Seeking opinions on Universal ribbed tires

[Scott_Conger]

I have had good success with both Riverside and Firestones on my demountables, but they are awfully oversized...both 30 x 3 and 30 x 3 1/2 are simply bigger than tires of the same size that were made when the cars were new. As far as too big goes, the Universal Driver tire is simply gargantuan!

I am going to be putting tires on a friend's Torpedo soon as the ancient white Ribbed Universals are rotting off the rims. I like the look of them and am also considering them on my '13, though not in white...all black for more miles of touring (sob!...those white tires sure are purty!). Are the ribbed Universals more "correct" in size as opposed to the "Ex-Size" Firestones and Riversides?

thanks in advance for your input...

[Rich Bingham]

No wisdom here, Scott, other than to agree that the "oversize" T-Driver tires are mighty big ! Close as the tire is to the fender I kinda dread having to change one ! Ill be interested in the replies !

[TWrenn]

Scott: I don't have a pic of mine on the computer as yet..but do on my phone. Later either today or tomorrow I'll send you a copy. They look nice on my '13. Just put them on last month. Time will tell of course as to how long they last!
Certainly toe-in being correct is paramount. I just re-adjusted mine, it is now just about spot on, at 1/4" "in". Tracks great. Just hope they wear great!!

[Scott_Conger]

Tim

that is encouraging. The tires on the car now, are made in Arkansas (!) and I suspect are around 40 years old based on some sleuthing and existing service records that came with the car. Came out of a museum, and have no mileage or discernable wear...just that you can pick chunks of rubber off with your thumbnail. Would not make many miles as-is!

[Corey Walker]

I bought this one about 7 years ago, 30X3. It’s the same height as the 30X3 1/2 Firestones, 30 1/2” tall. The Firestone is bald is why it’s a little shorter.

[Corey Walker]

I think these Coker tires from the mid 1990’s were the correct size.

[Scott_Conger]

BTT one and only time...as I really am interested in what Universal users have to say...

Looks like if you ask the same question for the 40th time, there are no end of experts, but ask a question for the first time, very few actually know or are interested.

And so for now, will say thank you to those that have responded and will await the coming silence!

[TWrenn]

Scott...finally got around to your thread..here's the only pic I have with the universal ribbed tires. Havent had time to take more..been too busy driving on them!
So far I like them..they really ride quiet.

[Scott_Conger]

Thanks Tim!
I appreciate your taking the time to find and post the pix
Lovely '13!
I have a '13 too, though is not as pretty as yours is. Mine rides on old tires very similar to the Universals, though I cannot recall the brand. These are for a friend's Torpedo, and I am now convinced that they will be a good choice. They will be replacing 40+ y/o tires of the same type (though were USA made).

regards and thanks again

[TWrenn]

You're welcome Scott! Thanks for the nice comments. I love this car, drive it a good 2,000 miles a year. Probably more now that I am down to only two Ts!! Unfortunately I do doubt these tires will last 40 years!!! LOL I'll be happy if I get 3 years running out of 'em!