1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota Tires

The 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota uses five primary tire sizes: 195/75R14, 205/75R15, 215/75R15, 195/75R15, and 235/75R15. All of them are radial sizes, but they do not apply across the entire Dakota line in the same way because fitment changes with 4x2 versus 4x4 configuration and GVWR.

The most important next step is matching the tire size to the truck's exact sub-model and current wheels. A Dakota fitted with 14-inch rims needs a different path than one on 15-inch rims, and some 4x4 and higher-GVWR trucks use different widths as well. Checking the tire placard, existing tire size, and actual wheel diameter will help narrow the correct fitment.

A 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota can use either a 14-inch or 15-inch rim, depending on the specific configuration. The 195/75R14 fitment is tied to a 14-inch wheel, while 205/75R15, 215/75R15, 195/75R15, and 235/75R15 are all built for 15-inch rims.

Rim diameter should be confirmed before anything else because a 14-inch tire cannot be mounted on a 15-inch wheel, and the reverse is just as true. Once diameter is confirmed, wheel width also matters because some available products call for different rim-width ranges. That becomes especially important if the truck has replacement wheels instead of its original setup.

The 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota has more than one tire size because the line includes different 4x2 and 4x4 configurations along with multiple GVWR ratings. Those changes affect which radial size is appropriate, so the Dakota range includes both 14-inch and 15-inch wheel fitments and several section widths.

That means tire shopping should start with the exact sub-model rather than the Dakota name alone. A lighter-duty 4x2 can follow a different size path than a heavier-rated truck or a 4x4, even within the same trim family. Matching the truck's configuration first prevents choosing a tire that is correct for another Dakota but not for the one in front of you.

Start with the correct primary tire size for the truck's exact sub-model, then confirm the wheel diameter and width. From there, compare construction, sidewall style, series, and product specifications such as max load capacity at the stated pressure, especially if the Dakota is used for more than occasional cruising.

Appearance can matter just as much as sizing on an older pickup because available choices range from narrow whitewalls and wide whitewalls to goldline, redline, and raised white letter truck tires in some sizes. A lighter-duty restored street truck may call for a different presentation than a utility-minded 4x4, so intended use should shape the final decision.

Sidewall styles for 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota tires vary by size and include narrow whitewall, wide whitewall, goldline, redline, RBL, and RWL. Not every style appears in every size, so the available sidewall choices depend on the exact fitment being used on the truck.

That variety gives Dakota owners room to shape the truck's presentation without stepping outside the correct size range. A traditional whitewall can suit a more restoration-minded street truck, while an RWL or RBL tire may better fit a utility or 4x4 look. Once the correct size is confirmed, sidewall treatment becomes one of the easiest ways to personalize the final result.

Tires for the 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota are available from BFGoodrich, American Classic, Coker Classic, Tornel, Maxxis, and Travelstar. Brand availability changes by size, so some fitments have a broader selection of series and sidewall treatments than others.

The practical difference for the buyer is not just the brand name but the combination of size coverage, rim-width specification, load rating at stated pressure, and sidewall appearance. Comparing those details within the correct tire size is more useful than choosing by brand alone. That approach helps keep the decision centered on fitment, intended use, and the look wanted for the truck.

A period-style 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota tire choice starts with the truck's correct radial size, because this model year uses modern metric radial fitments rather than older bias-ply sizing. From there, many owners gravitate toward whitewall radial options, since several of the available sizes offer narrow and wide whitewall treatments.

The best period-style approach depends on how the truck is being presented. A cleaner street-oriented Dakota may suit a traditional whitewall, while a 4x4 or more utility-focused truck may look more natural on a truck-style radial. When exact originality matters, trim-specific photos, brochures, and marque references are worth checking before settling on a sidewall treatment.

On a restored 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota, tire construction is straightforward because the primary fitments are radial. That keeps the visual decision focused less on bias-ply versus radial shape and more on how the chosen radial is styled, including whitewall width, stripe treatment, or a more truck-oriented sidewall presentation.

Small appearance changes can alter the truck's character more than many owners expect. A wide whitewall can give a softer, more nostalgic look, while a raised white letter or all-terrain pattern pushes the Dakota toward a more purposeful stance. Staying inside the correct size range is the foundation, then the sidewall treatment can be used to fine-tune the final look.

Yes, modifications can affect tire fitment on a 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota even when the tire size seems close to stock. Aftermarket wheels, different wheel widths, suspension changes, ride-height changes, and brake or hub updates can all change how much room the tire has at the fender, steering components, and suspension.

That matters most on Dakota configurations that already have more than one primary tire size in use. A truck with replacement 15-inch wheels may no longer match the assumptions tied to its original setup, so wheel width and tire clearance should be checked carefully. Turning clearance up front and suspension movement under load are both worth verifying before regular road use.

Before driving a 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota on new tires, inspect the wheels for correct diameter and condition, make sure lug hardware is appropriate, and confirm the tires are inflated for the intended use. It also helps to check for rubbing at full steering lock and to look over suspension and steering components for looseness or wear.

A short initial road test can reveal vibrations, pull, or clearance issues before the truck is driven farther. After that first drive, recheck pressure and look for any signs of contact inside the wheel wells. Older pickups are often driven less frequently, so it is smart to keep watching for air loss, sidewall damage, and uneven tread wear as the tires settle in.

Tires on a collector 1987 Dodge Trucks Dakota should be kept properly inflated, inspected regularly, and protected from long periods of heat, direct sunlight, standing moisture, and ozone sources. Tread depth matters, but on low-use trucks, age-related cracking, flat spotting, and gradual air loss can become more important than tread wear alone.

Routine checks are especially helpful when the Dakota sits for extended periods between drives or shows. Looking closely at the sidewalls, valve stems, and tread surface before each outing can catch problems early. Moving the truck occasionally, keeping the wheels clean, and monitoring for uneven wear can also help preserve both road manners and the appearance of a well-kept pickup.