Tire tread combination

[wildecat06]

Greetings,

I'm performing a restoration of a 1949 Chevy 3/4 ton and I'm currently working on wheels. I've tried diligently to keep the project as close to a true stock restoration as possible and many times have been able to successfully preserve the original components.

I've opted to keep the original 17" 2 piece rims and cover them with 700-17s or 750-17s. I have a few options through Coker and Universal with a variety of tread applications. The rubber I pulled off these rims was mixed between traction patterns and highway patterns, but the rear wheels were discernibly traction tires (for good reason). I've been looking at photos online as well as advertisement diagrams from the era and notice that on restorations and preservations as well as the odd ad, traction tires are used in the rear and a less aggressive lug style is used up front.

I wonder if there is some merit in mimicking this trend in my project.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

[tntfarm]

I was wondering if anyone could tell me what a 1946 Chevy 1/2 ton pickup originally came out with for tires? Did they have traction type on the rear or just smooth as front? Trying to restore to original. Thanks. Tim

[800ckc]

Tim:

The 1946 Chevy ½ ton came with all 4 tires the same. The size is: 6.00 x 16 with the option of 6.50 x 16.

Jim Carter