1979 Ford F-150 Tires

The 1979 Ford F-150 uses three primary tire sizes: L78-15, LR78-15, and 700-15. All are 15-inch fitments, but they do not apply uniformly across every truck. L78-15 and 700-15 are bias-ply sizes, while LR78-15 is the radial-format fitment found on certain covered configurations.

The correct choice depends on the truck's exact sub-model, including whether it is 4x2 or 4x4, Super Cab or standard cab, and its GVWR. Start by confirming the specific configuration and the wheels currently on the truck, because some versions can use more than one listed size and construction.

The tire fitments covered for the 1979 Ford F-150 are built around a 15-inch rim diameter. That applies to L78-15, LR78-15, and 700-15. Even though the overall tire choices vary by sub-model, the wheel diameter stays consistent within these primary fitments.

Rim diameter is only the first check, since wheel width still matters when comparing tire options. Some 700-15 products are intended for narrower 5.00- to 5.50-inch rims, while many L78-15 and LR78-15 products work across a wider range, so the actual wheel on the truck should be verified before selecting a tire.

The 1979 Ford F-150 has more than one tire size because fitment changes across different configurations. Drivetrain, cab style, wheelbase, and GVWR all affect which tire sizes appear, which is why some trucks use L78-15 and LR78-15, while others also include 700-15 in the fitment range.

That variation means the best starting point is the truck itself, not the model name alone. Once the exact sub-model is confirmed, tire selection becomes much easier because the decision shifts from broad fitment questions to construction choice, sidewall style, and whether the existing wheel setup matches the intended tire.

L78-15 is a bias-ply tire size for the 1979 Ford F-150. It is the vintage alphanumeric bias-ply fitment used across several covered truck configurations. That makes it distinct from LR78-15, which is the radial-format size that appears on certain F-150 applications in the same model year.

Choosing L78-15 usually means preserving a traditional truck-era construction and appearance, with several blackwall and whitewall options available. It is still important to confirm the exact sub-model and the wheel on the truck, since some F-150 configurations can use different sizes or constructions even though all of them remain 15-inch fitments.

Radial equivalents for L78-15 include 235R15, P235/75R15, P255/70R15, and 820R15. In that group, 235R15 is the 80-series metric radial option, P235/75R15 is the 75-series P-metric radial, P255/70R15 is the 70-series P-metric radial, and 820R15 is the bias-look radial equivalent.

These sizes give different ways to approach a radial conversion, from a more traditional metric format to a lower-profile P-metric choice and a bias-look radial presentation. The recommended rim-width range for the L78-15 equivalent family is 6 to 8 inches, and wheel width plus truck clearance should be checked before making the switch.

Start by confirming which original size your 1979 Ford F-150 uses, because not every covered size has the same radial path. L78-15 has radial-equivalent options, while LR78-15 already represents the radial-format fitment on certain trucks. Wheel diameter, wheel width, and the exact sub-model should all be verified before moving away from a bias-ply setup.

A radial equivalent should be treated as an alternative, not as automatic interchangeability. Compare the intended tire against the truck's actual wheel and look closely at steering travel, fender clearance, suspension condition, and how the truck sits under load so the conversion matches both appearance goals and road-use needs.

Begin with the exact fitment question: which sub-model the truck is, which of the listed sizes applies, and whether the setup calls for bias-ply or radial construction. A 1979 Ford F-150 can use L78-15, LR78-15, or 700-15 depending on configuration, so size confirmation comes before comparing brands or sidewall styling.

After size is settled, compare the tire's intended character with the truck's role. Some options lean toward traditional passenger-style appearance with whitewall treatments, while others are more truck-oriented through series such as Traxion, Transport Highway, or Super Traxion. Wheel width, load figures, and restoration goals all help narrow the final choice.

Available sidewall styles for 1979 Ford F-150 tires include blackwall, narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, and dual-white-stripe treatments. The exact style depends on the size and tire series. L78-15 offers the broadest visual range, while LR78-15 appears with a narrow whitewall and many 700-15 truck-oriented choices stay with blackwall.

Sidewall style changes the truck's presentation more than many owners expect, especially on a late-1970s pickup with visible sidewall height. A blackwall usually suits a work-truck or utility look, while whitewall variations lean more toward a restoration-oriented or period-style appearance, provided the selected style matches the truck's overall build.

Tire options for the 1979 Ford F-150 include Coker Classic, BFGoodrich, Firestone, and STA, depending on the size. L78-15 has choices from Coker Classic, BFGoodrich, and STA, LR78-15 is represented by Firestone, and 700-15 includes Firestone, BFGoodrich, and STA across both passenger-style and truck-oriented lines.

Brand is only one part of the decision, since the same size can vary by series, sidewall treatment, and intended use. A shopper comparing brands should also look at whether the tire is built as a traditional bias-ply, a bias-look radial presentation, or a truck-specific series that better matches how the F-150 will be driven.

A period-style 1979 Ford F-150 usually starts with one of its primary fitments in the correct size for the truck's exact configuration, most often L78-15 or 700-15 bias-ply, or LR78-15 where radial-format fitment applies. From there, the real choice is whether the truck should look more like a working pickup, a cleaner road-going restoration, or something in between.

Blackwall truck series can support a more utility-focused presentation, while whitewall options create a more dressed appearance. Exact originality can depend on how the truck was delivered and later equipped, so owners pursuing a highly exact restoration should compare the tire choice against vehicle-specific historical references and the truck's existing wheel setup.

Tire construction affects more than ride and road feel on a restored 1979 Ford F-150; it also changes the visual character of the truck. A bias-ply tire such as L78-15 or 700-15 keeps a strongly vintage presentation, while LR78-15 or a radial equivalent for L78-15 can move the truck toward a more modern look depending on sidewall treatment.

That difference matters most when the truck is being restored with a clear visual goal. Some owners want the traditional profile and stance associated with an older pickup, while others prefer radial construction but still want a classic appearance, which is where a bias-look radial can become part of the conversation.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1979 Ford F-150 even when the tire size itself is correct for the model range. Aftermarket wheels, changes in wheel width, altered offset, suspension lifts or drops, and body modifications can all change how L78-15, LR78-15, or 700-15 sits and clears the truck.

A modified F-150 should be checked at full steering travel and with the suspension loaded so clearance issues are caught early. Tire selection gets easier once the actual wheel and chassis setup are confirmed, because that tells you whether the truck still matches a stock-style fitment path or needs extra caution.

Before driving a 1979 Ford F-150 on new tires, inspect the wheels for damage, verify that rim diameter and width suit the chosen tire, and confirm that all tires are inflated appropriately for their application. It also helps to look over suspension and steering components so the new tires are not being asked to work around worn hardware.

A short test drive should include listening for rubbing and checking that the truck tracks properly without unusual vibration. After the first miles, recheck air pressure and look at sidewall and tread clearance again, especially if the truck has been sitting, recently restored, or fitted with wheels that may not be original to it.

Collector-truck tire care starts with regular visual inspection and stable storage conditions. On a 1979 Ford F-150, that means watching for sidewall cracking, bulges, cuts, uneven tread wear, and gradual air loss, especially if the truck spends long periods parked. Low-use vehicles can develop age-related tire issues even when tread still looks usable.

Pressure checks and occasional movement help prevent flat spotting and unnecessary stress on older tires. Storage away from prolonged sunlight, heat, moisture, and ozone sources also helps preserve condition. Before any longer drive, inspect each tire closely and confirm that the wheel, valve area, and tire bead all still look sound.