1965 Chrysler New Yorker Tires

The 1965 Chrysler New Yorker uses two primary tire sizes: 855-14 and 885-14. Both are bias-ply fitments for 14-inch rims. Tire size depends on the exact sub-model, with the Wagon using 885-14 and the Base model associated with both 855-14 and 885-14.

That means the first step is confirming which size is already on the car and whether the wheels match that fitment. On a large collector car like the New Yorker, assuming one size fits every version can lead to appearance and clearance issues, so checking the sub-model and actual wheel setup matters before choosing a replacement.

The 1965 Chrysler New Yorker uses a 14-inch rim with both of its primary tire sizes, 855-14 and 885-14. While the tire widths differ, the rim diameter remains the same across the fitments used on this model.

Rim diameter is only part of the picture, though, because wheel width still affects whether a given tire is appropriate. A replacement should match not just the 14-inch diameter but also the wheel width and the tire size assigned to the car, especially if the vehicle has had wheels changed at some point in its life.

The 1965 Chrysler New Yorker has more than one tire size because fitment varies within the model range. The Base model is associated with both 855-14 and 885-14, while the Wagon uses 885-14. Both are correct-style bias-ply sizes for 14-inch wheels, but they are not interchangeable assumptions across every New Yorker.

That variation means the buyer decision starts with identifying the exact sub-model and verifying the car’s present wheel-and-tire setup. Since many full-size Chryslers have been maintained, restored, or modified over the years, checking what is on the vehicle now is more useful than relying only on model name alone.

For the 1965 Chrysler New Yorker, 855-14 is a primary bias-ply tire size. It uses a vintage numeric sizing format and belongs to the traditional tire construction associated with this car’s mid-1960s fitment style.

That matters because a buyer deciding on 855-14 is choosing between staying with the original-style construction or considering one of the listed radial equivalents. Bias-ply construction affects both appearance and driving feel, so the right choice depends on whether the priority is restoration-minded presentation, road-use preferences, or a careful balance of both.

Radial equivalents for 855-14 include 215R14, P225/75R14, and P235/70R14. Those represent three different radial sizing approaches: an 80-series metric radial, a 75-series P-metric radial, and a 70-series P-metric radial.

Each option gives the buyer a different sizing convention and profile family to evaluate rather than one automatic substitute. The recommended rim-width range is 5 to 7 inches, and the final check should include wheel width, tire dimensions, and available clearance so the radial alternative suits the actual vehicle configuration.

Before converting a 1965 Chrysler New Yorker from bias-ply to radial tires, start by confirming which original size the car uses and whether a true radial equivalent exists for that size. In this case, the listed equivalents apply to 855-14, so the existing wheel and tire setup needs to be verified first.

After that, check wheel width, tire-to-fender clearance, steering clearance, and the condition of the suspension and steering components. A big Chrysler can respond differently when tire construction changes, so the smartest approach is to treat the radial size as an alternative that still needs to be matched carefully to the car’s wheels and overall setup.

Start with the correct primary size for the exact car, because the 1965 Chrysler New Yorker can use either 855-14 or 885-14 depending on sub-model. Both are bias-ply fitments on 14-inch rims, so the first decision is size accuracy rather than jumping straight to brand or appearance.

After the size is confirmed, compare construction type, wheel-width compatibility, load specification, and the look you want the car to have. For owners focused on a traditional presentation, the available bias-ply whitewall choices keep the visual character in period, while 855-14 owners may also weigh a radial-equivalent path for road use.

The available sidewall style for the 1965 Chrysler New Yorker is narrow whitewall. In 855-14, that includes both 1.00-inch and 5/8-inch whitewall versions, while 885-14 is also offered with a narrow whitewall treatment.

That makes sidewall choice more of an appearance decision than a fitment decision once the correct tire size has been confirmed. A narrow whitewall suits the formal, full-size character of the car, but buyers pursuing a very specific restoration look should compare the whitewall width on the tire to the presentation they want the finished car to carry.

The available tire series for the 1965 Chrysler New Yorker is BFGoodrich Silvertown Classic Bias Ply. It is offered in the primary New Yorker sizes used here and keeps the car in a traditional bias-ply presentation.

Because the series choice is straightforward, selection comes down to picking the correct size first and then comparing the sidewall treatment and wheel specification tied to that size. On a collector Chrysler, that kind of focused comparison is often more important than chasing variety, since the tire’s visual profile plays such a large role in the finished stance.

For a period-style 1965 Chrysler New Yorker, the starting point is the correct primary bias-ply size for the exact sub-model: either 855-14 or 885-14. Staying within those vintage numeric bias-ply sizes preserves the broad-profile look and general visual character expected on a large mid-1960s Chrysler.

Once the size is settled, the appearance decision shifts to details such as narrow whitewall width. Buyers pursuing a highly exact restoration should compare the car against marque references, original photos, or build documentation, while those aiming for a restoration-oriented road car can focus on the correct size, proper stance, and a whitewall style that suits the car.

Tire construction affects a restored 1965 Chrysler New Yorker both visually and proportionally. A bias-ply tire keeps the car in its original construction type, which supports the traditional sidewall shape and period-style presentation associated with a full-size Chrysler from 1965.

Changing to a radial equivalent, where one exists, can alter the visual impression even when the tire remains close in overall category and rim diameter. That does not automatically make the choice wrong, but owners who care about restoration appearance usually start with the correct bias-ply size and then decide whether driving priorities justify a different construction.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1965 Chrysler New Yorker. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, suspension alterations, or body and fender work can all influence how an 855-14 or 885-14 tire sits in the wheel opening and how much clearance remains during steering and suspension movement.

That is especially important on a large vintage car that may have seen decades of repairs or updates. Even when the nominal tire size is correct, the actual fit should be checked against the current wheel setup, ride height, and clearance around the inner fender and steering components before the car goes back into regular road use.

Before driving a 1965 Chrysler New Yorker on new tires, inspect wheel condition, tire pressure, valve stems, lug hardware, and visible clearance around the fenders and suspension. It also helps to make sure the tires match the car’s actual wheel diameter and width and that the chosen size corresponds to the correct New Yorker configuration.

A road test should begin gently so steering response, tracking, and any rubbing can be checked before longer trips. On an older full-size Chrysler, this is also a good time to look over suspension and steering wear, since fresh tires can make existing issues more noticeable once the car is back on the road.

Collector-car tires in 855-14 or 885-14 size should be maintained with regular pressure checks, periodic visual inspection, and attention to tread and sidewall condition. Even when the car is driven only occasionally, signs such as cracking, bulges, cuts, or repeated air loss deserve prompt attention.

Storage conditions matter as much as mileage on a vehicle like a 1965 Chrysler New Yorker. Keeping the car away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve tire condition, while routine inspections before each outing reduce the chance of discovering an avoidable problem after the car is already on the road.