Radials Or Bias Ply Tires For Your Classic

1

• Faster response and better control • Easier steering effort • Better traction on wet roads• Smoother ride • Less road shock is felt • Longer tread life• Less wandering, straighter tracking • Much better puncture resistance • Better emergency braking • Less rolling resistance, better MPG

As you can see, radial tires are a smart decision. Anything else doesn’t make sense.

Some purists think they want bias ply tires on their classic carbecause they look like the original style tires. Just hold on.Unless you don’t intend to drive the car (except maybe to anoccasional show near home), you should be driving on radials.Why? Because they’re much safer. Let’s face it, you’ve got alot rolling on those tires. I’m not just talking about your invest-ment, but the safety of you and your family.

Radial tires respond much better in an emergency, and that’s

critical with all the cars on the road today. In fact, radials justmay save your life. In a quick maneuver, the tire tread stays infull contact the road because of the tire’s construction, givingyou maximum control. The radial’s sidewalls can flex, which iswhat keeps the rubber in contact with the road surface. Biasplies can’t do that, so they inherently handle poorly, and in anemergency, you can easily lose control of the car. Here’s a listof advantages over bias ply tires. You can decide for yourselfif they belong on your car.

Radials Or Bias Ply Tires For Your ClassicRadials Or Bias Ply Tires For Your Classic

If you have your car serviced and the tires have to be removed forany reason, be sure you are there to supervise how they are han-dled. Chemical agents such as oils and grease can affect the whiterubber to cause permanent problems. And guess what will causestaining of whitewalls? Stacking tires with the black side of one tireagainst the white sidewall of another! Remember what I said abouthow chemicals from black rubber will leach into white rubber?Well, there is no protective barrier on the outside of the white rub-ber, so if the tires are stacked one on another, or even leanedagainst one another, it can happen very fast. It looks like a brownstain — and it’s permanent. All the cleaning agents in the worldwon’t get rid of it.

What it means is that you should never leave your whitewall tiresunattended in a service shop. They might get moved and stacked.

Also, be sure to tell the service technicians right up front not totouch the whitewall itself with greasy, dirty hands!

And speaking of ruining whitewall tires, right here is the perfectplace to mention how NOT to clean your whitewalls. If you wantto ruin them over time, one of the best ways is to use cleaners thatcontain bleach. Yep...whitewall cleaner. Now you’re probably think-ing “But I’ve always used whitewall cleaner.” Yes, it gets them cleanalright, but what you will notice over time is that the whitewallsstart to get dried out and lose that nice “smooth and shiney” sur-face quality (which also makes them easy to clean). If your white-walls are dried out already, that’s probably why. Instead of white-wall cleaner, use a soap pad or a scrubby sponge with a cleaningagent like 409, Simple Green, etc. And never use tire coatings onthe whitewall. They can cause discoloration, too.

What Ruins Whitewall TiresWhat Ruins Whitewall Tires

Why whitewalls eventually lose their whiteness and start to lookyellow is no mystery. It happens because the chemicals from theblack rubber eventually leach into the whitewall rubber.Then, overtime, those chemicals will bleed rightthrough to the surface of the softerwhite rubber, where light and air turnthem yellow over their entire surface.

But I have an answer to that problem.A few years back, I came up with away to keep all that from happening.It involves a white rubber formula thatI developed myself, and now, that for-mula is a closely guarded secret (likethat famous fried chicken recipe).Today, our whitewall material is actu-ally made up of three layers, not justone.

The bottom layer is black rubber for maximum adhesion to thetire’s sidewall. It’s the exact same rubber formulation they use tomake truck retreads — very strong stuff. That’s because “like

materials” bond best. In the middleis a special butyl barrier layer. Thebutyl layer blocks the staining chem-icals that will try to come throughfrom the back. Nothing can passthrough this layer. The white “face”layer itself is made up of my ownwhite rubber formula. This is whyDiamond Back claims its whitewallsare whiter, and that they will alsostay whiter. It’s not an empty claim,and I don’t take it lightly — and nei-ther should you. I just wanted youto know how we can make thatclaim in our marketing and advertis-ing. I say it because it’s true.

When they leave, they look quite a bit different thanwhen they arrived from the major manufacturer.

Why Diamond Back Whitewalls Don’t Turn YellowWhy Diamond Back Whitewalls Don’t Turn Yellow

Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com

2

A Fourth-Generation Family BusinessA Fourth-Generation Family Business

Clif, Son Cooper, Daughter Tab, Son


In July of 2013, Diamond Back will celebrate 15 years inour current location in Conway, SC. We have alwaysapproached the classic tire market in a different wayfrom the other companies that sell tires for this market.Diamond Back has always used modern tires which meetall current DOT standards and are built in the world’sbest factories, utilizing all of the latest in tire buildingtechnology.

We see the future of the classic tire market as demand-ing... more driving, more group tours and we recognizethe proliferation of parts to transform these older carsinto serious driving machines. What we don’t see is aclassic tire market that is keeping pace with the increas-ing performance demands. We see few, if any, new prod-ucts being developed. We don’t see the technologicaladvances necessary to keep pace with the marketdemands. It’s our belief that if you become complacent,someone will pass you by and at this point, DiamondBack is leading the pack.

For our 2013 catalog, we have amassed our best productofferings yet, tires built by the major manufacturers in theindustries most technologically advanced factories.Weare also going a step further by launching a new productthat will revolutionize the classic tire market. We arevery excited to be introducing the Auburn DeluxeRadial. The Auburn Deluxe is the culmination of fiveyears of development. The Auburn will start by offering

15” and 16” sizes, built in new molds, giving you that 50’sbias ply look with the performance of a modern radial.You can view the Auburn on page 22.

We are also going to bring back four major 14” sizeswith the correct dimensions. You may not realize thatcurrent 14” sizes are too small. For example, the750x14 which is 27” tall is replaced by a 205/75R14,which is only 26” tall. The 800x14 is 27.5” tall and isreplaced by a 215/75R14, which is only 26.7” tall. The215/75R14 is the largest 14” tire built today and for theowners of Chryslers, Pontiacs and others that use an850x14 (28” tall) or a 885x14 (28.4” tall), help is on theway! These tires should be ready by late 2013 and willbe produced in the correct dimensions.

As you view this catalog, you will see that DiamondBack has more sizes available than all of the competitioncombined. You will also see that we have the ability tocustom make various whitewall widths for differentapplications. If you don’t find it, give us a call. There’s somuch we can do that there’s no way to list it all. Wewelcome special designs or one off applications.

Thank you for your interest in Diamond Back Classics.We are committed to quality, customer service and thedrive to remain on the cutting edge of technology andwill continue to bring the very best products to themarket and, as always, at the best prices.

3

The Tread Act of 2000 requires tire manufacturers topermanently mold certain information on both tiresidewalls. This information is the same on both side-walls. Because of our process, this information isremoved from one sidewall only. This informationincludes tire size, maximum pressure recommenda-tions, size, brand, the word “radial” and the manufac-turers DOT number.

The National Highway & Safety Administration(NHTSA) has allowed us to continue to produce tiresfor vehicles built prior to 1976. That Federal standardis FMVSS 109. All tires for vehicles manufactured inor after 1976 must comply with standard FMVSS139,which requires different labeling. This standard ismore stringent on performance testing; meaning tiresare subjected to higher speeds to achieve certifica-

tion. Ironically, Diamond Back, because of its process,uses only tires that are certified to the higher perform-ance standards of FMVSS139. The majority of tiressold by the competition cannot make this claim. Iftheir product description specifies “for pre 1976 vehi-cles”, those tires are labeled and tested under the lessstrenuous standards of FMVSS109. Remember, all tiresthat Diamond Back uses have been certified under thenew, more stringent performance and endurance stan-dards. *FMVSS139 (Tread Act of 2000). Our finishedproducts have been submitted and passed 100% forendurance and speed testing for the latest standard.

Unfortunately, we can not knowingly accept orders forvehicles built after 1976. Why? It’s a labeling issue.Please specify the intended vehicle fitment, includingyear manufactured, make and model when ordering.

I don't have numerous salesmen sitting in cubicles takingorders. Some customers know exactly what they needand others don't. Together Richard and James have 28years of experience selling Diamond Back tires. They

All Diamond Backs are made to order because there isno inventory. Finished tires stored in a warehouse aresusceptible to getting dusty, dirty or getting scuffed.Our whitewalls are brilliant white and built to stay thatway. Please order early to allow us time to build your

Reminder - Order EarlyReminder - Order Early

[email protected]

ext. 102

[email protected]

ext. 101

Our Knowledgeable Sales StaffOur Knowledgeable Sales Staff

* Important Consumer Information* Important Consumer Information


Removing Tire Blue ProtectantRemoving Tire Blue ProtectantThe blue protectant that we use on our tires is watersoluble. In order to remove it, simply soak the tire withwater and let it sit for a few minutes. All blue should

know cars and they understand my product and they'lltreat you with courtesy and give you the correct informa-tion. If you have trouble getting through, don't give up. It'llbe worth the wait.

dissolve. If some blue is left, use a wet sponge andscrub. No cleaning solution is needed and in fact, itcould create more difficulties.

tires. Average delivery time is 2-3 weeks. Diamond Backsare worth the wait! Just ask someone who has them orlog on to the many chat rooms available. Ask about ourtires!

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INDEXINDEXImportant Consumer Information ......................3Diamond Back II

Wide White ..............................................................5Red Lines ....................................................................6Wider & Extra Wide Whites ..........................6

Diamond Back AS4Whitewalls ..................................................................7Wider & Extra Wide Whites ..........................8

Diamond Back MXMichelin X Brand ..................................................9

Diamond Back IIIBFG Radial T/A Brand ........................................10

Specialty Sidewall Designs60s-70s Cars ............................................................11

Smaller Whitewalls ......................................................12Raised Beauty Bar ........................................................12Diamond Back Fury ....................................................13-14Mastercraft Brand ........................................................14Extra Load Trailer Tires ..............................................15Smaller 15” Fronts

135R15, 145R15, 165R15 ................................16Diamond Back HR

“H” Speed Rated 15” Sizes ..............................1717” Rear Sizes ..........................................................17

Diamond Back LS570 Series/60 Series Sizes ..................................18

13” Sizes ............................................................................1913” Mercedes Sizes......................................................19 Smoothies..........................................................................20Drag Radial ......................................................................211965-1966 T-Bird Special..........................................21700R15................................................................................21New Auburn Deluxe..................................................22Small 16” 195/80R16..................................................2316” Sizes ............................................................................24750R17 Michelin............................................................24Large 16”-17”-18” Sizes ............................................2517” Falken Sizes..............................................................2617” Nitto Sizes................................................................2718” Nitto Sizes................................................................2818” Falken Sizes..............................................................2920” Sizes ............................................................................30Cleaning / Air Pressure Tips....................................31Size Reference Chart. ................................................32General Information....................................................33-36Warranty Information ................................................35Rims & Radial Tires

Do radials cause rim stress? ........................37Load Index / Size Locator........................................38

Imperial Speedster Photo Courtesy of Pfaff Designs

When The Best Demand The Best... They Call Diamond BackWhen The Best Demand The Best... They Call Diamond Back

We Use Only DOT Approved TiresWe Use Only DOT Approved Tires


Cover Photos Courtesy of Peter Torres & Patrick Mescher

5

Diamond Back IIDiamond Back IIThe Best Tire...The Best Look...

The Best Performance...

185/75R14 25 24 5 7.1 4 - 52 $214

195/75R14 25.5 22 5.2 7.6 5 - 62 $216

205/75R14 26.1 22 5.4 7.8 5 - 7 $224

215/75R14 26.7 22 5.6 8.3 5 - 7 $229

195/70R14 24.8 24 5.4 7.9 5 - 62 $218

205/70R14 25.2 22 5.6 8.3 5 - 7 $219

215/70R14 25.8 22 6 8.8 52 - 7 $219

185/60R15 23.8 2 5.7 8.9 52 - 7 $219

195/60R15 24.2 2 6.3 7.7 52 - 7 $224

205/60R15 24.7 2 6.5 8.3 52 - 7 $226

215/60R15 5.1 24 6.8 8.6 6 - 72 $229

225/60R15 25.6 24 6 8.7 52 - 7 $234

185/65R15 24.4 2 5.5 7.3 5 - 62 $214

195/65R15 24.9 24 5.7 7.8 5 - 7 $219

205/65R15 25.4 24 5.8 7.9 5 - 7 $219

215/65R15 26 24 6 8.7 52 - 7 $229

205/70R15 26.3 22 5.6 8.2 5 - 7 $224

215/70R15 26.9 22 6 8.4 52 - 7 $229

225/70R15 27.3 22 6.4 9 6 - 72 $234

205/75R15 27.1 22 5.3 7.8 5 - 7 $224

215/75R15 27.7 2d 5.5 8.4 5 - 7 $229

225/75R15 28.3 2w 5.8 8.7 52 - 72 $239

235/75R15 29 3 6.2 9.1 52 - 8 $239

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

TH

TREA

D

WID

THSE

CTION

WID

TH

RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

E

Toyo has one of America’s newest andmost modern facilities in White, GA.Most sizes are built in the US but somesizes are still built in other facilities.Toyo is completing a large expansion ofits US facility so that it can accommo-date most of the sizes listed.

With its UTQG rating of 640AB, thistire is the highest rated classic tire inthe industry. You should be cautious oftires with a B traction rating (B beingthe first letter). The new DiamondBack II has a rating of 44 psi whichmakes it an excellent candidate forwider whites and extra wide whites.With its solid shoulder ribs and non-aggressive tread style, it is, by far, thebest looking tire available and it’s pricedlower than competitive products.

More Diamond Back II Red Lines - Next Page

All markings including brand nameare removed above the whitewall for

that nice clean look.

Wider WhitesExtra Wide Whites Next Page

Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com*Intended for pre 1976 vehicles only. See page 3 for more information.

NEW

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Diamond Back IIDiamond Back II

205/75R14 2w $234

215/75R14 2w $239

205/70R15 2w $234

215/70R15 2w $239

205/75R15 2w $234

215/75R15 3 $239

225/75R15 3 $249

235/75R15 32 $249

SIZE

PRIC

EW

IDER

WHITE

Specs on page 5

215/75R14 3 $249

215/70R15 3 $249

205/75R15 3 $244

215/75R15 34 $249

225/75R15 3s $259

235/75R15 3w $259

SIZE

PRIC

EEXTR

A

WID

ER

WHITE

The Diamond Back II is speed ratedand designed to run at higher air pres-sure. When air pressure is increased, itwill decrease sidewall flex. If properpressure is not maintained, white walledges can be damaged. When runningwider white wall tires, it is very impor-tant to maintain a higher air pressure.

Tires that carry more pressure performbetter, have a quicker steeringresponse, have better heat dissipationand less rolling resistance.

Red LineAll sizes, specs page 5

Wider WhitewallsUse 40-44 psi

Wider Whites - Extra Wide WhitesWider Whites - Extra Wide Whites

205/75R14 26.1 5.4 7.8 5 - 7 $224

215/75R14 26.7 5.6 8.3 5 - 7 $229

195/70R14 24.8 5.4 7.9 5 - 62 $218

205/70R14 25.2 5.6 8.3 5 - 7 $219

215/70R14 25.8 6 8.8 52 - 7 $219

225/60R15 26.8 6 8.7 52 - 7 $234

195/65R15 24.9 5.7 7.8 5 - 7 $219

205/65R15 25.4 5.8 7.9 5 - 7 $219

215/65R15 26 6 8.7 52 - 7 $229

205/70R15 26.3 5.6 8.2 5 - 7 $224

215/70R15 26.9 6 8.4 52 - 7 $229

225/70R15 27.3 6.4 9 6 - 72 $234

205/75R15 27.1 5.3 7.8 5 - 7 $224

215/75R15 27.7 5.5 8.4 5 - 7 $229

225/75R15 28.3 5.8 8.7 6 - 72 $239

235/75R15 29 6.2 9.1 6 - 8 $239

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

TREA

D

WID

THSE

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RECOMMEN

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IDTH

PRIC

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7

175/70R14 23.6 2 4.5 6.9 42 - 6 $189

185/70R14 24.3 24 5.2 7.4 42 - 6 $194

195/70R14 24.8 24 5.4 7.8 5 - 62 $199

205/70R14 25.6 22 5.6 8.2 5 - 7 $199

215/70R14 25.9 22 6 8.7 5 - 7 $209

185/75R14 25 24 5 7.2 42 - 6 $196

195/75R14 25.5 22 5.3 7.7 5-62 $199

205/75R14 26.1 22 5.5 8 5 - 7 $204

215/75R14 26.7 22 5.5 8.5 5 - 7 $214

215/75R14 2 w Wider Whitewall $224

195/60R15 24.2 2 6.3 7.9 52 - 7 $196

205/60R15 24.7 2 6.5 8.2 52 - 7 $199

215/60R15 25.2 24 6.8 8.7 6 - 72 $209

195/65R15 25 24 5.4 7.9 52 - 7 $198

205/65R15 25.5 24 5.6 8.2 5 - 72 $209

215/65R15 26 24 6 8.7 6 - 72 $214

205/75R15 27.1 22 5.6 8 5 - 7 $209


215/75R15 27.7 2d 5.8 8.5 52 - 7 $214

215/75R15 3 Wider Whitewall $224

225/75R15 28.3 2 w 6.2 8.8 5 - 72 $224


235/75R15 29 3 6.5 9.3 6 - 8 $224


205/70R15 26.3 22 5.6 8.2 5 - 7 $209

215/70R15 26.9 22 6 8.7 6 - 72 $214


225/70R15 27.4 22 6.5 9 6 - 72 $219


235/70R15 28 2w 6.8 9.4 6 - 8 $224


TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

TH

TREA

D

WID

THSE

CTION

WID

TH

RECOMMEN

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RIMW

IDTH

Diamond Back AS4

PRIC

E

Diamond Back AS4

“T” Speed Rated118 MPH

Brand: KingstarManufacturer: Hankook

* UTQG 520 A A

Attractively Simple Non Aggressive Tread StyleAttractively Simple Non Aggressive Tread Style

Our Best Seller for 2008 and 2009 is Back!Our Best Seller for 2008 and 2009 is Back!

Touring Class

The Highest Rated Whitewall In The Industry

Δ 225/70R15235/70R15GT Radial

Tread Pattern

Importance of UTQG RatingsThe first three numbers indicate tread wear. Figuresabove 500 indicate approximately 60,000 miles.

The first letter is the traction rating or the tire's abilityto stop. Diamond Back does not sell any product withless than an "A" rating. All whitewalls sold by ourcompetitors have B traction ratings.

Traction ratings should be an important consideration.

The second letter is the tire’s ability to dissipate heat.The AS4 is one the few tires that carries an A rating.Heat build up is a tire’s worst enemy.

oo

oooo

Δ

Δ

0 = Extra Load

Δ

Δ


8

Extra Wide WhitesExtra Wide WhitesA Diamond Back ExclusiveA Diamond Back Exclusive

Diamond Back AS4Diamond Back AS4

205/65R15 2 2 $219

215/65R15 2 2 $224

205/70R15 2 w $219

215/70R15 3 $234

225/70R15 3 $239

235/70R15 3 4 $244

TIRE SIZ

E

WHITE

WALL

WID

TH

PRIC

E

205/75R14 2 w $214

215/75R14 3 $234

TIRE SIZ

E

WHITE

WALL

WID

TH

PRIC

E

205/75R15 3 $229

215/75R15 3 4 $234

225/75R15 3 s $244

235/75R15 3 w $244

The Diamond Back AS4 is speed rated and designed to runat higher air pressure. When air pressure is increased it willdecrease sidewall flex. If proper pressure is not maintained,white wall edges can be damaged. When running widerwhite wall tires, it is very important to maintain a higher airpressure. We recomment 40-44 psi.

Tires that carry more pressure perform better, have a quickersteering response, have better heat dissipation and lessrolling resistance. The AS4 is "A" rated for traction and tem-perature resistance which is important because heat build upis a tire's worst enemy.

Hankook is the world's sixth largest rubber company withplants in Korea, China, and Europe.It's the world's fastestgrowing rubber company and their products are world class.Hankook has announced plans to build a US factory startingin 2013.

0 = Extra Load

235/75R15 with 3w" whitewall

Compare Before You Buy• Check Prices• Compare Quality - check ratings• Visit online forums or

chat rooms and ask for opinions

Δ

ΔΔ = GT Radial - Slightly Different Tread

oo

NEW


*Intended for pre 1976 vehicles only. See page 3 for more information.

1949 Mercury "PHOENIX" owner: Don and Debbie Wallin

9

The Ultimate Classic TireThe Ultimate Classic TireDiamond Back MXDiamond Back MX

205/70R15 26.1 22 6.2 8.2 5 - 7 $244

205/75R15 26.8 22 6.2 8 5 - 7 $244205/75R15 2w Wider Whitewall $254215/70R15 26.6 22 6.8 8.7 52 - 7 $259215/70R15 2w Wider Whitewall $269

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

TH

TREA

D

WID

THSE

CTION

WID

TH

RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

E

LIMITED SIZES - LIMITED AVAILABILITY

Don’t Forget Extended Warranty Only $7.50 Per Tire

Diamond Back Classics is not associated with MichelinNorth America. All warranties with Michelin are voidedand Diamond Back Classics is solely responsible for allwarranties.UTQG

740 A B

Brand Used For This Modification - Michelin X

Michelin Quality and PricedLess Than the Competition

The Tire of Choice For...

• Early Corvettes• Mid Year Corvettes• 1968-72 Corvettes• 1955-56 T-Birds• Triumph TR-6• Jaguar Using 640R15 and 185R15

MichelinDefender



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Red Line or Wide WhiteFor Muscle Cars and Street Rods that Demand the Best!

Diamond Back IIIDiamond Back IIIAmerica’s Favorite Performance TireYou Asked For It - Now Available In Many Sizes

America’s Favorite Performance TireYou Asked For It - Now Available In Many Sizes

Brand used for this modificationBF Goodrich Radial T/A

UTQG 440 AB

Smaller whitewallwidths available

on request

205/70R14 25.4 22 6.5 8.2 5 - 7 $219

215/70R14 25.8 22 7 8.7 52 - 7 $229225/70R14 26.5 22 7.2 9 52 - 7 $239225/70R14 2 w WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $249225/60R14 24.7 22 7.2 9 6 - 8 $249235/60R14 25.1 22 8 9.5 62 - 82 $249245/60R14 25.6 22 8 9.8 7 - 82 $259215/70R15 26.9 2 2 7 8.7 52 - 7 $234215/70R15 2w WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $244 225/70R15 27.4 2 2 7.2 9 6 - 72 $244

225/70R15 2 w WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $254235/70R15 28 2w 7.6 9.5 6 - 8 $254

235/70R15 3 WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $264255/70R15 29.1 3 8.2 10.2 62 - 82 $259255/70R15 32 WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $269

215/65R15 26 24 6.8 8.7 6 - 72 $244215/65R15 22 WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $254

195/60R15 24.2 2 6.2 7.9 5 - 7 $229205/60R15 24.7 2 6.5 8.2 52 - 72 $234

215/60R15 25.2 24 7 8.7 6-72 $234225/60R15 25.6 24 7.2 9 6 - 8 $244

235/60R15 26.1 24 7.6 9.5 6 - 8 $254235/60R15 22 WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $264

245/60R15 26.6 22 8 9.8 7 - 82 $259255/60R15 26.8 22 8.2 10.2 7 - 9 $264255/60R15 2w WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $274275/60R15 28 2w 9 11 7 - 9 $274275/60R15 3 WWiiddeerr WWhhiittee $284

295/50R15 26.7 22 10 12.2 7 - 9 $289

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

TH

TREA

D

WID

THSE

CTION

WID

TH

RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

E

BF Goodrich is manufactured by Michelin North America.All warranties with Michelin are voided with the addition

of a redline or whitewall. Diamond Back Classics isresponsible for any warranty issues.

Available in

Gold and

Blue Line

This is not a BFG Silvertown. Δ = Future Availability Uncertain

Δ

Δ



StyleA

StyleB

235/75R15 Style A-BDiamond Back II page 5 $254

Diamond Back AS4 page 7 $244

Cadillac Fitments1962-1964 1”Wide1967-1970 Style A1971-1974 Style B1975-1976 2”Wide1977-1978 1.6”Wide

For 60s - 70s Cars

3-Stripe235/75R15

1965-1966 CadillacDiamond Back II $264

page 5

Diamond Back AS4 $254page 7

White Stripe-All Sizes

Specialty Wall DesignsSpecialty Wall Designs

11 Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com

Photo Courtesy of George Stump


12

Smaller WhitewallsSmaller Whitewalls

1.6”White 1”White

The last year for the wide-whitewallwas1962. THE BIG THREE changedto the new whitewall standard 1”wide spaced 1” from the edge of therim.We can reproduce this size orany specialty width you need.

See DB AS4 page 7

DB II page 5

Catalog Prices

SpecialRequest

or Design

We have the ability tocreate special or one-offdesigns. If you can dream

it, we can design it.

• d” wide raised ring on the outer edge of the whitewall

• Add a touch of elegance

• Gives radials a bias ply look

• Available on most catalog items

• Price-Add $19.50 per tire

• Only from Diamond Back

Every Diamond Back Is...A Work of Art!

The Beauty BarThe Beauty Bar


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A Great Classic Tire ValueA Great Classic Tire ValueDiamond Back FuryDiamond Back Fury

UTQG440 A B

Manufacturer:Cooper

Many Big-Little Combinations!

185/75R14 25 24 4.5 7.2 42 - 6 $196

195/75R14 25.4 22 4.8 7.6 5 - 62 $199

195/65R15 25 24 5.6 7.8 52 - 7 $204

205/65R15 25.5 24 5.8 8.2 52 - 72 $209

205/70R15 26.3 22 5.3 8 5 - 62 $219215/70R15 26.9 22 5.4 8.7 5 - 7 $224

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

THTR

EAD

WID

TH

SECTIO

N

WID

TH RIM

WID

THPR

ICE

Brand:Maxxis

235/70R15 27.7 2 w 7.5 9.6 62-82 $2393 Wider Whitewall $249

265/75R15 30.4 3 8 10.65 6 - 9 $24432 Wider Whitewall $254

Front Sizes

Rear Sizes

Diamond Back Fury “M”Unusual Rear Sizes

255/70R15 29.3 3 10.6 62-82 $239

32 Wider White $249

265/70R15 29.8 3 11 7-9 $249

32 Wider White $259

10.50R15 30.3 3 10.9 7-9 $254

32 Wider White $264

275/60R15 28 2 w 11 72-92 $244

3 Wider White $254

295/50R15 26.6 22 12.3 8-10 $254

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

SECTIO

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WID

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Sport Fury photo next page.



14

Diamond Back Sport FuryDiamond Back Sport Fury

215/60R16 26.1 2 6.5 8.5 $224

235/70R16 28.7 2w 7.2 9.4 $249

3 Wider White $259

255/70R16 29.8 3 4 7.6 10.3 $254

32 Wider White $264

265/70R16 30.2 3 4 8 10.8 $259

32 Wider White $269

265/75R16 31.3 32 8 10.6 $264

3 w Wider White $274

245/70R17 30.3 3 7.3 10 $274

32 Wider White $284

265/70R17 31.3 34 8.3 10.6 $284

32 Wider White $294

TIRE SIZ

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16” and 17” Sport Fury

175/70R14 23.7 2 4.5 7 42 - 6 $196

185/75R14 25 24 4.5 7.2 42 - 6 $196

195/75R14 25.4 22 4.8 7.6 5 - 62 $199

185/70R14 24.3 24 4.7 6.8 42 - 6 $199205/75R15 27 22 5.1 8 5 - 7 $209

2w Wider Whitewall $219215/75R15 27.6 2d 5.3 8.5 5 - 7 $214

3 Wider Whitewall $224225/75R15 28.1 2w 5.6 8.8 52- 72 $224

3 Wider Whitewall $234235/75R15 28.7 3 6 9 6 - 8 $224

32 Wider Whitewall $234205/70R15 26.3 22 5.3 8 5 - 62 $219

215/70R15 26.9 22 5.4 8.7 5 - 7 $224225/70R15 273 22 6.2 8.9 6 - 7 $224

2w Wider Whitewall $234

TIRE SIZ

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ICE

MastercraftMastercraft



15

Another Diamond Back FirstAnother Diamond Back FirstExtra Load Trailer TiresExtra Load Trailer Tires

Smaller or larger whitewalls available to match your tow vehicle.Red lines are available

Load Range C 6 Ply RatedLoad Range D 8 Ply RatedLoad Range E 10 Ply Rated

Brand: MaxmilerManufacturer : GT Radial

175/80R13 C 24 24 5 7 1360 50 $194

205/75R14 C 26.1 22 6 8 1760 50 $209

215/75R14 C 26.7 22 6.2 8.5 1870 50 $214

205/75R15 C 27.1 22 6.4 8 1820 50 $214

205/75R15 D 27.1 22 6.4 8 2150 65 $224

225/75R15 D 28.3 2w 6.9 8.8 2540 65 $228

225/75R15 E 28.3 2w 6.9 8.8 2830 80 $234

235/85R16 E 31.7 32 7 9.3 3640 80 $259

TIRE SIZ

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AD

RANGE

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PRES

SURE

*Tread widths are wider than normal for better load distribution.

Every Diamond Back Is...

A Work of Art!

NEW



16

Diamond Back I - Small 15”Diamond Back I - Small 15”

165/80R15 25.5 24 4.5 6.5 $184

185/65R15 24.6 2 5.5 7.3 $194

195/65R15 25 24 5.8 7.8 $196

205/65R15 25.4 24 6 8.3 $198

185/60R15 23.8 1w 5.8 7.4 $196

195/60R15

205/60R15

215/60R15

225/60R15

TIRE SIZ

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Small 15” Falken Performance SizesFor matching combinations with larger 17” and 18” rear sizes see page 26

Short - Narrow Front TiresShort - Narrow Front Tires

Always run smaller tires at higher pressure.These tires are rated at 44 psi.

For V.W.’s - Rat Rods - Street Rod FrontsFor V.W.’s - Rat Rods - Street Rod Fronts

135R15 - 145R15 - 165R15Wide Whites - Black Smoothy

135R15 23.6 1w 3f 5.2 32-5 $196

Black Smoothy $156

Double-Sided White * $289

145R15 24 1w 4 5.7 32-42 $198

Black Smoothy $164

Double-Sided White $289

165R15 25.3 24 44 6.5 4-5 $189

Black Smoothy $159

Double-Sided White * $289

TIRE SIZ

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Load indexpage 36

• Great for Street Rod Fronts• Simple, Non-Aggressive Tread and Shoulder Style• “H” Speed Rated 130 MPH • UTQG 420 AA• Federal Brand

NEW

See pages 5-7

See pages 5-7

See pages 5-7

See Diamond Back II page 5

• For Smaller Cars • Lower Prices



Brand:Nankang * For pre-48 cars only

17

Diamond Back HR - 15” SizesDiamond Back HR - 15” Sizes130 MPH - “H” Speed Rated - 24 Hour Endurance

EXTREME PERFORMANCE!

Δ = 265/70R15 is “S” Speed Rated

205/70R15 26.3 22 5.5 8.3 5 - 7 $219

225/70R15 27.4 22 6.3 8.9 52 - 72 $2342w Wider White/Use 40 psi $244

235/70R15 28 2w 7 9.4 6 - 8 $2393 Wider White/Use 40 psi $249

265/70R15 29.6 3 8.4 10.7 7 - 9 $25432 Wider White/Use 40 psi $264

235/60R15 26 24 7 9.4 6 - 8 $24422 Wider White/Use 40 psi $254

245/60R15 26.6 22 7.3 9.7 6 - 8 $249

255/60R15 27.1 22 7.6 10.2 62 - 82 $2542w Wider White/Use 40 psi $264

275/60R15 28 2w 8 11 7 - 9 $2593 Wider White/Use 40 psi $269

295/50R15 26.6 22 10 12.3 8 - 10 $269

HEIGHT

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COMMENDED

RIMW

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Very Fast Muscle CarsVery Fast Street Rods

No Other 15” Tire Offers This Level Of Performance

Directional Tread ForEnhanced Performance

TIRE SIZ

E

UTQG 360 A A

Δ

17”Sizes

255/60R17 29.1 22 10 $279

275/60R17 30 2w 11 $284

285/60R17 30.6 2w111.3 $289

265/70R17 31.7 34 10.8 $284Brand: Maxxis

Limited Availability

Wider whites available on request.

HEIGHT

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CTION

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TIRE SIZ

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18

Diamond Back LS560-65-70 Series60-65-70 Series

225/70R14 26.3 22 7.2 8.9 6 - 72 $224

215/70R15 26.7 22 7 8.7 52 - 7 $224

225/70R15 27.4 22 7.2 8.7 6 - 72 $224

235/70R15 27.9 2w 7.6 9.5 6 - 8 $234

255/70R15 29 3 8.2 10.4 62 - 82 $239

215/65R15 26 24 6.8 8.4 6 - 72 $219

235/60R15 26.1 24 7.6 9.2 62 - 82 $229

255/60R15 27 22 8.2 9.7 7 - 9 $239

275/60R15 28 2w 8.9 10.7 72 - 92 $249

295/50R15 26.8 22 10.1 11.8 8 - 10 $259

TIRE SIZ

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RECOMMEN

DED

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Dual Reds Available All Sizes - Add $10 Per TireBrand:Turbo Tech - Grand Am - Grand Prix - Grand Spirit

Diamond Back LS5

WW

WID

TH

“T” Speed Rated UTQG 440 AB

Any warranty issues are handled by Diamond BackClassics. All warranties with Cooper tire are void.

Also available in wide white.

Warning-Muscle cars still using bias plytires should be driven with caution.!

Manufacturer :Cooper



19

640/700R13

Tread Width: 4.5"Height: 25.3"

Section Width: 7.2"

13” Vintage Mercedes13” Vintage Mercedes

The 640X13 is a European size - 24.7”.The640/700X13 at 25.3” is an excellent fitment formany classic Mercedes and many U.S. cars.

Early Mercedes' were equipped with a 2.75"white wall.

Blackwall $18424 White $2342w White $244

MercedesModels

180190200220

Brand: Vredestein Sprint ClassicBuilt in Europe for European Cars

550R16 Radial AvailableFor Model 170

155/80R13 22.8 2 3.7 6.2 $184TIR

E SIZE

HEIGHT

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Unfortunately, all 13” in older sizes -165/80R13, 175/80R13, and185/80R13, have been discontinuedby all manufacturers. 155/80R13 isstill available in limited numbers.175/70R13 and 185/70R13 are avail-able. Call for details.


20

• Most catalog sizes

• All lettering removed and sidewall polished to asmooth surface

• No material is removed from the sidewall

• No unwanted or inappropriate names

• Gives your tires a nice, clean look

• You are able to use a finish of your choice! You canchoose between flat, satin, semi-gloss or glossy. Pleasenote that all smoothies leave the factory with a satinfinish. You can go to your local retailer and purchasethe finish of your choice.

To determine the Smoothy price take the catalog price less $50 per tire.

Blackwall SmoothiesBlackwall SmoothiesTake the "Bla" out of Blackwall

Blackwalls don’t have to look boring. Our Smoothies TM

are the sharpest looking blackwalls ever... high perform-ance radials completely cleaned of all lettering.Thesesmooth-sidewall tires look absolutely great shined-upwithout all that distracting lettering on the sidewall. Ifdetailing is your thing, Smoothies TM are your tires. Theylook terrific on a rod or custom.

No more boring, unsightly black tires

For Pre 48 CarsOur smoothy processremoves all letteringfrom one tire sidewall.

Smoothies aredesigned for pre 1948cars. For cars after1948, Federal lawrequires that we leaveall required DOT infor-mation on the tire'ssidewall. This informa-tion will be located inthe lower bead are.

Photo Courtesy of Odd Rodd Creations, Builder Rusty Jackson



Special Design: 1965-1966 ThunderbirdsSpecial Design: 1965-1966 ThunderbirdsThis Red-White combination has the same

dimensions as the original equipment815x15 Firestone Deluxe Champion

215/75R15 Diamond Back II $229 Page 5Diamond Back AS4 $214 Page 7

Diamond Back Drag Radial - N SeriesDiamond Back Drag Radial - N SeriesStreet Legal - NITTO 555R - Red Line or Wide WhiteStreet Legal - NITTO 555R - Red Line or Wide White

“V” Speed Rated

275/50R15 25.75 22 11.2 9 w $279

275/60R15 27.75 2w 11.1 9 w $284

3 Wider White $294

325/50R15 28 2w 13.1 11w $299

3 Wider White $309

305/45R18 28.75 1w 12 10 $399

TIRE SIZ

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All Sizes Available In Blackwall Smoothy:Deduct $50

Special Size - 700R15 - Pre 1948 Luxury CarsSpecial Size - 700R15 - Pre 1948 Luxury CarsReplacement for : 700x15 800x15 820x15

Height - 29.4” Tread Width - 4.9”Cross Section - 7.7” Max Load - 2040 lbs.

• Great For Rat Rods• OE Size For Luxury Cars Thru 1947

• AAvvaaiillaabbllee IInn SSmmooootthhyy -- $$119944• Optional White Wall Widths

• Extra Ply Rated - No Ride Compromise

33"" -- $$225544 3322"" -- $$226644 33ww"" -- $$227744Looks Fantastic With Beauty Ring!



22

The New Auburn Deluxe RadialThe New Auburn Deluxe Radial

The complete 16” size range:

550R16 700R16600R16 750R16650R16

Arrivals will begin during the secondquarter of this year. Watch our web

site or call for updates.

15" sizes also arriving second quarter.

Auburn DeluxeRadial

You’ve asked for it... a modern radial with

bias-ply looks.

ComingVerySoon!



205/55R16 25 14 6.7 8.4 $214

215/55R16 25.5 12 7.7 8.5 $219*205/65R16 26.3 2 6 7.9 $219

24 Wider White $229

215/65R16 27.1 24 7 8.7 $219

205/60R16 25.4 12 6.2 8.1 $214

215/60R16 25.9 2 6.5 8.7 $214

225/60R16 26.4 2 6.8 9 $219

235/60R16 27.1 24 7.5 9.5 $224

TIRE SIZ

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Diamond Back 16” - Smaller EizesDiamond Back 16” - Smaller Sizes

Federal Brand

* Diamond Back II page 6

“H” Speed Rating - UTQG 420 AA

195/80R16Same dimensions of the 600X16

making this the perfect replacement size.

600R16 Replacement Size

• Diameter: 28”• Section Width: 7.7”

• Tread Width: 5”

22 ww”” oorr 33”” WWhhiitteewwaallllss:: $$225599

BBllaacckkwwaallll SSmmooootthhyy:: $$220099

23Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com


24

750R16215/85R16 (700R16)

225/75R16 29.3 34 6 8.7 $25432 Wider White $264

215/70R16 28 2w 6 8.7 $2543 Wider White $264

225/70R16 28.4 2w 6.6 9 $2643 Wider White $274

235/65R16 28 2w 8 9.6 $259235/75R16 29.7 3 6.9 9.3 $264

34 Wider White $274

TIRE SIZ

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16” Steel Belted Radials16” Steel Belted Radials

Tires Pictured Top of Page

Mirada - Built by Yokohama

215/75R16 28.7 2w 6.1 8.5 Hankook $259215/75R16 3 Wider White $269215/85R16 30.4 32 5.7 8.5 Falken $259215/85R16 3w Wider White $269750R16 31.9 3w 6 8.3 Cooper $279

Other Popular 16” Sizes

Matching 16"-17"-18" Mirada sizes see page 25

o = Replacement size for 650R16 Δ = Different Tread Style

225/75R16 (650R16)

MORE 16” SIZES

16” Diamond Back HR see page 17Speed Rated 130 mph

16” Sport Fury see page 14Diamond Back Fury see page 13

UTQG 640 A B

TIRE SIZ

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Brand: Michelin Height 33.5” Tread Width 5”Blackwalls $399 4”Whitewall $479

Size Discontinued by Michelin-Call Now due to limited supply!

750R17750R17Requires

Tube

Photo Courtesy of Jerry NestlehuttΔ

o




Larger SizesLarger Sizes

oo = Different Tread StyleSumitomo Brand

235/60R17 28.3 24 7.4 9.3 62 - 82 $269

22 Wider Whitewall $279225/65R17 28.6 22 7.1 8.9 6 - 8 $264

2w Wider Whitewall $274235/65R17 28.9 22 7.5 9.4 62 - 82 $269

2w Wider Whitewall $279245/65R17 29.4 22 8 9.8 7 - 82 $274

2w Wider Whitewall $284265/65R17 30.2 3 8.9 10.8 72 - 92 $279

32 Wider Whitewall $289245/70R17 30.3 3 7.3 10 7 - 82 $269


32 Wider Whitewall $284

TIRE SIZ

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• Standard Profile • Wide Whitewalls

18” Sizes235/55R18 28 2 8 9.6 7 - 82 $269

24 Wider Whitewall $279

235/60R18 29 24 7.7 9.3 62 - 8 $27422 Wider Whitewall $284

245/60R18 29.4 24 7.8 9.8 62 - 82 $27922 Wider Whitewall $289

235/65R18 29.9 22 7.8 9.4 62 - 8 $2792w Wider Whitewall $289

265/60R18 30.3 22 9.6 10.7 72 - 9 $2842w Wider Whitewall $294

255/55R18 29 24 9 10 72 - 9 $28422 Wider Whitewall $294

285/60R18 31.5 2w 10 11.5 8 - 92 $2893 Wider Whitewall $299

17” Sizes

235/65R16 28 2w 8 9.6 62 - 8 $259

225/75R16 29.3 34 6 8.7 5 - 7 $254


3w Wider Whitewall $264265/75R16 31.3 32 8 10.6 62 - 8 $259

3 w Wider Whitewall $269215/70R16 28 2w 6 8.7 5 - 72 $254

3 Wider Whitewall $264225/70R16 28.4 2w 6.6 9 52 - 8 $264

3 Wider Whitewall $274235/70R16 28.6 2w 7.2 9.5 6 - 72 $264



32 Wider Whitewall $279265/70R16 30.2 34 8 10.7 7 - 8 $274

32 Wider Whitewall $284275/70R16 31 32 8.2 11.1 7 - 82 $279

3w Wider Whitewall $289

TIRE SIZ

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16” Sizes

oo = Different Tread Style

Diamond Back 16” - 17” - 18”Diamond Back 16” - 17” - 18”

oo

oo

oo

Manufacturer :Yokohama Brand: Mirada Made in USA UTQG 640 A B


NEW

26

Diamond Back 17” - Falken BrandDiamond Back 17” – Falken Brand

Recommend 50 psi

205/45R17 24.6 1 7.3 8.1 62-72 $256

215/45R17 24.8 1 7.7 8.3 7-8 $257

225/45R17 25.2 14 8.1 8.8 7-82 $258

235/45R17 25.6 14 8.5 9.3 72-9 $264

245/45R17 25.7 14 8.7 9.4 72-9 $269o255/45R17 26 14 9.1 10.1 8-92 $279

205/50R17 25.1 14 7.2 8.3 52-72 $254

215/50R17 25.7 14 7.6 8.7 6-72 $264

225/50R17 26.1 14 7.9 8.9 6-8 $269

235/50R17 26.3 12 8.3 9.4 62-82 $269o245/50R17 26.7 1w 8.5 9.8 7-82 $279

215/55R17 26.3 12 7.5 8.9 6-72 $269

225/55R17 27 2 8 9 6-8 $269

235/55R17 27.2 2 8.3 9.3 62-82 $279

215/60R17 27.2 2 7 8.6 7-82 $264

225/60R17 27.7 24 7.3 8.8 6-8 $26922 Wider White $279

235/60R17 28.1 24 7.6 9.4 62-82 $27422 Wider White $284

255/60R17 29 22 8.3 10.1 7-9 $2892w Wider White $299

215/65R17 28 24 7 8.7 6-72 $27922 Wider White $289

235/65R17 29.1 22 7.6 9.5 62-82 $2792w Wider White $289

TIRE SIZ

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RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

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PRIC

E

FFaallkkeenn 991122 ““WW”” SSppeeeedd RRaatteedd

UUTTQQGG 336600 AAAA AA

4455SSeerriieess

o = Falken 722 - Similar Tread Style

15” Sizes Below 18” Sizes Page 27

Many Big-Little Combinations

5500SSeerriieess

5555SSeerriieess

6600SSeerriieess

6655SSeerriieess

175/65R15 24.2 2 5.7 6.8 5 - 6 $199

185/65R15 24.5 2 6.1 7.3 5 - 62 $199

195/65R15 25 24 6.4 8 5 - 7 $199

205/65R15 25.4 24 6.7 8.3 52 - 72 $216

185/60R15 23.9 2 6.1 7.2 5 - 62 $204

195/60R15 24.3 2 6.4 7.9 52 - 7 $212

205/60R15 24.7 2 6.7 8.1 52 - 72 $217

215/60R15 25.2 24 7 8.7 6 - 72 $219

TIRE SIZ

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CTION

WID

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RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

EFalken 15" SmallPerformance Radials

UTQG 480 AA

Front sizes for cars using 17" and 18" larger diameter rims

H speed rated 130 mph

NEW




Unusual 17”SizesUnusual 17”Sizes

oo = Available in a 2”Wide White

“W” Speed Rated UTQG 300 A A

Diamond Back 17” Muscle Car SizesDiamond Back 17” Muscle Car Sizes

“V” Speed Rated UTQG 300 A A

225/50R17 26 14 8 9 6 - 8 $269255/50R17 27.1 2 9 10.2 7 - 9 $284275/50R17 27.9 24 10 11.1 72 - 92 $294

TIRE SIZ

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235/45R17 25.3 8.5 9.3 72 - 9 $259245/45R17 25.7 8.7 9.6 72 - 9 $269255/45R17 26 9 10.1 8 - 92 $279255/50R17 27.1 9.5 10.4 7 - 9 $284 275/40R17 25.6 10 11.2 9 - 11 $289285/40R17 26 10.2 11.4 9 - 11 $289315/35R17 25.6 11.3 12.5 102-122 $329

TIRE SIZ

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Nitto 450Nitto 450

Nitto 555Nitto 555

Exceptional Wet PerformanceThe double-V tread design utilizes slanted grooves and lateralslits to optimize water drainage in wet weather so you main-tain contact with the road.This provides superior wet traction.

Enhanced Tread LifeThe tread compound was engineered to reduce wear.This increases the longevity and durability of the tire.

Excellent StabilityThe double center rib pattern is made from solid circum-ferential tread block elements which help maintain stabilityin straight-line driving.

WW

WID

TH

Great muscle car sizes!

1” or 144” Whitewall Available

NEW

oo


Extreme PerformanceExtreme PerformanceDiamond Back 18” - Nitto BrandDiamond Back 18” - Nitto Brand

225/45R18 25.9 1 8 8.8 7 - 8 $279

235/40R18 25.5 1 8.7 9.5 8 - 92 $279

245/40R18 25.7 1 8.5 9.7 8 - 92 $284

245/45R18 26.6 14 8.6 9.7 72 - 9 $289

255/45R18 27 12 8.8 10.2 8 - 92 $294

235/50R18 27.2 12 8.3 9.45 62 - 82 $294

275/40R18 26.6 14 9.8 10.9 9 - 11 $299

285/40R18 27 12 10.3 11.4 92 - 11 $314

295/45R18 28.3 1w 10.3 11.5 92 - 11 $324

265/50R18 28.4 1w 9.8 10.6 72 - 92 $324

TIRE SIZ

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TREA

D WID

TH

SECTIO

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RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

EW

W W

IDTH

NT555 “W” Speed Rated

The NT555 is a summer-oriented ultra-high performancestreet tire designed with the performance driver in mind. Withone of the largest contact patches available, the NT555 pro-vides superior traction and reliable handling - without sacrific-ing tread life. Both tread pattern and compounds were opti-mized for dry performance. The highly rigid tread blocks pro-vide stability while prolonging the life of the tire. The NT555will get you off the line quicker, provide stability in thestraights and confidence in the corners.

EXPANDED - NEW SIZES!

Also AvailableIn Small White

Matching 17”NT555

See page 25

1968 Camaro "Reloaded" Built On www.V8TVshow.com

28Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com*Intended for pre 1976 vehicles only. See page 3 for more information.

Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com29

Diamond Back 18” - Falken BrandDiamond Back 18” – Falken Brand

Recommend 50 psi

265/35R18 25.3 1 9.5 10.5 9-102 $299

235/40R18 25.5 14 8.5 9.5 8-92 $274

245/40R18 25.9 14 8.7 9.6 8-92 $279

215/45R18 25.7 14 7.7 8.3 7-8 $269

225/45R18 26.3 12 8.1 8.7 7-82 $274

235/45R18 26.6 12 8.5 9.2 72-9 $279

245/45R18 26.8 12 8.7 9.5 72-9 $284

225/50R18 27.1 1w 7.9 9 6-8 $284

235/50R18 27.4 1w 8.3 9.5 62-82 $289

215/55R18 27.5 1w 7.6 8.7 6-72 $284

225/55R18 27.9 1w 7.9 9 6-8 $284

235/55R18 28.2 2 8.3 9.6 62-82 $28924 Wider White $299

255/55R18 29 24 8.7 10.4 7-9 $29422 Wider White $299

225/60R18 28.2 1w 7.3 8.8 6-8 $2842 Wider White $294

235/60R18 29.1 24 7.6 9.4 62-82 $29422 Wider White $299

245/60R18 29.6 24 7.9 9.6 7-82 $29422 Wider White $299

255/60R18 30 24 8.3 10.2 7-9 $29422 Wider White $299

265/60R18 30.5 22 8.6 10.7 72-92 $2942w Wider White $299

TIRE SIZ

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HEIGHT

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TREA

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DED

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PRIC

E

““WW”” SSppeeeedd RRaatteedd UUTTQQGG 336600 AAAA AA

Matching 15” and 17” sizes page 25

Many Big-Little Combinations

Total Size Range22 Sizes Available


Call today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.comCall today! 888-922-1642 www.dbtires.com30

Diamond Back 20” RadialsDiamond Back 20” Radials

Recommend 50 psi

• Larger 20” Sizes Available• Call With Request• Minimum Diameter - 26.7”

Red Line, Gold Line, Blue Line or Small Whitewall

Nitto 555 pictured above

Photo Courtesy of Patrick Daly and Mobsteel www.mobsteel.com

245/35R20 26.7 2 9.6 8 - 92 $274

255/35R20 27 2 10.2 82 - 10 $284

265/35R20 27.3 w 10.7 9 - 102 $299

275/35R20 27.6 w 10.9 9 - 11 $319

TIRE SIZ

E

HEIGHT

WW

WID

TH

SECTIO

N

WID

TH

RECOMMEN

DED

RIMW

IDTH

PRIC

E

NN == Nitto 555 TTEE == Toyo Extenza TTVV == Toyo Versado

TTPP == Toyo Proxes STII GG == Goodyear RSA-2

TTEE

TTEE

NN

NN

245/40R20 27.7 w 9.8 8 - 92 $298

255/40R20 28 1 10 82 - 10 $314

275/40R20 28.7 1 10.7 9 - 11 $316

295/40R20 29.3 1 11.7 10 - 11.5 $319

TTEE

TTPP

TTPP

TTPP

245/45R20 28.7 w 9.6 72 - 9 $314

255/45R20 29 1 9.9 8 - 92 $289

275/45R20 29.7 1 10.6 82 - 102 $299

295/45R20 30.4 1 11.6 9.5 - 11 $299

GG

TTPP

TTPP

TTPP

245/50R20 29.7 w 9.8 7 - 82 $289

255/50R20 30 1 10.2 7 - 9 $299

265/50R20 30.5 1 10.8 72 - 92 $299

285/50R20 31.2 1 11.4 8 - 10 $309

305/50R20 32 1 12.1 82 - 11 $319

TTVV

TTPP

TTVV

TTPP


TTPP

For Resto-Mods, Street Rods or other vehicles built prior to 1976

31

Never run tubes. That’s like stepping back 40 years in technolo-gy. If you still insist on bias ply tires, just make sure they’re tube-less. The chance of a tube failing is much greater than a tubelesstire failure. Why? Tubes create heat and friction, and don’t dis-sipate heat well...and a tire’s worst enemy is heat. Also, over

time, tubes “grow” and become too large, and they actuallydevelop creases — and then they split. If a tube is puncturedor fails, air loss is immediate, giving you little or no time at all toreact. Often, a tubeless tire can be driven for a while with apuncture.

My first question is, “Why would you want to?” But yes, you candrive the car down the road but remember in the event that youmust execute a serious emergency maneuver, you can easily losecontrol of the car and the results could be disastrous. The two

different tires have vastly different handling characteristics, and aloss of adhesion in either the front or rear could mean lossof control. The difference in the performance characteristics ofthe two types of tires is enormous. So this is an unsafe practice.

The Use Of TubesThe Use Of Tubes

What About Mixing Bias Ply Tires With Radials?What About Mixing Bias Ply Tires With Radials?

CAUTION: If you must use tubes carefully examine the inside linerof the tire and remove any manufacturers labels. If not removed,these labels could cause a tube failure resulting in rapid loss of air.

IMPORTANT INFORMATIONIMPORTANT INFORMATIONCClleeaanniinngg TTiippss (NO bleach)

One of the first things you will notice is that Diamond Back Classics are extremely easy to clean. Most whitewalls turn dingy oryellow because of the leaching of chemicals (mostly anti-oxidants) into the white material. Because our process uses a butyl lin-ing to stop chemical leeching, you only have to clean the surface dirt.We recommend frequent cleanings with an abrasive clean-ing pad. A fine or medium sanding sponge works well.These are available at most hardware stores.

Any good cleaner works OK - Castrol Super Clean, 409, Simple Green, Greased Lightning - just to name a few. Avoid cleanersthat contain bleach. Prolonged use of these cleaners can “dry” the whitewall surface. Do not use products such as Armor All onwhitewall.This could cause slight discoloration.Whitewall surfaces tend to “dry” with time, heat, ozone, etc. A vigorous cleaningperiodically will get rid of the dry surface and help maintain the tire’s beauty. Don’t be afraid to scrub.

AAiirr PPrreessssuurreeModern p-metric radials are designed for higher air pressure.This reduces rolling resistance, reduces heat build-up, and improves your car’ssteering response. It also helps prevent damage to your whitewalls. Because of so many applications, specific air pressures cannot be recom-mended. A good setting for most applications is 35 psi COLD. Remember, air pressure fluctuates with temperature change - frequent pressurechecks are recommended, especially when beginning a long trip.

For the street-rodders who frequently use smaller front tires and for the resto-rodders who select smaller tires to achieve that “certain look,” werecommend higher air pressures. Diamond Back offers a large variety of smaller radials designed for higher air pressures – i.e. “H” or “T” speedrated. Remember, your front tires do most of the work.Tires designed for higher pressure (40-44psi) should be considered.


A Tire Size Cross Reference Chart You’ll Find HandyA Tire Size Cross Reference Chart You’ll Find Handy

Did you ever buy tires for your clas-sic car from a specialty tire compa-ny, with a "Big Brand Name" on thesidewall? I'm sure you felt goodabout that. After all, you thoughtyou bought the best. Or wait aminute...did you? Like most folks,you assumed you bought a tiremade by the tire company whosename is on the sidewall. Well, if itwas a whitewall, redline, or similarspecialty sidewall tire with a bigmanufacturer's name on it, it’sunlikely that they made it! Here'swhat I’m talking about:

The big-name U.S. tire manufactur-ers are always taking old molds outof service for various reasons.When they are no longer useful tothose big-name companies, they areoften sold. These molds are thenreplaced with new ones that oper-ate better and make a better tire.So who buys those old molds?Classic tire companies, among

others. The molds are then placedin small factories, many of whichare in foreign countries. Nowthey’re made privately, but withthat big brand name still on theside. It’s all legal. But the tires arenot made by who you think.

I’ll just say this: Radial tires have tobe precisely built, and the moldsmust operate perfectly, so I don'tthink it's a good idea to re-usemolds that are outdated. The truthis, the major manufacturers won'tuse outdated equipment.

So the original radial tire molds aretaken out of production, and theyare sold. They are then used by asmall manufacturer to make tireswith the big company's name stillon them, which they do underlicense. So just don't assume thename on the sidewall tells you whomade the tire. It doesn’t. Alwaysask.

The Name Game: Things Are Not Always As They AppearThe Name Game: Things Are Not Always As They Appear

750-14 775-14 26.8” F78-14 26.5” 205-75R14 26.1”

800-14 825-14 27.4” G78-14 27.2” 215-75R14 26.7”

640-15 735-15 26.5” E78-15 26.3” 185-80R15 26.7”

670-15 775-15 27.5” F78-15 27.4” 205-75R15 27”

710-15 815-15 28” G78-15 27.8” 215-75R15 27.6”

760-15 845-15 28.6” H78-15 28.3” 225-75R15 28.1”

800-15 900-15 29.5” L78-15 29.3” 235-75R15 29”

Diamond Back Classics Tire Size Conversion Table

Questions? Diamond Back Classics Help Line: 888-922-1642

If you have an older classic car, you probably know the car’soriginal tire size, but not how to cross reference it to a mod-ern tire size. Or, maybe you know the diameter of the tire youwant. I’ve prepared a table here for you to use as a quick ref-erence. Notice that as you read across, each line represents the

same basic tire size, all the way from left to right. You mightwant to make a copy of this chart and tape it to your toolbox or inside a cabinet door, where it will be easy to getyour hands on whenever you need it.

1950’s 1960’s AverageHeight 1970’s Average

HeightModernRadial

AverageHeight

Photo Courtesy of Gary Meadors

Photo Courtesy of Raphael Derkson


33

Always mount from the side withthe shortest distance to the dropcenter.

DropCenter

ShortSide

PPaayymmeenntt - We accept Master Card,Visa, American Expressand Discover. We also accept money orders, cashier's checks and personalchecks. Personal checks will be held for 10 days before tires are shipped.

WARNING!

IMPORTANT!IMPORTANT! Proper Balancing

Some companies still use balancing equipment which uses the rim’s center hole and a cone for centering. This is notaccurate. If the rims center hole is out of tolerance, and many of them are, the tire/rim assembly will have a lateral (sideto side) or a radial (up-down) motion and cannot be balanced properly. Most newer balancers use a “lug-centric” cen-tering system in which the tire/rim assembly is centered using the rim bolt holes. This is the preferred method.

REFUNDSNO REFUNDS AFTER 30 DAYS

NO REFUNDS OR REPLACEMENTS IF TIRES HAVE BEEN USED

REFUNDS

WARNING!Avoid Rim Damage During Mounting


34

Item must be returned in new condition within 30 days after receipt and the customer pays freight both ways. If item isopened but returned within 30 days, customer pays freight both ways and a 15% restocking fee. If item is damaged bythe customer or one of his agents, such as a tire installer, there is no return. If tire is damaged by a carrier, such as UPS,do not accept.

- No Returns On 17” – 18” – 20” Sizes – Please Measure Carefully

- No Returns Or Exchanges On Special Widths Or Non-Catalog Items

RETURN INFORMATION

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

DDoo NNoott LLeeaann oorr SSttaacckk WWhhiitteewwaallllssWhitewalls are susceptible to staining. Most whitewalls that are damaged are due to leaning or stack-ing. New tires are loaded with a variety of chemicals, and they will still have a small residue of moldrelease used by the manufacturer. These chemicals will permanently stain your whitewall. Once it isstained, it will remain yellow and cannot be cleaned. Whitewalls require extra caution when handlingor storing. Handle with care!

MMeeaassuurriinnggTo measure whitewall width, the tire must be inflated. Due to a number of factors, widewall widthsmay vary up to 1/16 of an inch. Whitewall width may vary slightly due to rim flange coverage. Notall wheel flanges are the same.

RReemmoovviinngg tthhee BBlluuee TTiirree PPrrootteeccttaannttThe blue protectant used on our tires is water soluble. When ready to remove it, simply soak thetires with water and the water will do all of the work.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

RETURN INFORMATION

Photo Courtesy of Josh Strassner



Optional Extended Warranty – * Road Hazard – 4 Year Coverage

Our Hassle Proof WarrantyOur Hassle Proof WarrantyDiamond Back has become the choice of informed buyers. Our quality con-trol is so strict that warranty issues seldom arise. If they do, we want you tounderstand the exact terms of our warranty. Tire warranties for the “life ofthe tread” are empty and tell you nothing. We want to be more specific.

• All Diamond Back Classics are guaranteed for 4 years against defects in workmanship and materials.

• Warranty does not include tires run out of alignment, abuse, underinflation, incorrect sizing or damage caused by impropermounting procedures. Limited warranty does not include road hazard.

• Warranty applies only to the original purchaser.

• Warranty does not cover stains caused by stacking or other topical stains caused by neglect.

• All warranty items honored by Diamond Back Classics - not original manufacturer.

• Extended warranty covers road hazard.

Time Replacement Cost Time Replacement Cost

1 year no charge 3 years 50%2 years 25% 4 years 70%

Terms of limited 4-year warranty - Pro-rata cost replacement:

• Pro-rata replacement based on current price.• Freight charges are pro-rata

Time Replacement Cost Time Replacement Cost

1 year no charge 3 years no charge2 years no charge 4 years 50%

Terms of Extended Warranty

A SMART CHOICE!

Limited Warranty Terms

$7.50 13” - 15” Sizes$10.50 16” Sizes$13.75 17” - 18” Sizes

• Return of damaged tire may not be necessary

• Claims can be handled with digital pictures in some cases

Larger Sizes N/A

* Unrepairable tires due to road hazard - i.e. cuts, snags, sidewall damage.

* Simple, repairable punctures not included

There are really two ways to make a whitewall radial tire. Youcan do it while you’re actually making the tire or you can add thewhitewall to a finished tire as a final step. Remember, white rub-ber is just ornamental and has nothing to do with strength orperformance. The advantage to adding it after the tire is made

is that you can put a whitewall or color stripe on any tire youwant, including 17”, 18” and 20” tires — and with much tighterquality control. The versatility is endless and tires are all currentproduction. This is how we do it at Diamond Back. We’re sim-ply the “final step”.

We star t by mounting the new tire on a special machine that spinsit at high speed. Using our own special attachments, we rough upthe sidewall surface so it’s no longer perfectly smooth. The tirethen goes on to where a special bonding agent is applied to thesidewall area that prepares the tire for the vulcanization process.

Because of the accuracy of our preparatory machine, and becauseit turns at such a high RPM, any abnormalities of the tire can bespotted immediately. Because we use major manufacturers ourrejection rate is near zero.

The Two Whitewall Manufacturing MethodsThe Two Whitewall Manufacturing Methods

Step #1: PreparationStep #1: Preparation

Buffing the sidewall.

A whole section of our plant is devoted to the vulcanizationequipment that makes the whitewall a permanent part of thetire. Because the vulcanization process is so effective, if you triedto separate the whitewall from the tire afterward, the tire itselfwould become damaged. It's a marriage that lasts forever…avery permanent bond.

Our biggest competitors tell folks that Diamond Back's white-walls are "glued on". They’ve even told people they’re painted onand even “ground out.”They say this to make us look foolish, so

you’ll think we glue whitewalls onto tires using contact cement.It's not a true thing to tell people but at least now you know thatvulcanization isn’t “gluing on”. It’s the process every tire com-pany uses to build tires. Remember, our competitors don’t sellgenuine brand names but rather, the "licensed" tires that theyhave made with the old molds.

So if you forget everything else, just remember that once thewhitewall is vulcanized to the tire, it's on there forever (just trypulling one off the tire sometime).

After vulcanization, the material has to be trimmed to the exactdesired width, depending on what you order. Whether it's a 22"whitewall for a '57 T-Bird or a 32" whitewall for that big 40'sclassic, it makes no difference. The fronts and rears can bematched in whitewall width even if your tires are different sizes(as with hot rod big & little combinations). That's the nice partabout trimming each whitewall or redline to order.

All of our finishers are equipped with laser guides so that all

widths are held to close tolerances. Once the trimming is com-plete, a series of finishing steps in the final process makes themnice and smooth.

Another advantage to high speed finishing is that it immediatelyshows us if there’s any kind of problem with the tire’s trueness(runout). The operator can spot it right away and he simplyrejects the tire. It seldom happens.

Trimming The WhitewallTrimming The Whitewall

VulcanizationVulcanization


37

No one has ever identified or explained how a radial tire can actu-ally cause additional stress on a rim. I’ve read and listened to opin-ions and that’s all they are is opinions unsupported by scientific test-ing data. I believe this myth is backwards. I believe radials cause lessstress on rims than the old rigid bias ply tires.

The Department of Transportation has created the new FMVSS139 (Tread Act)* for the purpose of “establishing new and morestringent tire performance requirements that apply to all new tiresfor use on light vehicles.” Here is the DOT’s assessment of the dif-ferences in performance characteristics between bias and radialtires.“A bias passenger car tire carcass is typically made up of two orfour plies of cord material that run from bead to bead at an angleof approximately 35 degrees to the centerline of the tire.This typeof construction provides a very strong, durable carcass for the tire.Because the ply cords criss-cross and all the cords are anchored tothe beads, the carcass is stiff and relatively inflexible. This type ofconstruction prevents the different parts of the tire from actingindependently of another when forces are applied to the tire. Asa result, a bias construction is susceptible to impactbreaks because it does not easily absorb road irregular-ities.” This causes more rim stress.

“By comparison, a radial passenger tire carcass is typically made upof one of more plies of cord material that run from bead at an angleof approximately 90 degrees to centerline of the tire. Because thecords do not criss-cross and because the opposite ends of eachcord are anchored to the beads at points that are directly oppositeeach other, the radial tire carcass is flexible. The radial tire is rein-forced and stabilized by a belt that runs circumferentially around thetire under the tread. This construction allows the sidewalls to actindependently of the belt and the tread area when forces areapplied to the tire. The “independent” action is what allows thesidewalls to readily absorb road irregularities without overstressingthe cords. This ‘independent’ action allows two important things tohappen (1) the tread of a radial tire remains fully in contact with theroad over the entire tread width, and (2) the ply cords andsidewall are able to absorb forces without exerting thetwisting force on the beads that are exerted by bias con-struction.”

Because a radial tire is so flexible, it must have some type of lowersidewall support. Remember the upper third of a radial’s sidewall

does all the work. The lower two thirds of the sidewall is support-ed by the portion of the tire called the Apex.The Apex consists oftwo stiff, triangular shaped pieces of rubber that extend upwardfrom the bead where the tire sits on the rim.The apex is thickest atthe bottom and tapers upwards to a small point. The sole purposeat the apex is stability and support.The apex is a very strong, rigidpiece of rubber – so rigid that it becomes the principal componentof the run flat tire. How does the apex relate to rim stress? Simple- it transfers road force up to the flex area so that the flexible uppersidewall can do its job of absorbing road forces without “exertingthe twisting force on the beads that are exerted by bias construc-tions.”

Don’t forget about inflation. Radials typically run about 10 psi morethan the old bias tires. A poorly inflated radial causes more drag andwill create more rim stress. A properly inflated radial with morerigid sidewalls will have less rolling resistance and less stress on therim.

The following paragraph is from Old Cars Weekly – 12-6-07 issue.Here’s a condensed version of what someone has written:

“Rims for bias-ply tires and radial tires are made out of differentalloys. Rims for bias-ply tires cannot be used on radials. The forcesexerted by bias-ply versus radial-ply are different and needs rimsmade specific for each application. Otherwise there is over flexingleading to rim metal fatigue and breakage. One can tell bias-ply, radi-al-ply and disc brake rims by their markings.”

I witnessed the transition from bias to radials and I don’t agree withthis letter. The letter also says,“ Rims for bias-ply and radial tires aremade of different alloys.” Again, I disagree. There were no indus-try standard markings to identify rims for radial use orrims for bias use, and no alloy changes just to accom-modate radial tires.

In summary, all rims are subjected to stress (flex). The stress (flex)point can change its location on the rim (bead seat) depending onmany factors – tire size, tire width, inflation, vehicle weight, bias orradial tires. If you have a 50’s or 60’s car, you would be safer withnew rims simply because you don’t know the history of the olderrims. In the last sentence of the letter someone wrote to Old CarsWeekly he states, “If you cannot find the correct rims you shouldcontinue to use bias-ply tires.” This is at best very bad advice, sim-ply because of the safety advantage of radials versus the poor han-dling characteristics of bias tires. If you are using old rims, you couldhave a rim failure. The chances are extremely remote, and in myopinion, the cause won’t be whether you’re using radial or bias tires-it’s just an old rim.

Bill ChapmanDiamond Back Classic Tires

*CFR Part 571Docket #NHTS-030-15400RIN 2127-A154www.nhtsa.com

Stress On Rims: Radials vs. Bias Ply TiresStress On Rims: Radials vs. Bias Ply Tires

2007 NSRA Giveaway Car-Photo Courtesy of NSRA


38

Load Index and Size LocatorLoad Index and Size LocatorTire Size Load Index PageTire Size Load Index Page

13” S izes 19

185/75R14 1279 7,13 ,14195/75R14 1389 7,13 ,14205/75R14 1532 5,7 ,13 ,14215/75R14 1653 5,7 ,13 ,14

175/70R14 1102 7,14185/70R14 1201 7,14195/70R14 1356 5,7205/70R14 1433 5,6 ,7 ,10215/70R14 1554 5,6 ,7 ,10 ,18225/70R14 1675 10,18

225/60R14 1455 10235/60R14 1565 10245/60R14 1675 10

135R15 805 16145R15 937 16165/80R15 1201 16

205/75R15 1598 5,6,7,8,9,14,15215/75R15 1742 5,6 ,7 ,8 ,15225/75R15 1874 5,6 ,7 ,8 ,14 ,15235/75R15 2028 5,6 ,7 ,8 ,140235/75R15 22710 Extr a Load 7 ,8700R15 2040 21265/75R15 2469 13205/70R15 1497 5,6,7,8,9,13,14,17215/70R15 1626 5,6,7,8,9,13,14225/70R15 1753 5,6,7,8,10,14,17,18235/70R15 1896 7,8,10,13,17,18255/70R15 2183 10,13 ,17 ,18265/70R15 2469 13,17

185/65R15 1168 5,16 ,26195/65R15 1279 5,6 ,7 ,13 ,16205/65R15 1400 5,6 ,7 ,8 ,13 ,16 ,26215/65R15 1510 5,6 ,7 ,8 ,18175/65R17 26

185/60R15 1102 5,16 ,26195/60R15 1190 5,7 ,26205/60R15 1301 5,7 ,10 ,26215/60R15 1411 5,7 ,10 ,26225/60R15 1521 5,10235/60R15 1642 10,17 ,18245/60R15 1764 10,17 ,18255/60R15 1885 10,17 ,18275/60R15 2150 10,13

295/50R15 2061 10,17 ,18

225/75R16 1984 24235/75R16 2094 24245/75R16 2271 14,25265/75R16 2469 14,25215/85R16 2337 24750R16 2440 24

205/60R16 1389 23215/60R16 1477 14,23225/60R16 1609 23235/60R16 1764 23215/65R16 1653 23235/65R16 1924 24215/70R16 1709 24,25

225/70R16 1820 24,25235/70R16 1984 14,25245/70R16 2094 14,25255/70R16 2271 14,25265/70R16 2403 14,25275/70R16 2601 25

205/55R16 1279 23215/55R16 1609 23

315/35R17 1650 27

275/40R17 1653 27285/45R17 27

205/45R17 1102 26215/45R17 1356 264225/45R17 1477 26235/45R17 1477 26,27245/45R17 1521 26,27255/45R17 1279 26,27

205/50R17 1433 26215/50R17 1356 26225/50R17 1477 26,27235/50R17 1565 26255/50R17 1819 27275/50R17 2337 27

215/55R17 1477 26225/55R17 1819 26235/55R17 1709 26

215/60R17 1521 26225/60R17 1819 26235/60R17 1874 25,26255/60R17 1885 17,26275/60R17 2337 17285/60R17 2601 17

215/65R17 1653 26225/65R17 1819 25235/65R17 1984 25,26245/65R17 2039 25

245/70R17 2205 14265/70R17 2535 17750R17 N/A 24

265/35R18 1609 27

235/40R18 1521 28,29245/40R18 1609 28,29275/40R18 1929 28285/40R18 1819 286215/45R18 1433 29225/45R18 1356 28,29245/45R18 1565 28255/45R18 1709 28295/45R18 2469 28225/50R18 1521 29235/50R18 1819 28,29265/50R18 2210 28

215/55R18 1521 29225/55R18 1653 29235/55R18 1764 29245/55R18 1825 10,26255/55R18 2039 27225/60R18 1709 29235/60R18 2419 25,29245/60R18 2039 25,29255/60R18 2024 29265/60R18 2337 25,29285/60R18 2756 25235/65R18 1984 25



I received this excerpt via email from a customer ofmine. As I was getting ready to toss it, I suddenlyrealized that there is an important message here,something that many of you may have never con-sidered. It has to do with the way all classic radialsare built vs. the way classic radials are producedhere at Diamond Back.

White rubber is purely ornamental. It has nothingto do with strength or performance but it canaffect sidewall integrity. In Europe, there are nowhitewall radials. To the European tire engineers,the addition of whitewall material into the sidewallmay create a tire that’s not as dependable. Radialtires are very complex. They are built to achievecertain performance and handling levels. The mostcritical area is the upper sidewall or flex zone. Thisis the area that is thin to help dissipate heat. This isalso the area that absorbs road shock and helps the

tire reacts quicker to your steering commands. Theother areas of the tire are considered less criticalbecause they flex less. Bias ply tires with theirstiffer sidewalls do no have the handling and ridecharacteristics of radials. Adding whitewall rubberinto the sidewalls of bias ply tires does not affectperformance. Radial tires are different. Sidewallconstruction is more complex thus more critical.At Diamond Back, we vulcanize (time, temperature,pressure to create a permanent bond) our white-wall material OONNTTOO the sidewall, not IINNTTOO thesidewall. TThhee oorriiggiinnaall ssiiddeewwaallll iinntteeggrriittyy rreemmaaiinnssuunncchhaannggeedd. From the cross section illustration onthis page, notice the two Apex areas. Our white-walls are vulcanized to the area opposite the apexor the non-critical area, leaving the more critical flexzone area free of extra material.

Why Aren’t Whitewall Auto Tires as Wide as They Used to Be?

Why Aren’t Whitewall Auto Tires as Wide as They Used to Be?

The most important item you can purchase -

the one item that determines your handling and ride comfort is... Tires!

BUY CAREFULLY!

The sole purpose of white sidewall tires is to lookpretty. At one time, whitewalls were large and anoption that most Americans bought. A caller on aradio talk show, who posed this Imponderable,questioned why, although he paid a hefty premiumfor the whitewalls, he got much less white for hismoney than he did years ago.

Talks with tire experts yielded two explanations.First, as whitewalls are a totally cosmetic option,their appearance is subject to the whims of fashion.

Tire design, like high fashion design, tends to followthe lead of Europeans. Porsche has evidently madea huge impact with its all black tires.

Second, the thickness of white sidewalls has beenreduced to conform to a general decrease in thethickness of tires and tire components, part of anindustry wide attempt to make tires run cooler inorder to meet the requirements of high speeds oninterstate highways and federal high speed safetystandards.

*from the Imponderable Gazette-1994

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AAppeexx AArreeaaSSiiddeewwaallll SSuuppppoorrtt

LLooww--FFlleexx AArreeaa

World’s Most Beautiful Tires

Wide Whites Redlines Goldlines Bluelines and Many More

1-888-922-1642 • www.dbtires.com • 4753 Hwy 90 • Conway, SC 29526

Documents

Radials Or Bias Ply Tires For Your Classic