Looking for a set of new tires, but can't seem to find the same size I have now (185-80-13). Can anybody tell me if there is any hope getting some 13" tires that will fit my '66 Dart, or do I have to move up to a 14" rim before any real selection can be found?

Check out Summitracing.com - they have 185-80R13s with whitewalls and several other options.

I run Firestone FR380, size 175/80R13.

Inexpensive and durable.

Made in USA.

--Walt Jackson

Thanks for the replies guys. I do have mixed feelings about Summit carrying the correct tire (was hoping to get some new rims:)).

I think I'll still look for some wheels, anybody think I can get a set of the cop rally wheels for around $50/ea?

I'm pretty sure Wheel Vintiques sells new Rally wheels in 14" sizes. I think those would be terrific on your car. They are expensive, but a good value. Before they they started production of them again folks were getting huge prices for 14" rallys. If you cannot find them there, get back to me, , and I will look for them. I know I saw them while I was looking for my wheels just a week ago.
Sam

_________________

Thanks Sam.

I'm starting to notice that there aren't many inexpensive wheels with the small 5x4" bolt pattern. I think I'll just wait on wheels till I have the money to switch to the larger bolt pattern.

I wish you lived closer. The 14" small bolt pattern wheels with very good 195/75R14 tires are about to come off my '66 Barracuda as part of its race prep. I also have some cool wheel covers to go with. 3 have the Plymouth badge in the middle as pictured, the other is plain. These were in Chrysler option lists so they aren't a cheap aftermarket piece.

_________________
Joshua

I am sorry, but I forgot to mention that they are the small bolt pattern. I am pretty sure the wheels I saw had the 4" bolt pattern.

I'm sorry you are so far away. I would think the 14" steel wheels would not be that hard to track down at a place that deals in used wheels. I think I have at least one, and maybe two hanging around here.

Sam

_________________

Actually, I'm planning to roadtrip/move to the Skagit Valley area. So soon I will be closer.

Sam, ya I couldn't find any. All the wheels I want are 5x4.5".

How difficult to convert to the larger bolt pattern? What's involved? Likely hood of finding all the parts at a junkyard?

I converted my '66 Dart to large bolt pattern disc brakes and large pattern 7 1/4 years ago and converted my '67 Valiant, 72 Dart and a friend's '65 Dart. If you're lucky you can find most of the stuff in a wrecking yard, but it is getting more and more difficult all the time.

There is a large bolt pattern 7 1/4 up for grabs in Halsey, Oregon which is just off I-5 on your way North. The front disc brake stuff will be more expensive and will usually require significant investment to make it serviceable and safe. If you want the next step up in brakes, assuming you have 9" drums, I have 10" drums and everything needed from my '66 Barracuda. Of course you'd still have the small bolt pattern. If you wanted the rear end, front brakes and 14" wheels/tires from my Barracuda I'd make you a good deal.

_________________
Joshua

Going to the large bolt pattern suspension was the best upgrade I made. You will not be sorry. It is heavy, knuckle busting work, but not brain surgery. I call it blacksmithing on and auto. Take your time and go all the way through the suspension when you upgrade and it will be good for years to come. If you can find a Dart, Valiant, or Duster with disk brakes in 74-75-76 it will likely have the 7 1/4" big bolt rear, which saves a bunch of weight over the bigger rears, and has heavier bearings than the 4" 7 1/4" rear. A v-8 car of the same year might have the 8 1/4 big bolt which is what I have, but it is much heavier.

I think maybe the '73's had the big bolt pattern disks as well, but am not as sure about that. It seems to me I remember that year being some of each in production.

Sam

_________________

Thanks so much everybody. I think for now I'm going to forget about wheels and wait till I can swap the rear end and do the disk brake conversion in the front.

Joshua, I love good deals However, with the move I don't think I'll have enough spare money. I appreciate it though.

Josh,

Let me know if you're still interested in a set of rally 14" rims with the small bolt pattern that I could sell. The set is "driver" quality that just need fresh paint & trim rings.

_________________
'66 Dart Wagon 270, 225ci/904, Survivor!!
'68 Dart Hardtop, 383/727 & 3:91 gears