The 1947 Hudson Commodore came to market just after World War II, when buyers wanted full-size comfort, substantial road manners, and updated styling without giving up the traditional feel of a big American sedan. That makes tire choice especially important on a car like this, because the stance and ride character are closely tied to its original bias-ply fitment. The 1947 Hudson Commodore uses 6.50-15 and 700-15 bias-ply tires on 15-inch rims, with size variation depending on engine configuration. Available choices include blackwall and wide whitewall styles, along with classic passenger and more utility-oriented series, so the right selection depends on whether the goal is restoration appearance, road use, or both.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1947 Hudson Commodore
Two primary tire sizes apply to the 1947 Hudson Commodore, and the first step is confirming the exact sub-model before choosing a tire. Both sizes are bias-ply designs for 15-inch rims, but they are not used across every Commodore configuration. Once the sub-model is confirmed, the real decision shifts to overall appearance, period-style presentation, and whether a passenger-car or more utility-oriented tire series makes sense for the way the car is used.
In the size code 6.50-15, the 6.50 designates a nominal section width of about 6.5 inches, while 15 identifies the wheel diameter in inches. This is a bias-ply tire, which matches the traditional construction style used on the 1947 Hudson Commodore and helps preserve an authentic pre-radial driving character. On this vehicle, it is the more widely shared fitment across the covered sub-models. It is the size to focus on when the goal is maintaining the Commodore's original-type proportions and confirming fitment around a standard 15-inch wheel setup.
The 700-15 size uses an older numeric bias-ply format, with 7.00 indicating a nominal section width of roughly 7.0 inches and 15 indicating the rim diameter. This size keeps the period-correct bias-ply construction, but it opens up a wider assortment of available products, including Firestone, BFGoodrich, and STA choices. Sidewall presentation ranges from blackwall to wide whitewall, and tire series include classic bias-ply passenger styles as well as more utility-oriented patterns. It is worth close attention when selecting tires for a Commodore configuration that calls for this wider primary size.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1947 Hudson Commodore because the covered configurations do not all share the same tire size. The 6-cylinder cars can use either of the two primary sizes, while the 8-cylinder fitment stays with one, so confirming the exact sub-model avoids choosing the wrong starting point.
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1947 Hudson Commodore 6 Cyl.
The 1947 Hudson Commodore 6 Cyl. uses bias-ply tires on 15-inch rims and is the sub-model with the broader fitment range. That makes tire selection less about finding any size that fits the model name and more about deciding which of the accepted period-style sizes best matches the wheel setup and appearance being preserved.
The 1947 Hudson Commodore 8 Cyl. stays with a single primary bias-ply tire size, which makes fitment more straightforward once the car is correctly identified. The focus then shifts to selecting the right visual treatment and verifying that the wheel and overall chassis setup still match a stock-style 15-inch application.
The tire sizes listed on this page assume factory-standard vehicle configuration. The following modifications may affect tire fitment and are not reflected in this guide:
Suspension changes (lowering, lift kits, spring replacements)
Body alterations (fender modifications, custom bodywork)
If your vehicle has been modified from factory specifications, verify tire clearance before purchase.
Best 1947 Hudson Commodore Tires for Sale
Available 700-15 choices span Firestone, BFGoodrich, and STA, with both classic passenger-car and more utility-oriented bias-ply series. Buyers can compare blackwall and wide whitewall presentation, along with differences in rim-width specification, load ratings where stated, and overall tire character.
Common 1947 Hudson Commodore tire questions usually center on the difference between 6.50-15 and 700-15, which sub-model uses which size, and how to choose between available bias-ply styles for restoration appearance and road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1947 Hudson Commodore?
The 1947 Hudson Commodore uses two primary bias-ply tire sizes: 6.50-15 and 700-15. Both sizes mount on 15-inch rims, but they are not used the same way across every covered sub-model. The Commodore 6 Cyl. can use either 6.50-15 or 700-15, while the Commodore 8 Cyl. uses 6.50-15.
That means the first step is confirming the exact sub-model before choosing a tire. Once that is settled, check the actual wheel setup on the car, especially if the vehicle has been restored, stored for years, or fitted with replacement wheels at some point. A correct size match starts with both the sub-model and the wheel.
What size rim does a 1947 Hudson Commodore use?
The 1947 Hudson Commodore uses a 15-inch rim with its primary tire fitments. Both 6.50-15 and 700-15 are 15-inch bias-ply sizes, so the wheel diameter stays the same even though the tire sizes differ. That makes rim diameter straightforward, but tire size selection still depends on the specific Commodore configuration.
Verifying wheel diameter is still worth doing on an older car, especially if it has changed hands or received replacement wheels over the years. The stamped size on the wheel, the current tire markings, and the vehicle's sub-model should all point in the same direction. Diameter is only one part of fitment, so wheel width and clearance still matter.
Do all 1947 Hudson Commodore sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1947 Hudson Commodore does not use one universal tire size across the covered sub-models. The Commodore 6 Cyl. can use 6.50-15 or 700-15, while the Commodore 8 Cyl. uses 6.50-15. All of those primary fitments are bias-ply tires for 15-inch rims, but the size itself is not identical across the range.
That difference matters because an owner should not assume that every 1947 Commodore takes the wider 700-15. Start by identifying the exact sub-model, then confirm what is currently on the car and whether the wheels appear original in size. That approach helps avoid selecting a tire based only on make and model name without checking the configuration.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 700-15 tire for a 1947 Hudson Commodore?
A 700-15 tire for a 1947 Hudson Commodore should first match the correct sub-model and wheel setup, since this size is not shared by every covered Commodore configuration. From there, the main comparisons are bias-ply series, sidewall presentation, rim-width compatibility where stated, and whether the tire is built more for classic passenger appearance or a more utility-oriented purpose.
Wide whitewall and blackwall styles create very different visual results on a postwar sedan, so appearance is a major part of the decision. It also helps to compare load figures and tire attributes when they are stated, especially on a large car. The right choice depends on whether the priority is restoration-style presentation, general road use, or a more specialized look.
What sidewall styles are available for 1947 Hudson Commodore tires?
For the 1947 Hudson Commodore, available 700-15 products include blackwall and wide whitewall sidewall styles. Those choices keep the same primary tire size but change the visual character of the car significantly. A blackwall tends to give a plainer, more utilitarian presentation, while a wide whitewall creates a more formal and restoration-oriented look.
Sidewall style should be chosen with the car's finish, trim level, and intended presentation in mind rather than as a performance decision. On a collector car from this era, the sidewall is a major part of the overall stance. It is also wise to make sure the chosen tire still matches the correct size and wheel requirements instead of selecting by appearance alone.
What brands offer tires for the 1947 Hudson Commodore?
Available 700-15 tires for the 1947 Hudson Commodore come from Firestone, BFGoodrich, and STA. Those brand choices span classic bias-ply passenger designs as well as more utility-oriented series, so the brand list also reflects differences in tire character, sidewall treatment, and intended look rather than just a change in name on the sidewall.
Choosing among brands is most useful when it is tied to a specific goal. One owner may want a traditional wide whitewall for a restoration-minded presentation, while another may want a blackwall tire with a more specialized tread style. Start with the correct size, then compare brand offerings by series, appearance, and wheel compatibility rather than by brand reputation alone.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1947 Hudson Commodore?
A period-style 1947 Hudson Commodore tire choice starts with the correct primary size for the exact sub-model, which means 6.50-15 or 700-15 in bias-ply form. From there, the look of the tire becomes the next major decision. On 700-15, both blackwall and wide whitewall options are available, giving the car either a simpler road-going look or a more formal postwar presentation.
Bias-ply construction helps preserve the traditional stance and visual character expected on a sedan of this era. For buyers focused on authenticity, the safest approach is to confirm the sub-model and then compare period photographs, marque references, or restoration documentation before settling on a sidewall treatment. Appearance details matter as much as size on a Hudson from 1947.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1947 Hudson Commodore restoration?
Correct tire fitment matters a great deal on a 1947 Hudson Commodore restoration because tire size and construction influence stance, side profile, and the overall impression of the car. A bias-ply tire in the proper 15-inch fitment keeps the vehicle visually aligned with its postwar design language, while an incorrect size can change the look even before the car moves.
Fitment also affects practical restoration results. A tire that is too wide, mismatched to the wheel, or selected without confirming the right sub-model can create avoidable clearance or appearance issues. Restorers usually get the best result by treating tire choice as part of the exterior presentation, not as an afterthought once paint, trim, and wheel finish are already complete.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1947 Hudson Commodore?
Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1947 Hudson Commodore even when the tire size itself is correct for the model. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered ride height, replacement suspension parts, or body repairs can all influence how a 6.50-15 or 700-15 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much clearance remains at steering and full suspension movement.
That is why older fitment guides should be treated as a starting point, not a substitute for inspecting the actual car. Measure the installed wheel, confirm diameter and width, and check for rubbing marks or uneven spacing before mounting new tires. A modified Hudson can still use a period-size tire, but the vehicle's present configuration needs to be verified first.
What should I inspect before driving a 1947 Hudson Commodore on new tires?
Before driving a 1947 Hudson Commodore on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct size and condition, make sure the tires are seated properly, and confirm that inflation is appropriate for the tire being used. It also helps to look over suspension and steering components, since looseness or worn parts can affect how a newly mounted bias-ply tire behaves on the road.
A short slow-speed check is a smart next step. Listen for rubbing, feel for pull or vibration, and recheck air pressure after the first drive. On a collector car that may have sat for long periods, tire installation is also a good time to inspect brake condition, wheel hardware, and any signs of fluid leaks that could affect safe road use.
How should 6.50-15 tires on a collector 1947 Hudson Commodore be maintained?
6.50-15 tires on a collector 1947 Hudson Commodore should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and careful storage habits. Look for sidewall cracking, cuts, bulges, uneven wear, and signs of air loss even if the car is driven only occasionally. Collector vehicles often age their tires through time and storage conditions as much as through actual mileage.
Keeping the Hudson in a clean, dry space away from prolonged sunlight and ozone sources helps preserve the tires between drives. It is also worth moving the car periodically or using good storage practices to avoid long static loading in one position. Every road season should start with a fresh inspection rather than assuming low mileage means the tires are still road-ready.
