Wheels / Tires: 15" wheel for a '63 Avanti

[Dick LeRoux]

After finally getting the trunk open on my '63 Avanti, I find (no surprise) that there isn't a spare, jack, etc. I've had the regular 15" wheels powder coated in the exact correct color so now I'm on a search for a spare. What exact 15" wheel will work for a '63 Avanti? I'll get it powder coated in the correct color but I'd rather have a spare than use a can of the "fix-a-flat" Any advice would help.
Thanks

[Gunslinger]

You're going to have some trouble finding a correct Avanti rim...trying the usual Studebaker vendors is likely the best way. You should have an easier time finding a Ford or Mopar rim in the 4 1/2" bolt circle but they'll likely be 15" x 6" wide and the spare tire lid won't close flush with the trunk floor.

Unless you're a purist...which is certainly ok...the easier way is to find a space-saver spare with the correct bolt circle and overall height. I did that...I found a NOS space-saver on eBay and it cost $30 including shipping. I also purchased from Walmart a GM Goodwrench scissors jack and handle for less than $15. As I said...if you're not a purist this is a much less expensive way to go...plus you get additional storage space in the spare tire well.

[Alan]

This is one can of worms. Everybody has their own remedy. I have 2 different sizes of tires on my car. Neither will fit in the spare tire well. That wimpy little accordion, screw jack is a pain. I have used a Ford space saver spare and a small aluminum hydraulic jack, never had to use them. But then again I don't drive on dark and rainy nights.

[Gunslinger]

Amen, bro!

[StudeRich]

A reasonable replacement for the spare, special, Disc Brake compatible, Kelsey Hayes 5 Inch X 15 Wheel, would be the '63-'66 Lark/Hawk W/disc 4 1/2 Inch X 15 stock wheel.

That would be my choice to look correct and still be functionable, I don't think anyone is going to remove the Tire to measure it!

[studegary]

A reasonable replacement for the spare, special, Disc Brake compatible, Kelsey Hayes 5 Inch X 15 Wheel, would be the '63-'66 Lark/Hawk W/disc 4 1/2 Inch X 15 stock wheel.

That would be my choice to look correct and still be functionable, I don't think anyone is going to remove the Tire to measure it!

I have one of those, but I am sure that you can locate one MUCH closer to you.

[karterfred88]

Yikes--its seems everyone who has a part for someone else is always on the other side of the country. I think we all need to move to Indiana so we can easily swap parts!!

[StudeRich]

I am just "up the Road" (Interstate 5) all he has to do is PM me to pick up a wheel.

[GinettaG12P]

I have a white wheel/tire that was in the spare tire well of the 1963 Avanti I bought several months ago. The tire on it is an Atlas Plycron 6.85/15 (says it replaces 6.00/15) with a Goodyear recap on it. The tire is probably no good, but the rim is - I believe - original and shows only a few rust spots where paint has rubbed off. I will be coming to the swap meet in Kelso next month and I will bring the wheel/tire if you are interested. Tom 530-534-3309

[Alan]

Tom; Where is the Kelso Swap at and how big is it? And is it a Stude only or multi mark?

[GinettaG12P]

Hi Alan,

It is the Studebaker Drivers Club Pacific Can-Am Zone Meeting in Kelso, WA on August 28-30. I plan to bring some surplus Avanti and Studebaker parts to sell.

Tom

[Buzzard]

Hi Tom,
Great. I planned to attend and now I find there will parts there for sale. I may as well shoot myself now to save my wife the trouble.
See you all in Kelso.
Bill