1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat Tires

The 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat uses four primary tire sizes: 800-16.5, 875-16.5, 8.75R16.5, and 950-16.5. Which one applies depends on the truck's exact sub-model, including whether it is 4x2 or 4x4, whether it is a Super Cab or Super Cab Long Bed, and its GVWR.

That means the first job is identifying the exact configuration rather than picking a tire by appearance alone. Several sub-models allow more than one size and may span both bias-ply and radial construction, so the truck's wheel setup and weight-rating category should be confirmed before choosing a replacement tire.

The tire fitments covered for the 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat use a 16.5-inch rim diameter. That applies across the primary sizes on this page, including 800-16.5, 875-16.5, 8.75R16.5, and 950-16.5.

Rim diameter consistency does not mean every tire size suits every truck configuration. Wheel width still matters, especially on the larger bias-ply sizes, and the truck may have had wheel changes over time. Checking the actual wheel diameter stamped on the rim and comparing it to the intended tire size helps prevent costly mistakes.

This truck line used different tire sizes because the F-250 XLT Lariat was offered in multiple configurations with different drivetrains, cab styles, and GVWR ratings. Some sub-models use lighter-duty 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 bias-ply fitments, while heavier versions can move to 950-16.5 or, on certain applications, 8.75R16.5 radial.

The practical takeaway is that the truck's exact sub-model matters more than the badge on the fender. A 4x2 Super Cab Long Bed and a higher-GVWR 4x4 can both be F-250 XLT Lariat models but still call for different tire sizes or construction types, so matching the full configuration is essential.

8.75R16.5 is a radial tire size for the 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat. The R in the size designation identifies radial construction, and this size appears as a primary fitment on certain sub-models rather than as a bias-ply equivalent.

That distinction matters because the other primary sizes on this page are bias-ply truck tires. Owners should confirm that the truck's exact sub-model is one of the versions that used 8.75R16.5 and then verify the wheel setup, since staying with the right construction type is just as important here as choosing the right nominal size.

The answer depends on which primary fitment belongs on the truck's exact configuration. Many 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat sub-models use bias-ply sizes such as 800-16.5, 875-16.5, or 950-16.5, while certain versions also use 8.75R16.5 as a primary radial size.

A buyer focused on a traditional truck appearance may want to retain the bias-ply setup that matches the sub-model, while a truck already associated with 8.75R16.5 should be evaluated within that radial fitment. The safest path is to confirm the exact configuration and current wheel arrangement before changing construction type.

A conversion should start with the truck's exact sub-model and whether that configuration already used a primary radial size such as 8.75R16.5. Wheel diameter, wheel width, and the intended tire's load-carrying capability all need to be checked before treating a radial as an acceptable alternative.

Collector and work-oriented trucks often have had wheel, suspension, or ride-height changes over the years, so clearance at the fenders and steering components deserves attention as well. It also helps to inspect the existing wheels for condition and confirm that the truck's use matches the chosen tire's construction and service character.

Start with the truck's exact size and construction type, because this model can use several 16.5-inch fitments across different sub-models. The key choices are 800-16.5, 875-16.5, 950-16.5, and, on certain configurations, 8.75R16.5 radial.

Once the correct size is confirmed, compare the truck-oriented tire series, the actual wheel dimensions, and any stated load figures that apply to the intended size. A truck kept in a period-style bias-ply setup may call for a different selection approach than one already using a radial configuration tied to its original fitment range.

The available products for the 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat are from STA. Within the covered sizes, STA appears in several truck-focused series, including Super Transport, Traxion, and Transport Highway.

That makes the buying decision more about size, construction, tread series, and wheel compatibility than about comparing multiple brands. After the correct fitment is confirmed, look at which STA series is offered in that size and whether the truck is better served by a transport-oriented tread or a more traction-focused pattern.

The 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat is served here by STA Super Transport, STA Traxion, and STA Transport Highway, depending on the exact size. Those series appear across the bias-ply 16.5-inch truck sizes covered for this model.

Series choice becomes relevant after the correct size is locked in, since not every series appears in every fitment. An owner trying to preserve a traditional heavy-duty truck look may compare tread style and stated specifications within one size, while still keeping wheel width and the truck's intended use in view.

A period-style approach usually starts by keeping the truck in its proper primary size and, where applicable, its original fitment type between bias-ply and radial. On this model, that means matching the exact sub-model first, then choosing among sizes such as 800-16.5, 875-16.5, 950-16.5, or 8.75R16.5 where appropriate.

The available product mix leans toward traditional blackwall truck tires, which suits the visual character of an early-1980s heavy-duty pickup. For exact originality, it helps to compare the truck against marque references, old photos, or original paperwork, especially since appearance alone does not confirm the correct size or construction.

Construction changes the truck's visual character as well as its fitment path. Bias-ply sizes such as 800-16.5, 875-16.5, and 950-16.5 present the more traditional truck-tire look offered on many sub-models, while 8.75R16.5 represents a radial-format fitment used on certain configurations.

That difference matters on a restoration because the tire should match the truck's configuration, not just the owner's preferred appearance. A carefully restored F-250 XLT Lariat looks more convincing when the tire type aligns with the right sub-model and wheel setup rather than mixing a visually appealing tire with the wrong fitment.

Yes, modifications can change how a tire fits even when the nominal size looks correct. Aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension lifts, ride-height changes, or body modifications can all affect the way 16.5-inch truck tires sit on a 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat.

That is especially important on a model with several valid primary sizes across different GVWR and cab configurations. A truck that has been changed from stock should be checked for steering clearance, fender clearance, and wheel compatibility before a new tire is selected, particularly when moving toward a wider or heavier-duty fitment.

Before road use, inspect the wheels for damage or corrosion, confirm lug hardware condition, and make sure the tire size matches the truck's exact sub-model. It is also wise to check for suspension wear, steering looseness, and any signs that the current wheel or tire setup has been altered over time.

New tires cannot compensate for poor wheel condition or inadequate clearance. After installation, verify inflation, look for even seating on the rim, and turn the steering through its range if the truck is a front-drive-axle configuration. A short local drive followed by a second inspection can catch rubbing or air-loss issues early.

Collector-truck tires should be inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, unusual wear, and slow air loss, even when the truck is driven only occasionally. On a 1982 Ford Trucks F-250 XLT Lariat, proper inflation and periodic visual checks matter just as much as tread depth.

Storage conditions also play a big role in tire life. Keeping the truck away from prolonged sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and ozone sources helps protect the sidewalls, while moving the vehicle occasionally can reduce flat-spotting concerns. Any truck that has sat for an extended period deserves a close inspection before returning to regular road use.