The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 came from an era when full-size American vans were expected to handle real passenger and cargo duty, often with chassis and weight ratings that mattered as much as trim or appearance. On a vehicle like this, tire selection is tied directly to load-oriented fitment rather than a one-size-fits-all replacement mindset. The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 uses bias-ply tires in either 800-16.5 or 875-16.5, both built around a 16.5-inch rim. Available choices stay within traditional blackwall truck-style offerings from STA across series such as Super Transport, Traxion, and Transport Highway. The key is matching the tire to the van's exact sub-model and weight-rated configuration before comparing series details.
Which Tire Size Is Right for The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350
The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 uses two primary tire sizes, and the correct one depends on the van's exact Voyager or Voyager Maxi configuration and GVWR pairing. Both sizes are bias-ply truck tires built for a 16.5-inch rim, so the first step is confirming the specific sub-model and wheel setup. Once that is settled, the decision shifts to choosing the right series within the proper size.
Fit(s): Voyager (w/3,600lb F.A.)(GVWR 7500) and Voyager (w/4,000lb F.A.)(GVWR 7500)
Construction: Bias Ply|Rim: 16.5 in
An 800-16.5 tire uses the older numeric bias-ply sizing system, where the 800 designation reflects an approximate 8.00-inch nominal section width and the 16.5 identifies the wheel diameter. On the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350, this is a bias-ply truck fitment suited to specific Voyager configurations rather than every version of the van. In this size, STA offers blackwall choices in the Super Transport and Traxion series, both aimed at truck-duty use. This size is the right one to evaluate only after confirming that the van's sub-model and chassis rating call for 800-16.5.
An 875-16.5 tire follows the same numeric bias-ply format, with 875 indicating an approximate 8.75-inch nominal section width and 16.5 denoting the wheel diameter. For the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350, this size appears on heavier-rated Voyager and Voyager Maxi applications, making it an important distinction from the narrower 800-16.5 fitment. Available blackwall STA options include the Traxion and Transport Highway series, both positioned within traditional truck-tire styling. This is the size to consider when the van's specific configuration requires the larger load-oriented fitment on a 16.5-inch wheel.
Sub-model fitment matters on the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 because tire size changes with the van's Voyager or Voyager Maxi configuration and its GVWR pairing. Before choosing a tire, confirm the exact sub-model so the correct 16.5-inch bias-ply size is matched to the vehicle's intended load-rated setup.
This Voyager configuration uses the 800-16.5 bias-ply fitment rather than the larger 875-16.5 size. Tire selection here centers on choosing the proper blackwall truck-style option within that size and confirming the van still carries its correct 16.5-inch wheel setup.
This higher-GVWR Voyager application uses the larger 875-16.5 bias-ply tire. That makes sub-model identification especially important, because choosing within the correct size comes after confirming the van's heavier-rated configuration and wheel specification.
This Voyager version returns to the 800-16.5 bias-ply size even with the 4,000-pound front axle notation. The practical takeaway is that front axle description alone is not enough; the full sub-model and weight pairing should be checked before comparing available tire series.
This Voyager configuration uses 875-16.5 bias-ply tires on a 16.5-inch rim. Buyers looking at this sub-model should focus first on confirming that heavier fitment, then compare the available blackwall truck series within the correct size.
The Voyager Maxi with the 3,600-pound front axle uses the 875-16.5 bias-ply size. That means tire choice is less about deciding between sizes and more about selecting the appropriate truck-oriented series once the 16.5-inch wheel setup is verified.
This Voyager Maxi application also uses 875-16.5 bias-ply tires. Since the size remains the same across this Maxi fitment, the main decision becomes choosing among the available STA blackwall truck tires while confirming wheel condition and compatibility.
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 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 Tires for Sale
Available 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 tire choices stay within STA bias-ply truck offerings in 800-16.5 and 875-16.5. The comparison points are series selection, blackwall presentation, and size-specific rim-width and load-related specifications where they apply.
Owners of a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 usually need to sort out the correct tire size by sub-model first, then compare bias-ply truck options, wheel fitment, and road-use checks that matter on an older full-size van.
Tire Size & Fitment
What tire size fits a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 uses either 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 tires, both in bias-ply construction. The correct size depends on the exact Voyager or Voyager Maxi configuration, along with the GVWR pairing attached to that sub-model.
That means the first step is identifying the van exactly before choosing a tire. An 800-16.5 and an 875-16.5 are not the same fitment, even though both use a 16.5-inch rim, so the sub-model, wheel size, and overall vehicle setup should be confirmed before comparing available truck-tire series.
What size rim does a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 use?
The tire fitments used on the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 are built around a 16.5-inch rim diameter. Both primary tire sizes for this van, 800-16.5 and 875-16.5, share that same rim diameter.
Rim diameter is only one part of the check, though, especially on an older van that may have seen wheel changes over time. The actual wheel on the vehicle should still be measured and inspected so the chosen tire size, wheel width, and overall setup match the sub-model's intended fitment.
Do all 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 sub-models use the same tire size?
No. The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 uses more than one tire size across its covered sub-models. Some Voyager configurations use 800-16.5, while heavier-rated Voyager and Voyager Maxi versions use 875-16.5.
This is why a PB350 should not be treated as a single-size van for tire replacement. Checking the exact sub-model name, GVWR pairing, and current wheel setup helps narrow the search immediately and prevents choosing a tire simply because it fits the same general year, make, and model family.
Choosing the Right Tire
What should I consider when choosing a tire for a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
Start with the correct primary size for the van's exact configuration, since the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 uses either 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 in bias-ply construction. After size is settled, compare the available truck-oriented series within that size and make sure the tire matches the 16.5-inch wheel.
From there, selection becomes more about intended use and specification details than appearance changes, since the available options are blackwall tires. Wheel condition, size-specific rim-width compatibility, and any published load-related specifications deserve attention before putting an older work-oriented van back into regular road service.
What brands offer tires for the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
Tires for the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 are available from STA in both 800-16.5 and 875-16.5 sizes. The available products stay within bias-ply truck applications rather than branching into multiple brand families with different construction types.
Because the brand selection is focused, the meaningful comparison is between STA series rather than between competing manufacturers. That makes it more important to confirm the correct size first, then compare series character, wheel compatibility, and any load-related detail tied to the exact tire under consideration.
What tire series are available for the 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
The 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 is covered by STA truck-tire series including Super Transport, Traxion, and Transport Highway, depending on size. The 800-16.5 fitment includes Super Transport and Traxion, while 875-16.5 includes Traxion and Transport Highway.
Those series names matter because they help separate the available products once the correct size is identified. A buyer comparing tires for a PB350 should use the series as a way to sort options within the proper fitment, not as a substitute for confirming whether the van requires 800-16.5 or 875-16.5.
Restoration & Appearance
Which tire should I choose for a period-style 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
A period-style 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 starts with the correct original-format size and construction for the van's specific configuration: either 800-16.5 or 875-16.5 in bias-ply form. Keeping the proper bias-ply truck fitment preserves the visual character and utility-focused stance associated with this type of full-size van.
Since the available options are blackwall truck tires, the appearance decision is more about staying faithful to the van's working-era presentation than choosing decorative sidewall treatments. Exact originality questions should still be checked against vehicle-specific historical references if the goal is a highly detailed restoration rather than a general period-style result.
Does correct tire fitment matter for a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 restoration?
Yes, correct tire fitment matters on a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 restoration because this van does not use one universal size across all sub-models. The difference between 800-16.5 and 875-16.5 affects both the look of the vehicle and the way the finished restoration aligns with its intended chassis configuration.
Using the wrong size can alter the van's visual balance and move the restoration away from the proper load-oriented setup. Restorers should confirm the exact Voyager or Voyager Maxi application, keep the 16.5-inch wheel requirement in mind, and choose the tire only after the vehicle's actual wheels and stance are verified.
Fitment, Maintenance & Road Use
Can modifications affect tire fitment on a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350?
Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 even when the replacement tire is the correct original-format size. Aftermarket wheels, suspension changes, altered ride height, or body modifications can all change the clearance picture on an older full-size van.
A PB350 with non-original wheels should have its actual rim diameter and width checked before tires are selected. Steering clearance, wheelhouse space, and the relationship between the tire and suspension components are all worth confirming, especially when choosing between the narrower 800-16.5 and the wider 875-16.5 fitments.
What should I inspect before driving a 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 on new tires?
Before road use, inspect the wheels, valve stems, lug hardware, and general tire condition, then confirm the tires are the correct size for the van's exact sub-model. On an older 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350, the basic condition of the brakes, steering, and suspension also matters because those systems influence how the tires will behave in service.
Air pressure should be set appropriately for the tire being used, and the tires should be checked for any signs of damage or irregular seating after installation. A careful look for rubbing at full steering lock and under normal suspension movement is worthwhile before putting the van into regular local use or a longer drive.
How should tires on a collector 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 be maintained?
Tires on a collector 1983 Plymouth Vans PB350 should be inspected regularly for cracking, cuts, bulges, tread wear, and air loss, even if the van is driven only occasionally. Low-use collector vehicles often age their tires by time and storage conditions as much as by accumulated mileage.
Keeping the van stored away from prolonged sunlight, excess moisture, and ozone-producing equipment helps preserve tire condition. It is also smart to check inflation before each outing and give the tires a closer inspection before any longer trip, since an older full-size van places real demands on its load-carrying tire setup.
