The Decline of 8.25-20 Tires and the Challenge of Vintage Truck Maintenance

[MikePhua]

Understanding the 8.25-20 Tire Format
The 8.25-20 tire is a bias-ply commercial truck tire size that was once common on medium-duty vehicles like the Ford F600, International Loadstars, and GMC grain trucks from the 1950s through the 1970s. The designation refers to an 8.25-inch section width mounted on a 20-inch diameter rim. These tires typically require inner tubes and are mounted on split-ring or multi-piece rims, which are now considered outdated and potentially hazardous without proper handling equipment.
Bias-ply tires like the 8.25-20 were known for their stiff sidewalls and durability on rough terrain, but they lacked the ride comfort and fuel efficiency of modern radial designs. As radial tubeless tires became the industry standard in the 1980s and 1990s, manufacturers gradually phased out production of older sizes, leaving vintage truck owners with limited options.
The Cost and Scarcity of Replacement Tires
Finding new 8.25-20 steer tires today is increasingly difficult. Prices have climbed to around $600 per pair, which may seem steep but is relatively modest compared to the cost of converting to modern wheels and tires. A full conversion to 22.5-inch tubeless rims can exceed $2,000 when factoring in:

• Six new radial tires (e.g., 9R22.5 or 10R22.5)
  
• Compatible rims with correct bolt pattern and offset
  
• Valve stems, balancing, and mounting labor
  

For owners of trucks like the 1963 Ford F600, this poses a dilemma: invest in a costly conversion or continue sourcing increasingly rare bias-ply tires. Some have resorted to pulling tires from parts trucks or scrap yards, though even that supply is drying up.
Terminology Annotation

• Bias-ply tire: A tire constructed with layers of fabric cords crisscrossed at angles, offering durability but less flexibility than radial tires.
  
• Split-ring rim: A multi-piece wheel design where the locking ring secures the tire bead; requires caution during inflation due to potential explosive failure.
  
• Tubeless radial: A modern tire design with steel belts and no inner tube, offering better fuel economy and ride quality.
  
• 22.5 rim: A standard commercial truck wheel diameter used widely in modern fleets.
  

Creative Sourcing and Field Solutions
Some operators have had success finding 22.5-inch wheels from vintage International Harvester trucks, particularly those with riveted centers. These wheels can be refurbished and repainted for use on dump trucks or grain haulers. Craigslist and local tire shops occasionally yield surplus steer tires or take-off sets from fleet upgrades.
One user reported scoring a set of six older steer tires and new drive tires from a tire shop eager to clear inventory. Another salvaged usable tires from a scrap yard where axles were being cut up, a practice that’s becoming rare as recycling regulations tighten.
Evaluating the Economics of Conversion
Before committing to a full wheel and tire conversion, owners should consider:

• Remaining service life of the truck
  
• Frequency of use (daily vs. seasonal)
  
• Availability of matching tires for the rear axle
  
• Brake drum compatibility with new rims
  
• Insurance and inspection requirements for modified wheels
  

For trucks used primarily off-road or on private property, maintaining the original tire size may be more practical. However, for road-legal vehicles, especially those hauling loads, the safety and performance benefits of radial tubeless tires are significant.
Preserving Vintage Trucks in a Changing Market
The shrinking availability of 8.25-20 tires reflects a broader trend: the slow disappearance of mid-century commercial vehicles from active service. As parts become scarce and regulations tighten, many owners are forced to retire or repurpose their trucks. Some convert them into trailers, while others strip usable components and scrap the rest.
Yet there remains a passionate community of restorers and operators who value these machines for their simplicity, durability, and character. For them, sourcing tires is part of the challenge—and the reward—of keeping history alive.
Recommendations for Tire Sourcing and Maintenance
To extend the life of existing 8.25-20 tires and improve sourcing success:

• Rotate tires regularly to prevent uneven wear
  
• Store spares in cool, dry conditions away from sunlight
  
• Use tire sealant for minor leaks in tube-type setups
  
• Monitor local classifieds and auctions for parts trucks
  
• Network with vintage truck clubs and forums for leads
  

Some specialty suppliers still produce limited runs of bias-ply tires for military and agricultural use. These may offer a temporary solution, though prices and shipping can be prohibitive.
Conclusion
The 8.25-20 tire is more than a size—it’s a symbol of an era when trucks were built with steel dashboards, manual steering, and mechanical simplicity. As the market shifts toward modern radial formats, maintaining these vintage rigs requires creativity, persistence, and a deep appreciation for the machines that once moved the backbone of rural industry. Whether through salvage, conversion, or preservation, the legacy of the old F600 and its peers continues to roll forward, one tire at a time.