The 1979 Ford F-100 came at the end of the sixth-generation F-Series run, a period when Ford pickups were expected to handle everyday work while still reflecting the broad styling and utility trends of the late 1970s. For owners restoring or maintaining one today, tire choice is tied closely to the truck’s exact GVWR or configuration, because this F-100 uses several 15-inch bias-ply sizes including F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, L78-15, and 700-15. Available choices range from traditional blackwalls and wide whitewalls to truck-oriented tread series, and several primary sizes also have modern radial equivalents. The key is matching the truck’s exact setup before deciding between period-style bias-ply presentation and a radial alternative.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1979 Ford F-100
The 1979 Ford F-100 uses five primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the truck’s exact sub-model and GVWR configuration rather than a single universal fitment. All of these fitments use bias-ply construction on a 15-inch rim, so the first step is confirming the specific truck setup before choosing between passenger-style sidewall treatments, truck-oriented tread designs, or radial-equivalent alternatives where available.
F78-15 is a vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size in which the letter identifies the tire’s general size class, the 78 indicates its profile family, and the 15 refers to the wheel diameter in inches. On a 1979 Ford F-100, this size keeps the truck in its original bias-ply fitment style and applies to certain 4x2 configurations rather than every version. Radial equivalents are available in several sizing formats, including a bias-look radial alternative. This size makes sense when the truck’s exact configuration calls for it and the goal is to stay close to the original fitment pattern.
G78-15 uses the same vintage alphanumeric bias-ply sizing system, with the letter designating the tire’s size class, the series number indicating the profile family, and the 15 marking the rim diameter. For the 1979 Ford F-100, it appears on several 4x2 GVWR configurations and remains a true bias-ply truck-era fitment. Available choices include Coker Classic wide whitewall versions and an STA Super Traxion blackwall truck tire. It is a useful size to evaluate when the truck needs a correct 15-inch bias-ply fitment but the final choice depends on whether appearance or heavier-duty truck character matters more.
Fit(s): 4x2 (GVWR 4800), 4x2 (GVWR 4900), 4x2 (GVWR 5200), 4x2 (GVWR 5300 & 5600), 4x2 (GVWR 5400), 4x2 Super Cab, 4x2 w/351 & 400 Eng., and 4x4 Super Cab
Construction: Bias Ply|Rim: 15 in
H78-15 is another vintage alphanumeric bias-ply size, with the letter showing the relative size class, the series number describing the profile family, and the final 15 identifying the wheel diameter. This is one of the more broadly used 1979 Ford F-100 sizes and appears across multiple 4x2 and specialty configurations. Product choices include Coker Classic wide whitewall versions for a more traditional presentation and STA Traxion blackwall options with a truck-oriented look. It is often the size to check closely when balancing authentic late-1970s bias-ply fitment with the truck’s intended use and visual style.
Fit(s): 4x2 (GVWR 5200), 4x2 (GVWR 5300 & 5600), 4x2 (GVWR 5400), 4x2 Super Cab, 4x2 w/351 & 400 Eng., and 4x4 Super Cab
Construction: Bias Ply|Rim: 15 in
L78-15 follows the same alphanumeric bias-ply format, but it represents a larger size class within that vintage system while still using a 15-inch wheel. On the 1979 Ford F-100, it is used on heavier 4x2 and related configurations where a larger bias-ply fitment is part of the truck’s setup. This size has the broadest product variety, including blackwall, wide whitewall, narrow whitewall, dual-white-stripe, and truck-oriented STA tread series. It deserves careful consideration when the truck’s configuration calls for it and the owner wants the widest range of appearance and use-oriented choices.
Fit(s): 4x2 (GVWR 5400), 4x2 Super Cab, 4x2 w/351 & 400 Eng., and 4x4 Super Cab
Construction: Bias Ply|Rim: 15 in
700-15 is a numeric bias-ply size, where the leading number represents an approximate nominal section width of 7.00 inches and the 15 identifies wheel diameter. For the 1979 Ford F-100, this size appears on certain higher-GVWR, Super Cab, engine-specific, and 4x4 Super Cab configurations rather than across the entire model line. Choices include Firestone and BFGoodrich period-style blackwall and wide whitewall versions, along with several STA truck and transport series. It is the size to verify carefully when the truck has a more work-oriented configuration or when wheel width needs closer attention.
Tire fitment for the 1979 Ford F-100 varies meaningfully by GVWR and configuration, so the exact sub-model matters before any size is selected. Many versions share overlapping 15-inch bias-ply sizes, but they do not all use the same range of choices.
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1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 4800)
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 4800) uses smaller-to-mid-range 15-inch bias-ply fitments within the F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15 range. That makes exact size confirmation especially important before comparing period-style bias-ply options or considering a radial equivalent for one of those primary sizes.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 4900) follows the same general fitment pattern as the 4800 GVWR version, using F78-15, G78-15, and H78-15 bias-ply sizes. Tire selection starts with confirming which of those sizes is on the truck now, then choosing the right appearance and use-oriented product within that size.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 5200) moves into G78-15, H78-15, and L78-15 bias-ply fitments, reflecting a different range than lighter-duty 4x2 versions. That broader upper-size spread makes it important to verify the wheel and existing setup before narrowing the choice to classic sidewall styling or truck-oriented tread.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 5300 & 5600) uses H78-15 and L78-15 bias-ply sizes rather than the smaller options seen on lighter trucks. Buyers looking at this configuration should confirm which of those two sizes is actually in use, then compare sidewall style, series, and overall presentation carefully.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 (GVWR 5400) can use 700-15, H78-15, or L78-15, making it one of the more varied fitment points in the lineup. Because those sizes cover both numeric and alphanumeric bias-ply formats, wheel confirmation and existing-truck inspection should come before any construction or appearance decision.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 Super Cab uses 700-15, H78-15, or L78-15 bias-ply fitments on 15-inch wheels. That means the real task is identifying which size belongs on the specific truck, then choosing between classic whitewall styling and more work-oriented blackwall truck tread designs.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x2 w/351 & 400 Eng. also falls into the 700-15, H78-15, or L78-15 bias-ply range. For this configuration, the safest approach is to confirm the current wheel and tire setup first, then evaluate whether the goal is restoration-style appearance, truck-duty bias-ply character, or a radial equivalent where available.
The 1979 Ford F-100 4x4 Super Cab uses 700-15, H78-15, or L78-15 bias-ply sizes, all on 15-inch rims. Since this configuration spans multiple primary sizes, tire choice should begin with exact fitment confirmation and then move to tread style, sidewall appearance, and overall compatibility with the truck’s current setup.
Bias-Ply to Radial Tire Conversion for the 1979 Ford F-100
Several 1979 Ford F-100 primary tire sizes have radial-equivalent options. F78-15 can be compared with 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, with a 5-7 inch recommended rim-width range. G78-15, H78-15, and L78-15 follow the same progression through 205R15, 215R15, and 235R15 metric radials, corresponding P-metric 75- and 70-series alternatives, and 710R15, 760R15, and 820R15 bias-look radials. These alternatives should be checked against wheel width, overall dimensions, and truck clearance before conversion.
Modern Radial Equivalents
195R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (F78-15)
P205/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (F78-15)
P215/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (F78-15)
670R15
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (F78-15)
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)
235R15
Equivalent 80-series Metric Radial (L78-15)
P235/75R15
Equivalent P-metric 75-series Radial (L78-15)
P255/70R15
Equivalent P-metric 70-series Radial (L78-15)
820R15
Bias-look Radial Equivalent (L78-15)
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 1979 Ford F-100 Tires for Sale
Available 1979 Ford F-100 tire choices span Coker Classic, BFGoodrich, Firestone, and STA, with bias-ply offerings that range from blackwall and wide whitewall to narrow whitewall and dual-white-stripe styles. Product differences also include classic passenger-style series and truck-oriented tread lines in several of the primary 15-inch sizes.
Owners of a 1979 Ford F-100 usually need to sort out exact tire size by GVWR or configuration first, then decide how closely to stay with the original bias-ply setup. The questions below cover fitment, radial equivalents, sidewall and brand choices, restoration concerns, and road-use checks.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1979 Ford F-100?
A 1979 Ford F-100 can use F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, L78-15, or 700-15, all in bias-ply construction on 15-inch rims. There is not one universal size for every truck, because fitment varies by GVWR and configuration, including certain 4x2, Super Cab, engine-specific, and 4x4 Super Cab versions.
The practical first step is identifying the truck’s exact sub-model before choosing a tire. Once the correct primary size is confirmed, selection shifts to sidewall style, tread character, and whether the truck will stay with a period-style bias-ply tire or be evaluated against an available radial equivalent.
What size rim does a 1979 Ford F-100 use?
The covered tire fitments for a 1979 Ford F-100 use a 15-inch rim diameter. That applies across the primary bias-ply sizes F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, L78-15, and 700-15, so the wheel diameter stays consistent even though the tire sizes vary by configuration.
Wheel diameter is only part of the fitment picture, especially on an older truck that may have had wheel changes over time. It is still worth confirming actual wheel width and the current tire size on the truck before moving to a replacement, particularly when comparing a numeric size like 700-15 with the alphanumeric bias-ply sizes.
Why does the 1979 Ford F-100 have more than one tire size?
The 1979 Ford F-100 has more than one tire size because tire fitment changes with GVWR and configuration. Lighter 4x2 models can use smaller sizes such as F78-15, while heavier or differently configured trucks move into H78-15, L78-15, or 700-15 depending on the version.
That variation means tire selection should not start from the model name alone. Matching the exact truck setup matters more than choosing the most common size, since appearance, load-related product differences, and radial-equivalent options all depend on first getting the correct primary size narrowed down.
Bias-Ply & Radial Options
Is F78-15 a bias-ply or radial tire for the 1979 Ford F-100?
F78-15 is a bias-ply tire size for the 1979 Ford F-100. It uses the vintage alphanumeric bias-ply sizing system, and on this truck it is one of the primary 15-inch fitments used on certain 4x2 configurations rather than a radial factory-format size.
That matters because keeping an F78-15 bias-ply tire preserves the truck’s original construction style and period presentation. A radial alternative can be considered separately, but the wheel width, overall dimensions, and clearance around the truck should still be checked before moving away from the original bias-ply format.
What radial tire sizes are equivalent to F78-15 on a 1979 Ford F-100?
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. The recommended rim-width range associated with those equivalents is 5 to 7 inches.
Those choices give the 1979 Ford F-100 owner several ways to approach a radial conversion, from a conventional metric radial to a bias-look radial that keeps a more traditional appearance. Even with the same 15-inch rim diameter, overall fit should be checked against the wheel, fender space, and steering clearance before making the switch.
What should I check before converting my 1979 Ford F-100 from bias-ply to radial tires?
Start by matching the radial equivalent to the truck’s actual primary tire size, since F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, and L78-15 each have their own equivalent range. The wheel diameter must remain correct, and wheel width should be compared with the recommended range attached to the radial option being considered.
A careful conversion also means checking clearance at the fenders and steering components, especially on a truck that may have changed wheels or suspension over the years. The decision should account for how the truck will be used, since some owners want a more traditional bias-ply look while others want a radial alternative.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a 1979 Ford F-100 tire?
Begin with the exact primary size for the truck, since a 1979 Ford F-100 may use F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, L78-15, or 700-15 depending on configuration. From there, the important decisions are whether to stay with bias-ply construction, which sidewall presentation suits the truck, and whether the tire is more passenger-style or truck-oriented.
The most useful comparison points are rim compatibility, sidewall style, load figures where they are given, and the overall look the truck should have once mounted. A restoration-minded F-100 may call for a very different tire presentation than a work-focused pickup that is expected to emphasize truck tread and blackwall appearance.
What sidewall styles are available for 1979 Ford F-100 tires?
1979 Ford F-100 tires are available in several sidewall styles depending on size, including blackwall, wide whitewall, narrow whitewall, and dual-white-stripe. The broadest variety appears in L78-15 and 700-15, while G78-15 and H78-15 also offer a mix of traditional whitewall and truck-style blackwall choices.
Sidewall style changes the truck’s visual character as much as the brand or tread series does. A whitewall treatment leans toward a more passenger-inspired late-1970s presentation, while blackwall truck tires give the F-100 a more utilitarian look, so the final decision should support the truck’s intended restoration style and use.
What brands offer tires for the 1979 Ford F-100?
Tires for the 1979 Ford F-100 are available from Coker Classic, STA, Firestone, and BFGoodrich across the covered primary sizes. Brand availability varies by size, with some sizes leaning toward classic whitewall passenger-style offerings and others including more truck-oriented blackwall tread series.
Brand choice is most useful when it helps separate product character rather than serving as a shortcut to fitment. After the correct size is confirmed, compare the brand’s available series, sidewall treatment, and any stated rim-width or load details so the selected tire matches both the truck’s setup and its finished appearance.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1979 Ford F-100?
A period-style 1979 Ford F-100 should start with the correct primary bias-ply size for the truck’s exact configuration, whether that is F78-15, G78-15, H78-15, L78-15, or 700-15. Staying with a bias-ply tire keeps the vintage sizing format and construction style that visually suits a late-1970s pickup.
From there, the right choice depends on how the truck is being presented. Some owners will want a blackwall truck tire for a more work-oriented look, while others may prefer whitewall styling for a more dressed, restoration-oriented appearance. Exact originality claims should be checked against vehicle-specific historical references when that level matters.
How does tire construction affect the appearance of a restored 1979 Ford F-100?
Tire construction affects both the stance and visual character of a restored 1979 Ford F-100. A bias-ply tire preserves the truck’s original-era construction style and works naturally with vintage alphanumeric or numeric sizing, while a radial alternative changes the presentation even if the rim diameter remains 15 inches.
That difference matters most when the truck is being restored with a strong period look in mind. A bias-look radial can help bridge the gap for owners who want a radial option without giving up all of the traditional visual cues, but the final appearance should still be judged on the actual wheel and truck combination.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1979 Ford F-100?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1979 Ford F-100 even when the truck uses one of the correct primary 15-inch sizes. Changes to wheel width, wheel offset, suspension height, steering components, or body clearance can all alter how a bias-ply or radial-equivalent tire sits and moves on the truck.
That is why the truck should be checked as it exists today rather than assumed to match its original setup. Even small changes can matter on an older pickup, so clearance at full steering lock and through suspension travel should be reviewed before settling on a replacement tire size or construction.
What should I inspect before driving a 1979 Ford F-100 on new tires?
Before driving a 1979 Ford F-100 on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and sound condition, verify the tires are mounted in the proper size, and confirm inflation is set appropriately for the tire being used. It is also wise to check valve stems, lug hardware, and general tread and sidewall condition after installation.
A short test drive should be followed by another look at clearance, especially if the truck has older suspension parts or any wheel changes in its history. Attention to steering response, rubbing, and consistent air retention helps catch fitment issues early before the truck is put into regular road use.
How should 1979 Ford F-100 tires be maintained on a collector truck?
Collector-use tires on a 1979 Ford F-100 should be inspected regularly for air loss, sidewall cracking, cuts, bulges, and uneven tread wear, even if the truck is driven only occasionally. Bias-ply tires in particular deserve routine visual checks because older trucks often spend long periods parked between drives.
Storage conditions also matter. Keeping the truck away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps preserve the tires between outings, and occasional pressure checks remain important whether the truck wears a classic whitewall tire or a blackwall truck tread. Low annual mileage does not eliminate aging concerns.
