Tire codes

[9echo]

Can anyone tell me what the code on the side of my 1948 Studebaker Champion tires means.
The tires are Firestone 404 G78/15 and the DOD code is VCVV TAV 034.
Thanks, 73, Jim

[StudeRich]

The letter series Tires (G78) were made back in the 1970's before P Metric Tire sizes, were usually Fiberglass Belted type, but were Bias Ply and this was before the modern date coding that stated in the 1990's, so that is most likely just a Factory (Plant I.D.) Code.

I would use them for "holder uppers" for a stored car, but not for driving. You want P205X75R15's which are way too big for a Champion, as are the old ones, but that is as small as 75's get unless you buy the outrageous priced Classic Car Tires. Maybe a P205X70R15 would be low enough (small enough Diameter).

[9echo]

How about 195X65R15?
I think this size is just a bit smaller than the original 550X15 that were original.
The rims on the car are 5", which makes me think the PO had upgraded the wheels
as well as the tires.
Thanks Rich,
73, Jim

[StudeRich]

IF, those are still available they may work. You could always go to a tire diameter chart and maybe find the size of the Coker 6.40X15 Classic repops or the 6.00X15 if they make them, then just get the modern size that comes the Closest, with such small tires and 5 in. wheels I would error on the Larger side, rather than smaller though. Remember the smaller the tire the faster the Engine turns at a given speed.