The 1973 Chevrolet Van Van sits in the early years of Chevrolet’s third-generation G-series, a period when full-size vans were becoming work vehicles, family haulers, and custom platforms all at once. That wide range of use shows up directly in tire fitment, because this model spans several GVWR-based G10, G20, and G30 configurations. Depending on the exact version, the van uses 14-inch, 15-inch, or 16.5-inch tires, with bias-ply sizes covering most applications and an HR78-15 radial also appearing on one G20 fitment. Tire choice often comes down to confirming the exact sub-model first, then balancing load needs, period-style appearance, and the realities of current wheel setup and road use.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 Chevrolet Van Van
The 1973 Chevrolet Van Van uses 10 different primary tire sizes, and the right one depends on the exact G10, G20, or G30 GVWR configuration. Fitment also spans three rim diameters—14-inch, 15-inch, and 16.5-inch—so confirming the van’s sub-model and actual wheel diameter is the first step before comparing construction, sidewall style, or radial-equivalent choices.
E78-14 is an alphanumeric bias-ply size in which the letter identifies the tire’s general size class, the 78 indicates its profile family, and the 14 denotes a 14-inch rim. On the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, this is a bias-ply fitment used on a 14-inch wheel, making it relevant to lighter-duty van configurations rather than the heavier 15-inch and 16.5-inch applications. Available choices include blackwall and wide whitewall versions from Coker Classic and STA, with both classic passenger-style and truck-oriented series represented. It suits owners who need to stay with the correct 14-inch fitment while deciding how traditional or utilitarian the finished look should be.
700-14 is a numeric bias-ply size, with the 700 indicating an approximate 7.00-inch nominal section width and the 14 identifying a 14-inch rim. For the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, this size belongs to specific G10 configurations and keeps the van in a traditional bias-ply construction on a 14-inch wheel. Product choices include BFGoodrich options in blackwall and narrow whitewall form within the Silvertown Classic Bias Ply line, so the main difference is visual presentation rather than a change in size format. It is a useful fitment to evaluate when the van still carries its 14-inch wheel setup and an owner wants a period-style bias-ply appearance.
F78-14 is an alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the letter marking the size class, the 78 indicating the profile family, and the 14 calling for a 14-inch rim. This 14-inch bias-ply fitment appears on certain 1973 Chevrolet Van Van G10 applications and represents a step up from the smaller E78-14 and 700-14 sizes used elsewhere in the range. A wide whitewall Coker Classic Bias Ply option is available, and this size also has modern radial equivalents for buyers considering an alternate construction path. It makes sense to focus on F78-14 after confirming the exact G10 configuration and making sure the van has retained the correct 14-inch wheels.
670-15 is a numeric bias-ply size in which 670 indicates an approximate 6.70-inch nominal section width and 15 denotes a 15-inch rim. On the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, this is one of the 15-inch G20 fitments and it opens the broadest product selection of any size used on the model. Choices span Firestone, BFGoodrich, US Royal, Coker Classic, Excelsior, Universal Vintage Tire, Goodyear, Avon, and STA, with blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall sidewall treatments across several classic bias-ply series. It is the size to study closely when a G20 owner wants the most flexibility in period-style appearance within a 15-inch bias-ply fitment.
G78-15 is an alphanumeric bias-ply size, where the G identifies the tire’s size class, 78 places it in a vintage profile family, and 15 means it fits a 15-inch rim. For the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, this size is used on G20 applications and represents a heavier 15-inch bias-ply fitment than 670-15. Product options include Coker Classic wide whitewall versions as well as an STA blackwall truck-oriented alternative, giving this size a split between restoration-style presentation and more commercial-looking service. It deserves attention when the van is a G20 and the buyer needs to balance visual style with the intended use of the vehicle.
H78-15 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with H indicating the size class, 78 identifying the profile family, and 15 specifying a 15-inch rim. This size appears on certain 1973 Chevrolet Van Van G20 configurations and sits above G78-15 within the 15-inch fitment range. Available products include Coker Classic wide whitewall choices and an STA blackwall Traxion option, so selection leans toward either a more traditional passenger-style appearance or a truck-focused look. It is a size worth evaluating carefully on heavier G20 setups where wheel diameter is already confirmed and overall tire character matters as much as basic fitment.
HR78-15 is an alphanumeric radial size, with the R indicating radial construction within the vintage size designation and the 15 identifying a 15-inch rim. On the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, this radial primary fitment appears on one G20 GVWR application, making it different from the mostly bias-ply sizing used across the rest of the model range. This size is most important for owners who are confirming whether their specific G20 configuration was equipped around a radial-format 15-inch tire rather than a bias-ply alternative. It should be treated as a configuration-specific fitment choice, not as a universal substitute for every 15-inch van application.
800-16.5 is a numeric bias-ply size, with 800 indicating an approximate 8.00-inch nominal section width and 16.5 calling for a 16.5-inch rim. This fitment belongs to 1973 Chevrolet Van Van G30 applications, moving the van into heavier-duty territory than the 14-inch G10 and 15-inch G20 sizes. Available products come from STA in blackwall form through the Super Transport and Traxion series, both aimed at truck-style service rather than decorative presentation. It is the right size to evaluate once a G30 owner confirms the van still carries 16.5-inch wheels, since that wheel diameter is not interchangeable with 16-inch hardware.
875-16.5 is a numeric bias-ply size in which 875 represents an approximate 8.75-inch nominal section width and 16.5 indicates the required rim diameter. On the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van, it appears across multiple G30 GVWR ranges and is one of the central heavy-duty van fitments in the lineup. Product choices are blackwall STA truck tires in Traxion and Transport Highway series, keeping the selection focused on utility-oriented bias-ply service rather than decorative sidewall treatments. It is a practical size to assess when a G30 needs the correct 16.5-inch fitment and the owner is prioritizing load-oriented van or truck use over a passenger-car style presentation.
950-16.5 is a numeric bias-ply size, with 950 indicating an approximate 9.50-inch nominal section width and 16.5 denoting the wheel diameter. This is the largest primary size used on the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van and it applies to the heaviest listed G30 configuration. Available options are blackwall STA Traxion and STA Super Transport tires, both built around truck-duty use, with rim-width and load figures that make wheel compatibility an important part of the selection process. It is the size to examine only after verifying that the van is the appropriate G30 GVWR version and still uses the proper 16.5-inch wheel package.
Tire fitment on the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van varies significantly by sub-model, with different G10, G20, and G30 GVWR versions using different sizes and even different rim diameters. Checking the exact sub-model matters here because the choice is not just between brands or sidewalls, but between entirely different 14-inch, 15-inch, and 16.5-inch fitments.
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1973 Chevrolet Van Van G10 (GVWR 4500)
This G10 configuration uses the E78-14 bias-ply fitment on a 14-inch wheel. Tire selection centers on keeping the correct smaller G10 sizing while choosing between a more decorative wide whitewall presentation and a more work-oriented blackwall look.
This G10 version uses either 700-14 or F78-14 bias-ply tires on 14-inch rims. The key is confirming which of those two 14-inch sizes belongs on the van before comparing bias-ply style choices or considering radial-equivalent alternatives where available.
This G10 application also falls into the 14-inch bias-ply group, using either 700-14 or F78-14. That means the tire decision starts with precise size confirmation rather than brand comparison, especially if the van has changed hands or has had wheels replaced over time.
This heavier-rated G10 still remains in the 14-inch bias-ply range, with 700-14 and F78-14 fitments tied to the sub-model. Once the exact size is confirmed, the owner can focus on appearance goals and whether to stay with a traditional bias-ply tire or evaluate a radial equivalent where one exists.
This G20 configuration moves to 15-inch bias-ply sizing, using either 670-15 or G78-15. That opens access to more substantial tire choices, so the next decision becomes whether the van is being kept in a classic passenger-style look or a more truck-oriented presentation.
This G20 sub-model is the most varied 15-inch application, using G78-15 and H78-15 bias-ply sizes as well as HR78-15 radial. Tire selection here requires careful confirmation of the van’s actual wheel and intended setup, because both size and construction can differ within this one GVWR range.
This G30 version uses 16.5-inch bias-ply tires, specifically 800-16.5 or 875-16.5. The main concern is confirming the correct 16.5-inch wheel hardware first, then choosing between truck-service tire series suited to heavier van use.
This G30 application stays with 16.5-inch bias-ply sizing in either 800-16.5 or 875-16.5. Tire choice is straightforward once the exact size is verified, since the available products focus on blackwall truck-duty service rather than multiple appearance treatments.
This G30 fitment remains in the same heavy-duty 16.5-inch range, using 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 bias-ply tires. That makes wheel-diameter confirmation especially important, because a 16.5-inch setup should be matched with the correct tire and wheel combination before road use.
This heavier G30 configuration continues with 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 bias-ply fitments. Buyers typically need to focus less on decorative style and more on selecting the correct truck-oriented series for the van’s wheel setup and intended use.
This is the largest-capacity G30 application, using either 875-16.5 or 950-16.5 bias-ply tires on 16.5-inch rims. Tire choice should begin with exact size verification, since the step into 950-16.5 also brings more wheel-compatibility and load-related considerations.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van
Several 1973 Chevrolet Van Van bias-ply sizes have radial equivalents, but the choices depend on the original size. E78-14 and 700-14 can use 185R14 as an 80-series metric radial, P195/75R14 as a 75-series P-metric radial, or P205/70R14 as a 70-series P-metric radial. F78-14 adds a 750R14 bias-look radial, while 670-15, G78-15, and H78-15 add 670R15, 710R15, and 760R15 bias-look radials alongside their metric and P-metric alternatives. Recommended rim-width ranges run from 4-6 inches on the 14-inch sizes to 6-8 inches on the larger 15-inch sizes, and wheel compatibility and clearance should be checked before conversion.
Modern Radial Equivalents
185R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (E78-14)
P195/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (E78-14)
P205/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (E78-14)
185R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (700-14)
P195/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (700-14)
P205/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (700-14)
195R14
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (F78-14)
P205/75R14
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (F78-14)
P215/70R14
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (F78-14)
750R14
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (F78-14)
195R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (670-15)
P205/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (670-15)
P215/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (670-15)
670R15
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (670-15)
205R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (G78-15)
P215/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (G78-15)
P225/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (G78-15)
710R15
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (G78-15)
215R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (H78-15)
P225/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (H78-15)
P235/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (H78-15)
760R15
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (H78-15)
Important Considerations When Replacing Bias Ply With Radial
Compare overall diameter and section width carefully to ensure proper fit.
Verify recommended rim range (6-8 in) and load needs match your vehicle specifications.
Check fender clearance, steering clearance, and stance before installation.
Consider suspension condition and intended road use when choosing equivalents.
Important Fitment Notes
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 1973 Chevrolet Van Van Tires for Sale
Available tire choices for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van range from classic bias-ply passenger-style options by Coker Classic, BFGoodrich, Firestone, Goodyear, US Royal, Excelsior, and Universal Vintage Tire to truck-oriented STA lines. Sidewall treatments include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall, with utility-focused 16.5-inch G30 sizes staying blackwall only.
Owners researching 1973 Chevrolet Van Van tires usually need to sort out the exact size by G10, G20, or G30 configuration first. The questions below cover rim fitment, bias-ply versus radial choices, sidewall and brand differences, restoration-minded selection, and the checks that matter before road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
A 1973 Chevrolet Van Van does not use one universal tire size. Depending on the exact sub-model, the primary sizes are E78-14, 700-14, F78-14, 670-15, G78-15, H78-15, HR78-15, 800-16.5, 875-16.5, and 950-16.5.
The first step is identifying whether the van is a G10, G20, or G30 and then confirming the GVWR-based configuration. That matters because fitment changes across 14-inch, 15-inch, and 16.5-inch wheels, and some versions also differ in construction. A quick check of the wheel diameter already on the vehicle helps narrow the correct group before comparing tire styles.
What size rim does a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van use?
The 1973 Chevrolet Van Van uses three different rim diameters across its range: 14-inch, 15-inch, and 16.5-inch. G10 applications stay in the 14-inch group, G20 applications move to 15-inch fitments, and G30 applications use 16.5-inch truck-style sizes.
Wheel diameter should be confirmed before selecting a tire because these sizes are tied to different parts of the van lineup and are not casually interchangeable. On older vans, wheel changes over time are common, so it helps to inspect the actual wheel stamping or measure carefully rather than relying only on what is currently mounted.
Why does the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van have more than one tire size?
The 1973 Chevrolet Van Van was offered in several G10, G20, and G30 configurations with different GVWR ratings, so tire fitment changes with the van’s intended capacity and wheel package. That is why the range includes lighter 14-inch sizes, mid-range 15-inch sizes, and heavier 16.5-inch truck applications.
That variation means the right tire is determined by the exact van configuration, not by the model name alone. It is smart to confirm the sub-model and compare the installed wheels before ordering, especially on work vans and custom vans that may have seen replacements, suspension changes, or wheel swaps over the years.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is HR78-15 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
HR78-15 is a radial tire size for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van. It appears as a 15-inch primary fitment on the G20 (GVWR 6000) configuration, while most of the other sizes used across the model range are bias-ply.
That makes HR78-15 important because it is a primary radial fitment, not simply a modern equivalent to another size. Owners of a G20 should confirm both the exact size and the actual wheel setup before changing construction, since a 15-inch van that uses HR78-15 should not be treated the same as every other 15-inch application.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to 670-15 on a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
Radial equivalents for 670-15 include 195R15 as an 80-series metric radial, P205/75R15 as a 75-series P-metric radial, P215/70R15 as a 70-series P-metric radial, and 670R15 as a bias-look radial. The recommended rim-width range for these equivalents is 5-7 inches.
Those options give a buyer several ways to approach the same original size, from a conventional metric radial to a bias-look radial that keeps a more traditional visual character. Even so, the change should be checked against the van’s wheel width, overall setup, and available clearance rather than treated as an automatic interchange.
What should I check before converting my 1973 Chevrolet Van Van from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by confirming that a true radial equivalent exists for the original bias-ply size being used. On this van, equivalents are available for E78-14, 700-14, F78-14, 670-15, G78-15, and H78-15, but that does not extend across every size in the lineup.
After that, verify wheel diameter, wheel width, and clearance at the steering, suspension, and body. It also helps to consider how the van is used, since a restoration-minded build may favor a period-style bias-ply presentation while a road-driven vehicle may lead the owner to compare radial formats more closely.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 670-15 tire for a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
Begin with the basics: 670-15 is a 15-inch bias-ply fitment used on certain G20 applications, so the van must first be confirmed as one of those configurations. From there, the main choices are brand, tire series, sidewall style, and rim-width compatibility within the available 670-15 products.
This size offers one of the broadest selections in the lineup, including blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall treatments across several classic bias-ply series. That means appearance plays a larger role here than on the truck-only 16.5-inch sizes, but wheel width and intended use should still guide the final decision.
What sidewall styles are available for 1973 Chevrolet Van Van tires?
Sidewall choices for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van include blackwall, narrow whitewall, and wide whitewall, depending on the tire size. The 14-inch and 15-inch passenger-style sizes carry the most visual variety, while the 16.5-inch G30 sizes are offered in blackwall truck-oriented form.
That makes sidewall treatment one of the easiest ways to shape the van’s overall presentation once the correct size is settled. A whitewall can create a more restoration-oriented or custom-period look, while blackwall options tend to suit commercial, utility, or understated builds more naturally.
What brands offer tires for the 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
Brands available across 1973 Chevrolet Van Van tire sizes include Coker Classic, STA, BFGoodrich, Firestone, US Royal, Universal Vintage Tire, Excelsior, Avon, and Goodyear. The mix changes by size, with the broadest brand variety appearing in 670-15 and the heavy-duty 16.5-inch sizes concentrating mainly on STA.
Brand selection is most useful after the exact size is confirmed, because not every line is offered in every fitment. Once that is settled, the buyer can compare each brand’s available sidewall style, series character, rim-width specification, and load-related details instead of choosing purely by name.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
A period-style 1973 Chevrolet Van Van usually starts with the correct primary size for the exact G10, G20, or G30 configuration, then stays within the size’s available bias-ply offerings. On 14-inch and 15-inch applications, that can include classic blackwall, narrow whitewall, or wide whitewall presentations depending on the size.
The most convincing result comes from matching the tire’s visual character to the van’s role and build style rather than chasing a one-size-fits-all answer. Owners aiming for exact originality should compare the chosen size and sidewall treatment against vehicle-specific historical references, especially on restored or customized vans.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
Tire construction changes the overall presentation of a restored 1973 Chevrolet Van Van as much as the sidewall treatment does. Bias-ply tires generally preserve the vintage sizing language and traditional look associated with most of this van’s original fitments, while radial choices can shift the visual character even when they remain close in size.
That matters most on 14-inch and 15-inch builds where appearance is part of the appeal, especially if the van carries classic trim or a custom-era style theme. A bias-look radial can help bridge that gap on certain sizes, but it should still be checked as an alternative rather than assumed to match every wheel and setup.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, altered ride height, or body modifications can change the space available for the tire and may also change the wheel width or diameter compared with the original configuration.
That is especially important on a van with multiple factory tire groups, because a changed wheel setup can blur the line between what the sub-model originally used and what is actually on the vehicle now. Checking wheel diameter, width, and clearance at full steering lock helps prevent ordering a size based only on the badge.
What should I inspect before driving a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van on new tires?
Before driving a 1973 Chevrolet Van Van on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, verify the tires are seated properly, and make sure inflation is appropriate for the tire being used. It also helps to check for interference at the fenders, suspension, and steering range.
A vintage van can hide problems that a fresh set of tires will not solve, such as worn suspension parts, bent wheels, or old valve hardware. A short local test drive followed by another visual inspection is a sensible way to catch rubbing, unusual wear, or pressure loss before the van is used for longer trips.
How should tires on a collector 1973 Chevrolet Van Van be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1973 Chevrolet Van Van should be checked regularly for pressure, cuts, bulges, cracking, uneven wear, and signs of slow air loss. Low-use vans deserve extra attention because tires can age and deteriorate even when the tread still looks serviceable.
Storage conditions matter as much as mileage on an older vehicle. Keeping the van away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires, and occasional inspections of both the tread and sidewalls are worthwhile before each drive, especially if the van spends long periods parked.
