smaller diameter, and about 3/4" wider tread, but I'm concerned about driving them hard on such a narrow rim. Will the tire squirm in the corners, or risk breaking a bead and loosing air?



While the wheels are off, I'm installing drop'n'stop spindles (1.5" drop) with granada disks. I won't have any side clearance issues in front, and a smaller tire would be less likely to rub in the fender.



Let me know what you think. Cheers!