The 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van sits in the era when full-size domestic vans were expected to handle real work, from commercial hauling to camper conversions and heavy-duty service. On an E-300, tire selection is tied closely to load-carrying character and the traditional look of a period truck tire. This application uses an 800-16.5 bias-ply tire on a 16.5-inch rim, and that same size carries across the covered GVWR and Camper Special configurations. Available choices stay focused and practical, with STA offerings in the Super Transport and Traxion series. For a restoration-minded van or a road-ready hauler, the key is keeping the correct size, construction, and wheel compatibility in view.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van
The 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van uses one primary tire size: 800-16.5 in bias-ply construction on a 16.5-inch rim. That fitment remains consistent across the covered GVWR-based sub-models and the Camper Special, so the main decision is choosing the right tire style within that size and confirming that the van still has the correct 16.5-inch wheel setup.
An 800-16.5 size is a traditional numeric bias-ply truck tire, where the 800 indicates an approximate 8.00-inch nominal section width and the 16.5 identifies the wheel diameter. On a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van, this keeps the vehicle in its original-style bias-ply fitment category, which matters for period appearance and compatibility with the intended wheel size. In this size, the available choices come from STA in the Super Transport and Traxion series, both with blackwall styling and Military & Truck character. The practical comparison is less about changing size and more about matching the tire to the van’s use, wheel width, and overall restoration or driving goal.
Tire fitment is straightforward on the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van because the covered sub-models share the same 800-16.5 bias-ply size. Checking the exact sub-model still matters so the van’s GVWR-based configuration and current wheel setup can be confirmed before choosing a tire.
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1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 6050)
This 6-cylinder E-300 configuration uses the same 800-16.5 bias-ply fitment as the rest of the covered range. Tire selection centers on choosing the right period-style blackwall truck tire and confirming that the van still carries the proper 16.5-inch wheels.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 6200)
The 6200-GVWR 6-cylinder version stays with the 800-16.5 bias-ply tire size. That keeps the choice focused on the available STA truck tire lines rather than sorting through multiple primary sizes for this particular van.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 6800)
This 6800-GVWR E-300 uses 800-16.5 bias-ply tires as its primary fitment. The main consideration is selecting a tire in the correct construction and confirming wheel compatibility before putting a working or restored van back on the road.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 6800) Front
The front fitment for this 6800-GVWR configuration remains 800-16.5 in bias-ply construction. That makes the decision about tire series and condition standards rather than mixing front and rear sizes on this application.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 6800) Rear
The rear position on this 6800-GVWR E-300 also uses the 800-16.5 bias-ply size. Matching the proper size and checking wheel condition are especially important on the rear axle of a van that may see cargo, camper, or utility use.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7000)
This 7000-GVWR 6-cylinder E-300 continues with the 800-16.5 bias-ply tire fitment. Tire selection is mainly about staying with the correct size and choosing a truck-oriented blackwall design suited to the van’s intended use.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7000) Front
For the front axle, this 7000-GVWR version uses 800-16.5 bias-ply tires. The practical next step is comparing the available tire series while making sure the front wheels remain the correct 16.5-inch size and suitable width.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7000) Rear
The rear axle on this 7000-GVWR E-300 also uses the 800-16.5 bias-ply size. That keeps fitment simple, but it still pays to inspect wheel condition and choose a tire suited to the van’s hauling or collector use.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7500) Front
This 7500-GVWR front application uses the same 800-16.5 bias-ply tire size. Choosing within that fitment comes down to the available truck-tire series and confirming that the current wheel and suspension setup has not been altered.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7500) Rear
The rear fitment for this 7500-GVWR E-300 remains 800-16.5 bias-ply. On a heavier-duty rear application, staying with the correct size and inspecting both tire and wheel condition are central to safe road use.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7700) Front
The front tire fitment here is 800-16.5 in a traditional bias-ply truck format. That supports a period-style presentation while keeping the selection focused on choosing the right available series for the van’s working or restored role.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 7700) Rear
This rear 7700-GVWR configuration also uses 800-16.5 bias-ply tires. The important step is verifying the van’s current wheels and overall condition before selecting a replacement tire in the correct truck-oriented style.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 8300) Front
For the front axle, this 8300-GVWR E-300 uses the same 800-16.5 bias-ply size. Tire choice stays within a narrow, purpose-built range, so fitment accuracy and wheel compatibility matter more than comparing multiple sizes.
1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van 6 Cyl. (GVWR 8300) Rear
The rear axle on this 8300-GVWR version also carries the 800-16.5 bias-ply fitment. A buyer should focus on selecting the proper truck tire series and checking that the wheel setup still matches the original 16.5-inch requirement.
The Camper Special uses the same 800-16.5 bias-ply tire size as the other covered E-300 configurations. That makes tire selection straightforward, with the emphasis on correct size, blackwall truck-tire appearance, and wheel compatibility for a heavier-use van.
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 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van Tires for Sale
Available 800-16.5 choices for the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van focus on STA blackwall bias-ply truck tires in the Super Transport and Traxion series. The product grid is where to compare series character, rim-width compatibility, load-related specifications, and other truck-oriented details within the correct size.
These FAQs focus on the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van’s 800-16.5 fitment, 16.5-inch wheel requirements, bias-ply construction, product choices, restoration-minded appearance, and the checks that matter before regular road use.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
The 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van uses an 800-16.5 tire size in bias-ply construction. That is the primary fitment across the covered E-300 configurations here, including the GVWR-based 6-cylinder versions and the Camper Special.
The important follow-up is confirming that the van still has 16.5-inch wheels, since wheel changes are common on older work vans and camper builds. Once the wheel diameter is verified, the real choice is between the available tires within 800-16.5 rather than moving to a different primary size.
What size rim does a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van use?
A 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van with the 800-16.5 tire fitment uses a 16.5-inch rim diameter. In the available 800-16.5 products, one tire is suited to a 6.00 to 6.50-inch rim-width range, which is a useful reference point when checking wheel compatibility.
Rim diameter is the first detail to confirm because a 16.5-inch wheel is not the same as a 16-inch wheel. On an older van, it is also worth checking whether the wheels are original-style steel wheels or a later replacement, since the right tire depends on matching both diameter and usable rim width.
Do all 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van sub-models use the same tire size?
Yes. The covered 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van sub-models all use the same 800-16.5 bias-ply tire size, including the listed GVWR variations, front and rear applications, and the Camper Special.
That consistency makes selection simpler because the question is not which primary size applies to your sub-model. The more practical check is whether the van still retains its correct wheel setup and whether its current use, such as hauling or camper duty, calls for close attention to tire condition and wheel compatibility.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 800-16.5 tire for a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
Start with the basics: the correct size is 800-16.5, the construction is bias-ply, and the wheel diameter is 16.5 inches. From there, compare the available tire series, sidewall presentation, rim-width compatibility, and truck-oriented characteristics that suit how the van will actually be used.
A restored van, a light-use collector, and a working E-300 may all want the same size but not necessarily the same tire emphasis. It also helps to inspect the wheels before purchase, since an older van may have replacement rims, and the right choice depends on matching the tire to the wheel as well as the vehicle.
What brands offer tires for the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
For the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van in 800-16.5, the available tires come from STA. Within that brand, the choices include the Super Transport and Traxion series, both in blackwall bias-ply form and both aimed at truck-oriented use.
That means brand comparison is less important here than comparing the character of the available series and making sure the tire matches the van’s role. A buyer should also confirm wheel condition, especially on a vintage van that may have seen fleet service, camper conversion work, or long periods of storage.
What tire series are available for the 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
The 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van has 800-16.5 options in STA’s Super Transport and Traxion series. Both are blackwall bias-ply tires with a Military & Truck focus, so the comparison is between series within the correct size rather than between different fitment categories.
Choosing between series should come after confirming the wheel setup and deciding whether the van is being returned to a period-style presentation or used regularly for utility driving. It is also sensible to compare any available load-related and rim-width details so the tire selected matches the van’s actual wheel and use pattern.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
A period-style 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van starts with the correct 800-16.5 bias-ply size on a 16.5-inch wheel. In this fitment, the available choices stay true to a traditional truck-tire presentation with blackwall styling and vintage-style bias-ply construction.
For many restorations, the decision comes down to the tire series that best suits the van’s intended role rather than changing size or sidewall treatment. If exact originality matters beyond general period style, it is worth checking marque references, old photos, or vehicle-specific history before settling on one tire line.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van restoration?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters on a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van restoration because tire size and construction strongly influence both stance and overall presentation. Staying with the 800-16.5 bias-ply fitment keeps the van in the proper visual and mechanical neighborhood for its era.
Fitment also affects more than appearance. A van with mismatched wheel diameter, altered rims, or the wrong tire size can create clearance issues and change how the finished restoration sits. Even on a cosmetic project, it pays to verify the wheels and choose a tire that supports the van’s intended look and real-world use.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van?
Yes. Modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van, even when the original size is 800-16.5. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, axle changes, brake conversions, or body alterations can all change the space available and the type of wheel the van now uses.
That is especially important on older E-300s because many were used hard or converted for campers and utility work. A careful check of wheel diameter, usable rim width, steering clearance, and fender clearance should happen before selecting a replacement tire, rather than assuming the van still matches its original-type setup.
What should I inspect before driving a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van on new tires?
Before driving a 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion and make sure the wheel diameter matches the 16.5-inch tire fitment. It is also smart to check lug hardware, valve stems, and basic alignment-related wear that may have affected the previous tires.
The rest of the inspection should include suspension and steering condition, because worn components can make a heavy vintage van feel unsettled even with fresh tires. Tire pressure should be set correctly for the installed tire and the van’s use, and a short initial drive can help confirm that there is no rubbing, pull, or vibration.
How should 800-16.5 tires on a collector 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van be maintained?
800-16.5 tires on a collector 1973 Ford Van E-300 Econoline Van should be maintained with regular pressure checks, routine visual inspection, and attention to age-related deterioration. Even a van that sees little mileage can develop cracking, flat spotting, air loss, or sidewall damage if it sits for long periods.
Storage conditions matter on a vintage van. Keeping the vehicle away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires, and moving the van occasionally can reduce long-term stress on one contact patch. Before any longer drive, inspect tread and sidewalls carefully and confirm that the wheels are still sound.
