1973 International Scout Tires

A 1973 International Scout uses one of four primary bias-ply tire sizes: E78-15, F78-15, G78-15, or H78-15. The correct size depends on the engine-based sub-model. The 4 & 6 Cyl. Scout uses E78-15, G78-15, and H78-15, while the 8 Cyl. Scout uses F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15.

The practical step is to confirm the exact Scout configuration and then verify the wheel setup actually on the vehicle today. Many Scouts have seen wheel or suspension changes over the years, so the tire decision should match both the correct size range for the sub-model and the current 15-inch wheel combination before moving into bias-ply or radial-equivalent choices.

The covered tire fitments for a 1973 International Scout all use a 15-inch rim diameter. That applies across E78-15, F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15, so the wheel diameter remains consistent even though the available tire sizes vary by sub-model.

Rim diameter is only part of the fitment picture, especially on an older utility vehicle. The wheel width still matters when comparing different tires or considering a radial equivalent, and any aftermarket wheel change can alter the available choices. Confirming both diameter and actual wheel width helps narrow the right tire far more effectively than looking at size code alone.

No. The covered 1973 International Scout sub-models overlap in some sizes, but they do not share the exact same size range. The 4 & 6 Cyl. version uses E78-15, G78-15, and H78-15, while the 8 Cyl. version uses F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15.

That overlap can make Scout fitment seem simpler than it really is, especially when the vehicle already has replacement wheels or tires installed. Starting with the exact engine-based sub-model helps sort out whether E78-15 or F78-15 belongs in the conversation, and then the final choice can be refined by appearance goals, current wheel width, and how the Scout is expected to be used.

E78-15 is a bias-ply primary tire size for the 1973 International Scout. It uses the vintage alphanumeric sizing system rather than a modern metric radial format, so the original fitment language points to a traditional bias-ply construction on a 15-inch rim.

That matters because an E78-15 Scout can be kept in a period-style bias-ply setup or evaluated against radial equivalents such as 185R15, P195/75R15, and P205/70R15. The decision is not only about construction type; it also requires checking wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance so the alternative matches the vehicle’s current setup rather than just the original size designation.

Radial equivalents for F78-15 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. These options all relate back to the original F78-15 fitment used on the 1973 International Scout.

Each equivalent follows a different sizing convention, so the choice is less about one automatic substitute and more about which format best suits the vehicle. The recommended rim-width range for these equivalents is 5-7 inches, and the final check should include wheel compatibility, tire dimensions, and fender or steering clearance before moving away from the original bias-ply size.

A conversion from bias-ply to radial tires on a 1973 International Scout starts with the original size on the vehicle, such as E78-15, F78-15, G78-15, or H78-15, and then moves to the equivalent radial sizes tied to that fitment. Wheel diameter remains 15 inches, but wheel width and the exact equivalent chosen still matter.

A careful check should include the actual wheel width, the overall space in the wheel opening, steering clearance at full lock, and the condition of suspension components that affect tire movement. It also helps to confirm whether the Scout still has its original-style wheels, since aftermarket wheels can change how a radial equivalent sits even when the nominal rim diameter is correct.

Choosing a G78-15 tire for a 1973 International Scout starts with making sure G78-15 is one of the correct sizes for the specific sub-model and wheel setup. Within that size, the biggest differences are construction style, visual presentation, and intended use. G78-15 is available as a Coker Classic wide whitewall bias-ply and as an STA Super Traxion blackwall bias-ply.

That creates a meaningful split between a more restoration-oriented appearance and a more truck-style look. Comparing rim-width compatibility, sidewall style, tire series, and overall character is more useful than focusing on size alone. A Scout aimed at show presentation may call for a different visual choice than one meant to emphasize its utility roots.

The available sidewall styles for covered 1973 International Scout tires include Wide Whitewall and Blackwall. On G78-15 and H78-15, the whitewall choices come from the Coker Classic Bias Ply line, while the blackwall choices appear in STA truck-oriented lines such as Super Traxion and Traxion.

That sidewall decision changes the Scout’s presentation more than many buyers expect. A wide whitewall gives the vehicle a more dressed, restoration-minded look, while a blackwall keeps the appearance more functional and rugged. The right choice depends on whether the Scout is being interpreted as a period-style utility vehicle, a more formal restoration project, or something in between.

Available tires for the covered 1973 International Scout fitments include products from Coker Classic and STA. In the currently covered sizes, Coker Classic appears in whitewall bias-ply offerings, while STA appears in blackwall truck-style bias-ply offerings such as Super Traxion and Traxion.

Brand choice here is really about comparing the kind of tire each line represents rather than assuming one name answers every need. A whitewall Coker Classic tire supports a more traditional presentation, while an STA option leans toward a utility-minded look. The best comparison points are size, sidewall style, series character, and wheel compatibility for the specific Scout.

A period-style 1973 International Scout usually begins with the correct bias-ply size for the exact sub-model, since the Scout’s primary fitments are E78-15, F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15 on 15-inch rims. Staying in the original alphanumeric bias-ply format preserves the visual language the vehicle would have carried in its own era.

From there, the appearance choice becomes more specific. A wide whitewall Coker Classic tire gives a much different impression than an STA blackwall truck-style tire, even within the proper fitment range. Buyers concerned with exact historical presentation should compare the vehicle against period photos, marque references, or restoration documentation before deciding on sidewall treatment.

Tire construction has a visible effect on a restored 1973 International Scout because bias-ply and radial tires do not present the vehicle in quite the same way. The Scout’s primary fitments are bias-ply, so retaining that construction keeps the size designation and traditional tire style closest to the vehicle’s original-era presentation.

A radial equivalent can still be a useful alternative, especially when a bias-look radial is available for sizes such as F78-15, G78-15, or H78-15. The visual result depends on more than construction alone, though. Sidewall treatment, wheel width, and the Scout’s overall stance also influence whether the finished vehicle reads as more restoration-oriented or more updated in character.

Yes. Modifications can change tire fitment on a 1973 International Scout even when the vehicle still uses one of the correct 15-inch tire sizes. Aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, altered offset, suspension lifts or lowering, and body changes can all affect how an E78-15, F78-15, G78-15, or H78-15 tire sits on the vehicle.

That is especially important when moving toward a radial equivalent, because the replacement no longer shares the exact original size code even if it is a recognized alternative. A quick fitment review should include wheel dimensions, steering clearance, tire-to-fender space, and any evidence of rubbing through suspension travel so the Scout’s actual setup drives the final choice.

Before driving a 1973 International Scout on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, verify lug hardware condition, and make sure the chosen tire size matches the vehicle’s sub-model and wheel diameter. It also helps to confirm that inflation is appropriate for the tire being used and that valve stems, balance, and bead seating are all in proper order.

A first road-use check should also include steering clearance, fender clearance, and any sign of contact at full lock or over suspension movement. Since many Scouts spend long periods parked, it is smart to look beyond the tires themselves and inspect brakes, wheel bearings, and suspension wear before putting the vehicle back into regular use.

1973 International Scout tires should be maintained with regular pressure checks, visual inspections, and periodic reviews for uneven wear, cuts, bulges, or sidewall cracking. That matters whether the Scout is running traditional bias-ply tires or a radial equivalent, and it matters even more on collector vehicles that may sit for long intervals between drives.

Storage conditions play a major role in tire life on a low-use Scout. Keeping the vehicle away from prolonged sun, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve both appearance and condition. It is also wise to inspect the tires before any longer outing rather than assuming low mileage means low risk, since age and storage can matter as much as tread depth.