590-15 Silvertown Blackwall Tire
These classic blackwall BFGoodrich bias ply tires feature authentic tread design and nice sidewall details. These tires are hand-built in the USA using the original molds and traditional bias ply construction. The rubber compounds are modern and the quality is excellent. These tires feature fantastic period-correct styling and are available in many sizes for 10- to 15-inch fitments.
Blackwall Tire
Since the introduction of carbon black rocked the tire industry, the original recipe for most tires has been a solid black sidewall. For classics and collector cars alike, it's hard to beat the no-nonsense appeal of a classic blackwall style tire. British sports car, classic truck and even hot rod enthusiasts love the way a nice period correct blackwall tire looks on their vehicles.
Bias Ply Construction
Bias ply tire construction is a method that was used from the 1900's through the 1970's on passenger cars and light trucks. Bias ply tires feature ply cords that run at a 45 degree angle to the bead, and overlap in a crisscross pattern, depending on how many ply layers are used. This creates a strong tire, but bias ply tires have a tendency to follow breaks or ruts in the pavement. Bias ply tires are the most authentic choice for classic car restorations and traditional hot rod builds. Coker Tire offers a huge variety of bias ply tires for many applications.
BFGoodrich Silvertown Classic Bias Ply Tires
B.F.Goodrich Silvertown classic bias ply tires are available in dozens of sizes and styles to fit many antique and classic cars from the 1920’s through the 1970’s. With authentic designs and high quality construction, this product line is a favorite among car and truck restorers.
BFGoodrich Tires | 100 Years of Outstanding Tire Fitments
Coker Tire is proud to offer a 100-year range of fitment, thanks to a huge variety of BFGoodrich tires. From the early 1900's to the modern era, the BFG product lines offer original fitments and custom sizes for hot rods, classic trucks and more. We offer BFGoodrich tires in authentic bias ply construction, as well as modern radials. Also included in the BFG line are the famous Silvertowns, Radial T/A, Phenom and All Terrain T/A KO2 tires. You won't find a more comprehensive tire product line in the world!
Please Note
- Tire mounted on wheel for demonstration purposes only. Wheel and other accessories are not included. Please note that dimensions listed (tread width, section width and overall diameter) are non-scientific and based on an inflated tire, mounted to a wheel. Dimensions may vary due to rim width and inflation pressure. Please note Chemical Guys Tire and Rubber Cleaner and Adams Polish Tire shine has been linked to Whitewall browning and should not be used. We recommend using our line of tire care products.
| SKU | 56300 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 19.000000 |
| GTIN | 00842199105193 |
| Availability Date | 2027-03-31T00:00:00Z |
| Sidewall Style | Blackwall |
| Tire Construction | Bias Ply |
| Construction Ply | 4 PLY POLY |
| Tire Series | Silvertown Classic Bias Ply |
| DOT Approved | Yes |
| Rim Diameter | 15 inch |
| Tube Type or Tubeless | Tubeless |
| Product Size | 590-15 |
| Tread Depth (32nds) | 12 |
| Tread Width (IN) | 3.75 |
| Width Bias Ply | 5.90 |
| Brand | BFGoodrich |
| Max Load Capacity (LBS) | 1050@32 psi |
| Section Width (IN) | 6.30 |
| Rim Width (in) | 4.00 - 4.50 |
| Overall Diameter (IN) | 26.50 |
This BFGoodrich comes in the 590-15 size, suitable for the classic and collector vehicles listed below.
About the 590-15 Tire Size
The 590-15 tire size is associated with a wide range of vehicle applications spanning 1949 through 1974, including select Borgward, Willys, Henry J, Austin-Healey, Porsche, Volvo, Peugeot, and Volkswagen models. This BFGoodrich is offered in the 590-15 size, and its bias ply construction makes it relevant to shoppers looking at period-style fitment tied to this size. For more detailed information on this tire size, explore the 590-15 tire on Coker Tire Fitment Guide.
590-15 Tire Size Alternatives
| Alternative Type | Tire Size | More Information | Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Radial Equivalent | 165R15 | 165R15 Tire Fitment Guide | 165R15 Products for Sale |
| Modern Radial Equivalent | P165/75R15 | P165/75R15 Tire Fitment Guide | P165/75R15 Products for Sale |
| Modern Radial Equivalent | P175/70R15 | P175/70R15 Tire Fitment Guide | P175/70R15 Products for Sale |
Vehicle Fitment for the BFGoodrich | 590-15
The BFGoodrich | 590-15 is available in a tire size associated with a range of classic and collector vehicles. The vehicle applications below are organized by year, make, and model to help identify vehicles associated with the 590-15 size. Explore the linked Make & Model and Year Make & Model pages for more detailed fitment information.
Fitment information should be verified for the specific vehicle before purchase. Confirm tire size, wheel fit, load requirements, overall diameter, and available clearance.
1949–19502 makes · 4 fitments
The 1949–1950 period includes 590-15 applications across Borgward and Willys. These early applications cover a small group of vehicles associated with this tire size.
Borgward
Borgward applications in this period include the Hansa.
Willys
Willys applications in this period include the Jeepster and VJ 3.
1951–195512 makes · 32 fitments
The 1951–1955 period includes a broad mix of 590-15 applications spanning Borgward, Henry J, Nash, Vauxhall, Willys, Holden, Volvo, Allard, Austin-Healey, Hudson, Kaiser, and Willys. This range reflects a diverse set of vehicles associated with the 590-15 size.
Borgward
Borgward applications in this period include the Hansa.
Henry J
Henry J applications in this period include the 513 Series, 523 Series, 524 Series, K533 Series, K534 Series, and 544 Series.
Nash
Nash fitment in this period is represented by the Rambler.
Vauxhall
Vauxhall applications in this period include the Velox and Cresta.
Willys
Willys applications in this period include the Arrow Series and 675 A-PC.
Holden
Holden fitment in this period is represented by the FJ.
Volvo
Volvo applications in this period include the PV 444 D & 445 and PV 444.
Allard
Allard fitment in this period is represented by the Palm Beach.
Austin-Healey
Austin-Healey fitment in this period is represented by the 100.
Hudson
Hudson fitment in this period is represented by the Jet.
Kaiser
Kaiser fitment in this period is represented by the 161 Darrin.
1956–196011 makes · 48 fitments
The 1956–1960 period includes a broad range of 590-15 applications spanning Allard, Austin-Healey, Holden, Porsche, Triumph, Vauxhall, Volvo, Standard, Rambler, Morris, and Daimler. This is one of the widest application ranges tied to the 590-15 size.
Allard
Allard applications in this period include the Palm Beach, Jag, Tourist, and Zepher.
Austin-Healey
Austin-Healey applications in this period include the 100, Healey, and 3000.
Holden
Holden fitment in this period is represented by the FJ.
Porsche
Porsche applications in this period include the Carrera and 1600.
Triumph
Triumph fitment in this period is represented by the TR3, TR4 & TR4A.
Vauxhall
Vauxhall applications in this period include the Cresta and Velox.
Volvo
Volvo applications in this period include the PV 444, Amazon & Sport, Amazon, and 122.
Standard
Standard fitment in this period is represented by the Vanguard.
Rambler
Rambler fitment in this period is represented by the American.
Morris
Morris fitment in this period is represented by the Oxford.
Daimler
Daimler fitment in this period is represented by the SP 250.
1961–19659 makes · 36 fitments
The 1961–1965 period includes 590-15 applications across Austin-Healey, Daimler, Morris, Peugeot, Porsche, Standard, Triumph, Volvo, Fiat, and Morgan. These years show continued use of the 590-15 size across a broad mix of imported vehicle applications.
Allard
Allard fitment in this period is represented by the Palm Beach.
Austin-Healey
Austin-Healey fitment in this period is represented by the 3000.
Daimler
Daimler fitment in this period is represented by the SP 250.
Morris
Morris fitment in this period is represented by the Oxford.
Peugeot
Peugeot fitment in this period is represented by the 404.
Porsche
Porsche fitment in this period is represented by the 1600.
Standard
Standard fitment in this period is represented by the Vanguard.
Triumph
Triumph fitment in this period is represented by the TR3, TR4 & TR4A.
Volvo
Volvo fitment in this period is represented by the 122.
Fiat
Fiat fitment in this period is represented by the 1800.
Morgan
Morgan fitment in this period is represented by the Plus 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is designed specifically for vehicles that originally used a 590-15 tire size and a 15-inch wheel. The product is intended for antique and collector vehicles from eras when bias ply construction was standard equipment. Verifying the original tire size listed in your owner's manual, factory literature, or existing tire sidewall is the safest way to confirm compatibility.
Because vintage sizing systems differ from modern metric tire sizes, buyers should avoid assuming a modern radial equivalent is automatically interchangeable. Even when a tire fits the wheel, overall diameter, section width, steering clearance, and vehicle stance can change. Confirming the original specification helps preserve proper appearance, handling characteristics, and speedometer
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is intended for use on 15-inch wheel applications, matching the wheel diameter indicated by the size designation. For most restoration projects, retaining the original wheel width and offset provides the most predictable fitment and preserves the tire's intended sidewall profile.
Wheel diameter alone does not guarantee compatibility. Wheel width, bead condition, and prior modifications can influence installation and performance. Owners of vehicles that have received aftermarket wheels, suspension upgrades, or brake conversions should verify clearances before purchase. A tire that matches factory specifications generally delivers the most authentic appearance and behavior on restored vehicles.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire was developed with authenticity as a primary goal. It features traditional bias ply construction, an authentic tread design, period-correct sidewall detailing, and manufacturing based on original molds. These characteristics make it well suited for restoration-focused projects.
The blackwall styling delivers a clean, understated appearance commonly seen on many original vehicles. Enthusiasts restoring classic trucks, British sports cars, and traditional hot rods often prefer blackwalls because they closely match period-correct presentations. The result is an appearance that complements factory styling rather than drawing attention away from the vehicle.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire balances authentic appearance with modern manufacturing quality. It is suitable for owners who participate in shows, cruise nights, club events, and occasional road use while maintaining a historically accurate look.
Drivers should remember that bias ply handling characteristics differ from modern radial tires. Steering response, tracking behavior, and road feel reflect period-correct technology rather than contemporary performance standards. Buyers seeking originality often consider that trade-off worthwhile because the tire preserves the vehicle's authentic driving character and visual presentation.
Tire Size Equivalents & Conversions â–¼
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is specifically intended as a replacement for vehicles originally equipped with a 590-15 tire size. Matching the original designation helps preserve factory ride height, wheel opening appearance, and overall proportions.
Owners restoring collector vehicles often prioritize maintaining original dimensions because even small changes can alter stance and visual balance. Using the correct size also reduces the risk of speedometer deviations, clearance concerns, and appearance changes that may result from substituting a significantly different tire size.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire contributes directly to a vehicle's ride height and visual stance because tire diameter represents a significant portion of overall vehicle height. Matching the original tire size generally maintains the intended factory appearance.
Many enthusiasts underestimate how noticeable tire size changes can be. Even modest differences in overall diameter may alter wheel gap, fender relationship, and body attitude. For restoration-focused projects, preserving the original 590-15 sizing helps maintain the proportions designers intended when the vehicle was first produced.
Matching the BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire size helps preserve originality, which is often a major goal for restorations. Tire size influences stance, ride height, wheel well appearance, steering geometry, and speedometer operation.
Many buyers focus on visual appearance alone, but size selection also affects how the vehicle behaves on the road. Maintaining the original tire specification reduces guesswork and helps ensure the finished vehicle retains the proportions, driving characteristics, and overall presentation expected from a historically accurate restoration.
Performance & Use Case â–¼
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire delivers a driving experience consistent with the era in which bias ply tires were originally used. Steering feel, lane tracking, and road feedback differ noticeably from modern radial designs, reflecting the technology available during the vehicle's production period.
Drivers transitioning from radials may initially notice greater sensitivity to pavement grooves and surface irregularities. While modern radials generally offer more relaxed highway behavior, many enthusiasts prefer bias ply tires because they preserve the authentic character of a vintage vehicle and provide a historically accurate driving experience.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire provides steering feedback characteristic of traditional bias ply construction. Many enthusiasts describe the sensation as more connected to the road, although it may require greater driver attention than a modern radial tire.
Steering feel can also be influenced by tire pressure, vehicle weight distribution, and suspension condition. Because vintage steering systems often have different geometry than modern vehicles, maintaining factory specifications helps achieve predictable behavior and allows the tire to perform as intended.
Bias ply construction naturally reacts differently to pavement irregularities than radial construction. The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire may follow grooves, expansion joints, or worn pavement more readily than a modern radial tire.
This behavior is normal and reflects the tire's traditional design. Drivers familiar with vintage vehicles often consider it part of the authentic driving experience. Proper inflation, suspension maintenance, and alignment settings can help reduce unwanted wandering and improve confidence on highways with uneven pavement surfaces.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is primarily aimed at owners who value authenticity, historical accuracy, and vintage appearance. It recreates the construction and styling associated with classic vehicles while benefiting from modern manufacturing processes.
Buyers focused on maximum cornering performance or contemporary handling characteristics may prefer radial alternatives. However, enthusiasts seeking a factory-correct presentation often consider bias ply construction essential. The tire allows a restored vehicle to look and behave much closer to its original specifications.
Construction, Durability & Load Capacity â–¼
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire uses traditional bias ply construction. The tire's reinforcing cords run diagonally across the casing and overlap in a crisscross pattern, which was the standard design used on passenger cars and light trucks for decades.
This construction contributes significantly to the tire's authentic appearance and driving characteristics. Enthusiasts restoring antique vehicles often prefer bias ply tires because they replicate original equipment more closely than modern radial alternatives. The result is a tire that aligns with historical accuracy goals while utilizing modern production quality.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire combines traditional construction with modern rubber compounds. This provides improved material quality while preserving the authentic design characteristics desired by collectors and restoration enthusiasts.
Durability depends heavily on maintenance, inflation pressure, alignment condition, storage practices, and driving habits. Owners who regularly inspect tires and maintain proper operating conditions generally achieve the best long-term results. Like any collector vehicle tire, consistent care plays a major role in service life.
Installation & Maintenance â–¼
Mixing bias ply and radial tires can alter vehicle behavior because the two constructions respond differently to steering inputs and road surfaces. The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is engineered around bias ply characteristics.
Owners should carefully evaluate any mixed-construction setup before proceeding. Consistency across all positions generally produces more predictable handling and road manners. Buyers pursuing authenticity typically choose a complete bias ply package to maintain uniform performance characteristics.
The BFGoodrich Silvertown Blackwall 590-15 Bias Ply Tire is best suited to buyers who value originality, authentic appearance, and period-correct driving behavior. Understanding the characteristics of bias ply construction helps establish realistic expectations before purchase.
Owners should consider factors such as pavement tracking, inflation sensitivity, speedometer preservation through proper sizing, clearance during suspension compression, and consistent maintenance. Buyers who appreciate vintage driving dynamics often find these characteristics acceptable because the tire closely reflects the appearance and behavior associated with classic automobiles.


