1937 Buick 40 Series Tires

The 1937 Buick 40 Series uses a 650-16 tire size. This is a vintage numeric bias-ply size mounted on a 16-inch rim, and it is the primary fitment for the covered vehicle configuration.

That makes the first step fairly simple, since the main fitment question is not choosing among several primary sizes. The next step is confirming that the wheels on the car are still the correct 16-inch diameter and that the tire’s rim-width specification matches the actual wheel, especially if the Buick has been stored for years or fitted with replacement wheels at some point.

The 1937 Buick 40 Series uses a 16-inch rim with its 650-16 tire fitment. Product offerings in this size commonly reference rim widths such as 4.50 to 5.00 inches, with some variation depending on the tire series.

Rim diameter needs to be correct before anything else, because a 16-inch tire cannot be used on a different wheel diameter. After that, measure the wheel width and compare it with the specifications of the tire being considered, since some 650-16 products are aimed at traditional passenger-car use while others are more utility or truck oriented.

Yes. The covered 1937 Buick 40 Series 8 Cyl. uses the same 650-16 bias-ply tire size as the model core. There is no separate primary size change within the sub-model information for this vehicle.

That consistency simplifies selection, because the decision shifts from sub-model differences to the type of 650-16 tire that suits the car’s purpose. A Buick being restored to a period-style appearance may call for a wide whitewall presentation, while a driver-focused car may lean toward a blackwall or a different tread style, provided the wheel dimensions remain compatible.

Start with the correct 650-16 size and confirm that the tire is appropriate for a 16-inch wheel of the proper width. Since the 1937 Buick 40 Series uses a traditional bias-ply fitment, the biggest selection factors are sidewall style, tire series, intended use, and whether the wheel matches the tire’s rim-width specification.

A wide whitewall can strongly shape the car’s prewar presentation, while a blackwall keeps the look more restrained. It also helps to compare load figures where they are stated, such as 1580 at 32 psi on several passenger-style options or 1610 at 45 psi on some utility-oriented designs, so the tire choice matches how the Buick will actually be used.

The 1937 Buick 40 Series has 650-16 tire options in both blackwall and wide whitewall styles. That gives the car two very different visual directions even while staying within the same primary size and traditional bias-ply construction.

Sidewall choice matters most when the Buick is being restored or presented with strong period character in mind. A wide whitewall creates a more formal prewar appearance, while a blackwall is more understated and utilitarian. The practical step is to decide how the car will be shown and driven, then compare the available series in that sidewall style with the correct wheel dimensions.

The 650-16 size for the 1937 Buick 40 Series is available from BFGoodrich, Coker Classic, Firestone, Garfield, Excelsior, Lester, Goodyear, STA, and Tornel. Those brands appear across several different bias-ply tire series and sidewall treatments.

Brand choice is only one part of the decision. It is more useful to compare each tire by its sidewall style, whether it follows a passenger-car or more utility-style tread pattern, and the wheel-width range tied to that product. That approach keeps the focus on how the tire suits the Buick’s appearance and wheel setup rather than treating one brand as automatically right.

A period-style 1937 Buick 40 Series starts with the correct 650-16 bias-ply size. From there, the most important visual choice is usually between a blackwall tire and a wide whitewall tire, since both are available in this size and each creates a very different prewar presentation.

For many restorations, tire appearance is just as important as fitment because the sidewall and profile influence the car’s stance and overall character. Exact originality can vary by body style, trim, and historical documentation, so buyers focused on a highly authentic restoration should compare the available tire style with marque references, period photos, and vehicle-specific records before making a final selection.

Yes, correct tire fitment matters a great deal on a 1937 Buick 40 Series restoration. The proper 650-16 size helps preserve the car’s prewar proportions, wheel opening fill, and the tall sidewall look that suits Buick styling from this era.

Even when the overall appearance is the main goal, the wheel still needs to match the selected tire’s rim-width requirements. A restoration-minded buyer should also consider whether the car is being built as a show presentation or a road car, because that can influence the choice between blackwall and wide whitewall tires and between passenger-style and more utility-oriented tread designs.

Yes. Even though the 1937 Buick 40 Series uses a straightforward 650-16 primary size, fitment can change if the car has replacement wheels, altered ride height, brake conversions, or other suspension or body modifications. A tire that is correct in size still needs a compatible wheel and adequate clearance on the actual car.

The practical checks are wheel diameter, wheel width, and the available space at the fenders and steering components. A Buick that has remained stock is simpler to evaluate, but any modified example should be measured carefully before purchase. That is especially important on a prewar car, where small changes in stance or wheel setup can noticeably affect clearance and appearance.

Before road use, inspect the wheels for rust, damage, and proper bead-seat condition, then confirm that the new 650-16 tires are mounted on the correct 16-inch rims. It is also wise to check valve stems, balance, inflation, and whether the tires clear suspension and body components through the full steering range.

A prewar Buick may have spent long periods parked, so the surrounding hardware deserves attention too. Look over wheel bearings, brake function, steering play, shocks, and suspension bushings before putting road miles on the car. Tires perform best when the rest of the chassis is in sound condition, and that broader inspection can prevent handling or wear issues from being blamed on the tires.

Collector-car 650-16 tires should be kept at the proper inflation for their intended use, inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and slow air loss, and stored away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources. That matters even on a Buick that is driven only occasionally.

Low annual mileage does not eliminate tire aging, so condition should be checked by time as well as tread depth. Moving the car periodically can help reduce long-term flat spotting, and clean wheels with proper inflation help the tire maintain its shape. A short pre-drive walkaround before each outing is a smart habit on any prewar car that spends much of its life parked.