What size tires are on a 1955 Chevy Bel Air?
Most 1955 Chevrolet Bel Airs rolled on 15-inch wheels with tire sizes typically in the 6.50-15 to 6.70-15 range. The exact size depended on the car’s trim level, optional wheels, and dealer specifications.
Original equipment tire sizes and wheel standards
In 1955, the Bel Air was equipped with 15-inch wheels as part of Chevrolet’s shift toward larger, more modern sizing for the era. The factory used several tire sizes depending on wheel width and available options, but the majority of Bel Airs with standard 15-inch rims left the showroom on tires in the 6.50-15 to 6.70-15 range.
Commonly observed sizes on 15-inch wheels included the following:
- 6.50-15
- 6.70-15
Note: Some cars equipped with alternative wheels or regional packages could show other sizes. If you are restoring a specific car, verify from the door placard or owner's manual for the exact recommendation.
How to verify the correct size for your car
To determine the correct tire size for a particular 1955 Bel Air, rely on primary references from the era and the car’s own documentation. The following checks help ensure accuracy for restoration or maintenance.
Where to look on the car
Look for the tire information placard on the driver's doorjamb or inside the glove compartment paperwork. This label lists the recommended tire sizes, inflation pressures, and the original tire specification for the vehicle.
What to check in the manuals
The 1955 Bel Air owner’s manual and sales literature typically show the original tire size options and the wheel size. For cars without an intact manual, service manuals from the era or catalogs from Chevrolet dealerships can provide the specifications.
Modern restoration options and fitment tips
Many restorations aim to preserve the original look while improving safety and handling with modern rubber. The most common approach for a 15-inch Bel Air is to use a modern radial tire that closely matches the original overall diameter. The following sizes are popular for 15-inch wheels on a 1955 Bel Air.
- 205/75R15 on 15x6-inch or 15x5-inch wheels
- 225/75R15 on 15x7-inch wheels (for wider rear or front wheels, depending on clearance)
Using modern radials will alter the overall diameter slightly compared with the original 6.50-15/6.70-15 tires, which can affect speedometer accuracy and gearing. If accuracy matters, adjust the speedometer or choose a tire size that yields a diameter close to the original, or consult a restoration specialist for gearing and odometer correction options.
Summary
In short, the 1955 Chevy Bel Air did not have a single uniform tire size. Most cars with the standard 15-inch wheels wore 6.50-15 or 6.70-15 tires, with variations based on trim and wheel choice. For modern restorations, many owners opt for 205/75R15 or 225/75R15 radial tires on appropriate wheel widths to maintain a period-correct look while improving safety and performance. Always verify the exact specification on the car’s placard or manual and consider speedometer and gearing implications when selecting tires.
