1952 Ford Customline Tires

The 1952 Ford Customline uses a 670-15 tire size. This is a numeric bias-ply size mounted on a 15-inch rim, and it is the primary fitment for the covered Customline 6- and 8-cylinder application. For most owners, the basic fitment question is straightforward because there is one primary size rather than several different factory-style sizes to sort through.

Once size is confirmed, the next step is choosing the type of 670-15 tire that suits the car. Bias-ply options are available in blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall styles, and there are also radial-equivalent alternatives to compare. If the car has aftermarket wheels or prior modifications, checking actual wheel width and clearance before ordering remains important.

The primary tire fitment for a 1952 Ford Customline is built around a 15-inch rim diameter. That rim diameter matches the 670-15 tire size, where the final number in the size code refers to the wheel diameter. Keeping that 15-inch relationship in mind is essential whether the goal is a traditional bias-ply replacement or a radial-equivalent alternative.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, so wheel width should still be checked on the car itself. Some 670-15 products carry different recommended rim-width ranges, and the radial equivalents for this size call for a 5- to 7-inch rim-width range. A Customline with replacement wheels should always be measured before changing tire type.

A 670-15 is a vintage numeric bias-ply tire size. The 6.70 portion refers to the tire's nominal section width in inches, while 15 refers to the wheel diameter in inches. That sizing format was common on American cars of this era, so it looks different from later metric and alphanumeric tire markings even though it serves the same basic fitment purpose.

For a 1952 Ford Customline, understanding that code helps separate the original-style fitment from modern radial alternatives such as 195R15 or P205/75R15. It also keeps the focus on choosing the right construction and sidewall treatment within the proper size family. If the car still carries older tires, checking the actual wheel and tire markings is a smart confirmation step.

For the 1952 Ford Customline, 670-15 is the primary bias-ply tire size. That means the traditional fitment keeps the car in the same construction type associated with the period, rather than using a modern radial as the starting point. Buyers looking for an original-style tire presentation usually begin with a 670-15 bias-ply option on the correct 15-inch rim diameter.

Construction choice affects more than appearance, so it is worth deciding early whether the car is being set up for restoration-style presentation or for a radial conversion. A change away from bias-ply should prompt a closer look at wheel width, overall tire dimensions, and vehicle clearance. The right answer depends on the condition of the wheels and how the Customline will be driven.

Radial equivalents for 670-15 include 195R15, P205/75R15, P215/70R15, and 670R15. In that group, 195R15 is the 80-series metric radial equivalent, P205/75R15 is the 75-series P-metric radial, P215/70R15 is the 70-series P-metric radial, and 670R15 is the bias-look radial option. Each one gives a different modern sizing format to compare against the original bias-ply size.

Those sizes should be treated as alternatives to evaluate, not automatic replacements. The recommended rim-width range for these radial equivalents is 5 to 7 inches, so wheel width matters before making a conversion. It is also wise to check clearance at the front suspension, fenders, and steering stops, especially if the Customline no longer has its original wheel and suspension setup.

A 670R15 bias-look radial is available as a radial equivalent for the 1952 Ford Customline's original 670-15 size. That makes it a useful option for owners who want a more traditional visual presentation than a modern P-metric radial typically provides, while still considering a radial-style construction alternative instead of staying with a full bias-ply tire.

Even with the familiar look, it should still be approached as a conversion choice rather than a guaranteed interchange. Wheel width, tire dimensions, and body or steering clearance all deserve confirmation before installation. This option often appeals to owners balancing road manners with vintage appearance, but the car's actual wheel setup should guide the final decision.

Start with the correct 670-15 size and the fact that the original-style fitment is bias-ply on a 15-inch rim. From there, the real choice is between blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall presentations, along with the different brands and classic tire series offered in that size. Those differences affect the car's visual character much more than the size itself does.

Wheel width is worth checking before narrowing the choices, because some 670-15 products carry different recommended rim-width ranges. It also helps to think about the car's purpose. A restoration-oriented sedan may call for a different sidewall treatment than a driver that sees regular road miles, and a modified Customline should always have actual wheel dimensions confirmed.

The 1952 Ford Customline's 670-15 size is available in blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall configurations. That gives owners a broad range of period-style appearance options, from a restrained black sidewall to the bright, more formal whitewall look commonly associated with early 1950s American cars. The choice is mostly about presentation rather than changing the base fitment size.

A blackwall tire usually delivers the simplest, most understated look, while narrow and wide whitewalls move the car in a more dressy, restoration-oriented direction. Since several whitewall widths are available within 670-15, it helps to match the sidewall treatment to the car's trim level, wheel covers, and desired visual balance. That approach usually leads to a more satisfying finished stance.

Available 670-15 tires for the 1952 Ford Customline come from Firestone, US Royal, Coker Classic, Universal Vintage Tire, BFGoodrich, Excelsior, Avon, Goodyear, and STA. They appear across several tire series, including Firestone Classic Bias Ply, US Royal Classic Bias Ply, Silvertown Classic Bias Ply, Universal Classic Bias Ply, and multiple Goodyear lines, among others.

That variety gives buyers room to compare period-style branding, sidewall treatment, rim-width specifications, and load figures where stated. The best way to narrow the field is to decide first whether the car calls for blackwall, narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, or a more specialty presentation. Once that is settled, comparing individual product specifications becomes much more manageable.

A period-style 1952 Ford Customline usually starts with the original 670-15 bias-ply size on a 15-inch rim. That keeps the car in the traditional sizing and construction family associated with early 1950s full-size Ford fitment. From there, the appearance decision comes down to sidewall treatment and brand presentation, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall options all available.

The right choice depends on how the car is being presented rather than on one universal answer. Some restorations look best with a restrained blackwall, while others need the visual lift of a whitewall to match trim and stance. If exact originality matters, period photographs, marque references, and vehicle-specific historical documentation are the best way to confirm the most appropriate appearance.

Tire construction changes the look of a restored 1952 Ford Customline because a bias-ply tire preserves the traditional profile and period-style presentation most owners associate with an early 1950s sedan. A modern radial equivalent can alter the visual impression even when the overall fitment remains in the same general size family. That makes construction an appearance decision as well as a functional one.

Owners pursuing a restoration-oriented result often stay with 670-15 bias-ply tires and then fine-tune the look through blackwall or whitewall selection. A bias-look radial can help bridge the gap for someone wanting a more vintage presentation than a standard metric radial gives. Even so, the car's wheels and stance should be checked carefully before treating construction change as purely cosmetic.

Modifications can absolutely affect tire fitment on a 1952 Ford Customline, even when the intended size remains 670-15 or one of its radial equivalents. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered offset, suspension work, lowering, or body repairs can all influence how much space the tire has at the fender, steering components, and suspension points during normal driving.

That is why an older car should be checked as it sits today rather than assumed to match original dimensions. Measuring wheel diameter and width is the first step, followed by a visual inspection of inner and outer clearance. Turning the front wheels lock to lock and checking suspension travel can reveal problems before a new set of tires goes into service.

Before driving a 1952 Ford Customline on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, confirm that rim diameter and width match the intended tire, and look over the suspension and steering for obvious wear. Tire pressure should be set correctly for the tire being used, and each tire should be checked for proper seating, visible damage, and any signs of air loss after installation.

A collector car that has been parked for long periods deserves extra attention beyond the tires alone. Brake condition, wheel bearings, alignment, and the condition of old rubber suspension parts can all affect how the car tracks on fresh tires. A cautious short drive followed by another inspection is a smart way to catch rubbing, pull, or pressure loss early.

670-15 tires on a collector 1952 Ford Customline should be inspected regularly for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss, especially if the car is driven infrequently. Maintaining proper inflation and keeping the car on clean, dry surfaces both help preserve tire condition. Low-mileage collector use can hide age-related deterioration that is easy to miss at a casual glance.

Storage habits matter as much as mileage on an older vehicle. Keeping the Customline away from prolonged sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and ozone sources can help slow sidewall aging. It also helps to move the car periodically or use appropriate storage practices so the tires are not left carrying weight in one position for extended periods.