!946 Ford Jailbar Tyres

[FlatheadEric]

I have a stock 1946 jailbar that has been hybernating for the past 35 years. The 6.50x16 tyres on the stock 4.5 inch rims are shot and I want to replace them and get the truck rolling again.
What size radial tyre would safely fit the 4.5 inch rim and look similar to the old 6.50x16 aspect?
Is 205/85R16 an option or is it too wide for the rim?

 

[mercman from oz]

Eric, Your 1946 Jail Bar Pickup has lots of Patina. Love it.

 

[GB SISSON]

I have a 1/2 ton jailbar and I run 215 85r 16s on factory wheels. They fit just right and the tires don't look pinched. Been about 4 years now and I'm running them tubeless without ever adding any air during that time. I removed a set of 6.50 x 16 bias plys that were a year old and these radials made a huge difference in steering and handling. Nice pickup btw!

 

[FlatheadEric]

Thanks Mercman, original paint that has seen a lot of life.

 

[FlatheadEric]

Thanks GB, that makes me comfortable about buying a set of 205/85R16. I was getting conflicting opinions and was hoping for someone to step up with a real life experience.