1952 Willys Arrow Series Tires

The 1952 Willys Arrow Series uses two primary tire sizes: 590-15 and 640-15. Both are vintage numeric bias-ply sizes built for 15-inch rims, and the covered 6 Cyl. sub-model is associated with both sizes rather than a single exclusive fitment.

That means the real job is confirming which size is on the car now and whether the wheels match that setup. A Willys that has been restored, modified, or fitted with different wheels over the years may not still be using its earlier size, so checking the wheel, the existing tire, and available clearance before ordering is the smart next step.

The primary tire sizes for the 1952 Willys Arrow Series are both designed for 15-inch rims. Whether the car is running 590-15 or 640-15, the wheel diameter associated with those fitments is 15 inches.

Wheel diameter is only part of the picture, though. Rim width also matters, especially if the car has replacement wheels or if a radial equivalent is being considered. Before choosing tires, confirm the actual wheel diameter stamped on the rim and compare the wheel width to the tire’s intended range so the tire shape and fitment stay appropriate.

On a 1952 Willys Arrow Series, 590-15 is a numeric bias-ply tire size. The 5.90 portion refers to the tire’s nominal section width in inches, while the 15 refers to the wheel diameter in inches.

This older sizing format is different from modern metric radial sizing, so it helps to read it in historical context rather than trying to compare it by eye alone. If the car currently wears 590-15, use that as the starting point for selecting a period-style bias-ply tire or for reviewing the specific radial equivalents tied to that size.

For the 1952 Willys Arrow Series, 590-15 is a bias-ply tire size. It belongs to the vintage numeric bias-ply system used on many postwar cars and represents one of the primary fitments associated with this model.

That matters because staying with bias-ply preserves the traditional construction and period-style presentation many owners want on a restoration-minded car. If a radial alternative is being considered instead, use only the equivalent sizes associated with 590-15 and confirm wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance before making the change.

Radial equivalents for 640-15 include 175R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P175/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, and P185/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial. These are alternative radial formats associated with the original 640-15 bias-ply size.

Each option represents a different sizing convention and profile approach, so the choice is not just about finding any 15-inch radial. The recommended rim width range for a 640-15 radial-equivalent setup is 5-6 inches, and the final decision should still account for wheel width, vehicle clearance, and how closely the owner wants to retain a vintage appearance.

Start by matching the car’s primary size to its actual radial-equivalent options, since 590-15 and 640-15 each have their own corresponding radial alternatives. Wheel diameter, rim width, and the specific equivalent size under consideration all need to line up before conversion.

A careful check should also include the car’s current clearance at the fenders and steering components, especially if the Willys has non-stock wheels, suspension work, or prior modifications. Radial conversion is best treated as a setup decision rather than a simple size swap, with both appearance goals and physical fitment verified before road use.

The first consideration is confirming whether the car is set up for 590-15 or 640-15, since both sizes are associated with the 1952 Willys Arrow Series and both are bias-ply fitments on 15-inch rims. After size, the main variables are construction preference, sidewall style, brand, and tire series.

A buyer focused on restoration appearance may lean toward a traditional bias-ply with the right blackwall or whitewall look, while a driver-oriented owner may want to review the available radial equivalents tied to the original size. Wheel width, intended road use, and the car’s present stance should all be part of the final decision.

Sidewall choices for the 1952 Willys Arrow Series include blackwall, wide whitewall, and narrow whitewall, depending on the tire size and product selected. The 590-15 range includes blackwall and wide whitewall options, while 640-15 adds a narrow whitewall choice along with blackwall and wide whitewall styles.

That sidewall choice changes the car’s appearance as much as the tire brand in many restorations. A blackwall usually gives a simpler, more restrained look, while whitewall treatments create a more dressy period-style presentation. The right selection depends on how the Willys is being finished visually and which tire size the car actually uses.

Tires for the 1952 Willys Arrow Series are available from BFGoodrich, Firestone, Avon, and Excelsior, depending on size. The 590-15 choices center on BFGoodrich and Avon, while 640-15 opens up the broader mix of BFGoodrich, Firestone, Avon, and Excelsior options.

Brand is only one part of the selection process. It makes more sense to compare each tire by the correct size, sidewall treatment, tire series, and wheel compatibility than to choose only by name. Once the car’s actual size is confirmed, those details narrow the field more effectively than brand alone.

A period-style 1952 Willys Arrow Series usually starts with the correct primary bias-ply size for the car’s wheel setup, either 590-15 or 640-15. From there, the decision moves to the visual character of the tire, including blackwall or whitewall presentation and the specific tire series available in that size.

Because both sizes are associated with this model, originality-minded owners should confirm the car’s existing setup and consult Willys-specific historical references if exact restoration detail matters. For many collector cars, the most convincing result comes from getting the size, construction, and sidewall look working together rather than focusing on one feature alone.

On a restored 1952 Willys Arrow Series, tire construction affects more than ride feel. A bias-ply tire preserves the older visual character of the sidewall and overall stance, which is often an important part of how a postwar compact looks when finished in a traditional style.

A radial equivalent can change that presentation even when the wheel diameter remains the same, so construction choice has visual consequences as well as fitment implications. Owners aiming for a restoration-oriented look usually begin by deciding whether they want a traditional bias-ply appearance or a more modern road-use approach with vintage-friendly proportions.

Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1952 Willys Arrow Series even when the tire size itself is correct on paper. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension changes, ride-height changes, or bodywork can all change how a 590-15 or 640-15 tire sits in the car.

That is especially important when considering a radial equivalent, since the car may no longer match its earlier wheel setup. A smart check includes actual wheel diameter and width, steering clearance, fender room, and the condition of the suspension components. Small changes in setup can matter on a compact early-1950s car.

Before driving a 1952 Willys Arrow Series on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter, visible damage, and secure mounting surfaces. The new tires should also be checked for proper inflation, bead seating, valve condition, and clear clearance at the fenders, steering components, and suspension through the range of motion.

A collector car deserves an extra walk-around after installation and again after the first short drive. Look for rubbing marks, uneven stance, air loss, or vibration, and recheck lug torque and tire pressure once the car has settled in. That early inspection helps catch setup issues before they turn into road-use problems.

Collector-car tires on a 1952 Willys Arrow Series should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspection, and sensible storage habits. Whether the car wears 590-15 or 640-15, look for cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven wear, and slow air loss, especially if the Willys is driven only occasionally.

Long idle periods can age tires without adding many miles, so maintenance is about condition as much as tread depth. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the rubber, and periodic inspection of alignment and suspension condition supports better wear and steadier road manners.