1980 Dodge Trucks D300 Tires

The 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 uses 16.5-inch tire sizes, but the exact size depends on the sub-model. Covered fitments include 8.00R16.5 and 800-16.5 for the D300 (DRW), plus 9.50R16.5 and 950-16.5 for the D300 Base. That means both radial and bias-ply constructions appear within the overall D300 lineup rather than one single size covering every truck.

The practical step is to confirm which D300 configuration is actually in front of you before selecting a tire. A truck may also have had wheels changed over the years, so checking the existing wheel diameter and the size currently mounted is just as important as knowing the model name on paper.

The covered tire fitments for the 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 all use a 16.5-inch rim diameter. That remains true whether the truck is using the narrower 8.00-size family or the wider 9.50-size family, and whether the tire is bias-ply or radial. Rim diameter is consistent even though the tire widths and constructions vary by sub-model.

Rim diameter alone does not settle the whole fitment question, because width and construction still matter. It is smart to confirm the actual wheel on the truck, especially on older work trucks that may have seen replacements or service changes, then compare the tire size to the correct sub-model before making a final selection.

More than one tire size appears because the covered 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 sub-models do not all use the same width group. The D300 (DRW) is associated with the 8.00-size family, while the D300 Base uses the wider 9.50-size family. Each of those sub-model fitments is also represented in both radial and bias-ply construction.

That variation means the first decision is not simply bias-ply versus radial, but which D300 configuration the truck actually is. Once that is settled, the choice becomes much more straightforward: stay within the correct width group, confirm the 16.5-inch wheel, and then compare tire construction and available series within that proper fitment.

Start with the exact sub-model, because the 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 uses different tire width groups depending on configuration. The covered fitments separate into 8.00-size and 9.50-size families, and each family includes both radial and bias-ply choices on a 16.5-inch rim. That makes accurate vehicle identification more important than jumping straight to brand or tread style.

After size is confirmed, compare the kind of use the truck will see and the presentation you want. A restoration-oriented truck may favor a period-style bias-ply look, while a road-driven truck may lead you to evaluate radial construction. Wheel width, load needs, and any later changes to the truck should all be reviewed before finalizing the selection.

The available product selection for the covered bias-ply D300 fitments centers on STA. Within the applicable sizes, STA appears in the Super Transport and Traxion series, both aimed at truck-duty use and both offered in Blackwall styling. That keeps the brand decision simple and shifts the buyer’s attention toward size, construction, and series differences instead.

Since the available choices are concentrated within one brand family, comparing product details becomes especially important. Check the exact size first, then look at the tire series, rim-width specification where stated, and any load-related figures tied to the product. Those factors will tell you more than brand alone when selecting a D300 truck tire.

For the covered bias-ply sizes on the 1980 Dodge Trucks D300, the available tire series are STA Super Transport and STA Traxion. Both appear in Blackwall form and are grouped under Military & Truck use, which suits the heavy-duty character of a one-ton Dodge truck. The series choice applies within the correct size rather than replacing the need to confirm fitment first.

Once the truck’s proper size is identified, the series comparison helps refine the purchase. It is worth checking details such as rim-width specification, weight, and any stated load capacity, especially on a truck expected to do more than occasional show use. Those distinctions matter more after the right size and construction have already been settled.

A period-style 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 usually starts with the correct size family for the sub-model and often leans toward the matching bias-ply option. That means 800-16.5 for the D300 (DRW) or 950-16.5 for the D300 Base when the goal is a traditional heavy-duty truck presentation. The available bias-ply choices also stay within a straightforward Blackwall truck-tire look.

Construction has a visible effect on stance and character, so restoration-minded buyers often decide that question early. Exact originality claims should be verified through model-specific historical references if that level of detail matters, but the correct size family and a bias-ply truck tire are a sound period-style starting point for most D300 projects.

On a restored 1980 Dodge Trucks D300, bias-ply and radial tires can change the truck’s visual character even when the rim diameter stays the same. The D300’s covered fitments include both constructions, so the appearance question is real rather than theoretical. Bias-ply choices tend to align more naturally with an older commercial-truck presentation, while radial sizing may suit owners balancing vintage look with later-style construction.

Appearance should still be considered alongside wheel compatibility and intended use. A truck restored for display may lead to a different choice than one expected to spend more time on the road, and the right answer starts with the correct sub-model size family. Construction choice comes after that fitment foundation is established.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1980 Dodge Trucks D300, even when the truck still uses a 16.5-inch wheel. Changes such as aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, suspension work, or body alterations can influence whether the original size family remains appropriate. That matters on this truck because the covered fitments already split between narrower 8.00-size and wider 9.50-size applications.

A modified truck should be checked at the wheel and vehicle level, not just by model name. Tire width, wheel width, steering clearance, and fender space all deserve attention before choosing between bias-ply and radial options. On an older work truck, it is also wise to confirm that both front and rear wheel setups are actually the same as expected.

Before driving a 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 on new tires, inspect the wheels, confirm the mounted size matches the truck’s correct sub-model fitment, and make sure the tires are inflated appropriately for the application. It is also smart to look over valve stems, wheel condition, and basic clearance around suspension and body components before the truck goes back into regular road use.

A longer visual check is worthwhile on any collector-era truck that may have spent time parked. Examine the tires for cuts, bulges, irregular seating, or signs of air loss after mounting, then recheck clearances once the truck is on the ground and turned lock to lock. Catching those issues early helps avoid problems on the first drive.

800-16.5 and 950-16.5 tires on a collector 1980 Dodge Trucks D300 should be maintained with regular pressure checks, routine visual inspections, and attention to storage conditions. Older trucks often sit for long periods, so sidewall condition, tread wear, and slow air loss deserve more attention than mileage alone would suggest. That applies whether the truck is used for shows, light driving, or occasional utility duty.

Storage habits matter almost as much as road use on a low-mileage vehicle. Keeping the truck away from prolonged sunlight, excess heat, moisture, and ozone sources can help preserve tire condition over time. It also helps to inspect the tires before every outing rather than assuming they are ready just because the truck was fine on its last drive.