Tyre sizes

Little Jo · #1 04-12-10, 02:46

Hi All

As a relatively new member to the MLU Forum, ( I joined in July 2010 ) And currently restoring a 1942 MB Willys Jeep, something I have never attempted before in the past. I am thouroughly enjoying the project thanks to great advice and assistance I have received from members of the MLU forum.

I now have another question I seek an answer too. That is "Tyre Sizes" that can used on WWII Jeep combat rims. I had previously asked you guys for advice regarding whether to stay with my original Jeep rims or go to an alternative, like Suzuki Sierra Rims. The advice I received from MLU members, prompted me to happily decide to stay with the originals WWII Jeep Rims as that is how I wish to show off my restored Jeep.

Obtaining the correct Bar Tread tyres are a problem, dealers appear to have a shortage of 6.00 x 16 Bar Tread Tyres, claiming if they can get them they are expensive, because the 6.00 x 16 Bar Tread Tyre is now classed a "Vintage Tyre", difficult to obtain and Very expensive.

I have been told that the Army SWB Seies II Land Rover has a Bar Tread Tyre, 7.00 x 16 ( 205 x 16 ) and there are other off road 205 x 16 readily available and cheaper, could this be an alternative I could look at.

Have any of the MLU members used larger sized tyres other than 6.00 x 16 on their WWII Jeep with any success. Would this be an option for me.

Other than Tyres my restoration project is coming along nicely and I have attached photos showing my current stage of restoration, I hope to start the engine in about a week. I will be taking my finished project to Corowa 2010.

Cheers

Little Jo

Richard Coutts-Smith · #2 04-12-10, 03:10

If you are going to keep the combat rims so it looks right, you would be shooting yourself in the foot to use anything but the correct tyre. They are available, even over E-bay at $140 including delivery:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-Tyre-4x4-...item2eb1ace110

Maybe you need a keener tyre man? All the Jeep guys over here seem to be able to get them, I would bet that Marathon Spares have a container load as well.

Problem as I see it is using anything taller will affect your gearing, and you only have a 3 speed box and a standard engine.
Thats my 2 cents worth....
Rich.

Lynn Eades · #3 04-12-10, 10:19

The early MB's and GPW's, came with 600 x 16's. Then later on they changed to 6.50 x 16. These being slightly bigger in diameter, will give you a slightly better road speed, if that helps.

Ryan · #4 04-12-10, 11:35

I was going to suggest ebay too as there had/ or is some tyres on there at the moment for ww2 jeeps.
Great looking jeep by the way, impressive work.
ryan

Little Jo · #5 05-12-10, 01:08

Hi All

Thank you for your replies and advice. Very much appreciated. That is what I have come to like from MLU members, everyone is ready to help a newcomer.

RICHARD - Thank you for the e-bay site, I will follow up with them. I did contact a supplier in NSW who asdvised he could not source into SA, I did not even get a price from him. Local suppliers in SA have quoted priced around $225.00 each plus tubes and gators.

LYNN - I did not know our Jeeps tyre sizes were increased, That is what I like about the MLU I have learned so much from members.

RYAN - Yes mate I am very p[leased with my Jeep results so far and can't wait to start driving it. But Iam at a stage where I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and must stay focused and finish the project properly. As you can see I am going WWII Dessert colours and fitout.

Thanks again guys for your help.

Cheers

Little Jo

Blackpowder44 (RIP) · #6 05-12-10, 10:09

great work on the jeep so far, because you have done it as a desert jeep do not forget thet the bonnet should have the RAF roundell and not the invasion star. John.