Firestone | Truck Tread | 700-20

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is built for 20-inch wheels and lists a recommended 5-inch rim width, so original wheels matching that size are the best starting point. Many restored commercial trucks from the 1920s through 1950s used narrow multi-piece or heavy-duty 20-inch wheels, making wheel measurement important before ordering. Confirm bead seat diameter and actual rim width rather than relying only on old markings.

The 35-inch overall diameter and 6.90-inch section width also affect fitment beyond wheel diameter alone. Check fender clearance, steering arm clearance, and rear dual spacing if applicable. A truck with worn springs or altered suspension height may have less clearance under compression than factory specifications suggest.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is a tall bias ply truck tire, so steering effort can feel heavier than smaller or modern radial alternatives, especially on manual steering trucks during parking maneuvers. Tall tires create leverage at the contact patch, and vintage steering systems often have slower ratios and more friction than modern designs.

Inflation pressure, front axle weight, alignment, and wheel width all influence steering feel. Underinflation increases scrub and can make low-speed turning noticeably harder. Proper kingpin condition and correct toe settings help as much as tire choice. Once moving, steering effort usually drops, though response remains more vintage than modern.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 uses an older numeric sizing system, so there is no perfect one-number modern equivalent. Matching overall diameter, load ability, and mounted width matters more than copying a label. With a 35-inch diameter and narrow 6.90-inch section width, the tire is tall and relatively slim compared with many modern truck sizes.

Many modern replacements become wider than expected, which can create steering and clearance issues on vintage trucks. A wider radial may fit the wheel opening yet rub springs or fenders. The safest approach is comparing measured dimensions, wheel width requirements, and intended use rather than relying on a conversion chart alone.

At 35 inches tall, the Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is larger in diameter than many common modern light truck tires. Diameter influences gearing, cruise rpm, and visual stance more than tread style alone. Trucks currently running smaller replacements may sit lower and turn higher rpm than they would with the original-style size.

Moving back to a 35-inch diameter can improve period-correct proportions, but always recheck clearance at the front axle and rear wheel openings. Larger diameter tires swing through a bigger arc while turning. Speedometer readings can also change, especially if the truck has used undersized tires for years.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 can replace mixed sizes, but first determine why mixed sizes were installed. Some old trucks received mismatched tires because correct sizes were unavailable, while others were altered to change gearing or stance. Restoring one consistent size usually improves balance, braking behavior, and appearance.

Measure current diameters front and rear, inspect wheel widths, and verify load needs before converting all positions. On dual rear trucks, matching all tires becomes even more important. Mixed diameters can create uneven load sharing and drivetrain strain. A consistent set usually simplifies maintenance and rotation planning.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 delivers a traditional vintage driving feel consistent with period truck tires. Expect slower steering response and more feedback through the wheel than modern radials. Many owners appreciate that authentic character because it matches the mechanical personality of older trucks.

Road surface changes are more noticeable with bias ply construction. Grooves, patched pavement, and crowned roads can influence tracking more than with modern tires. Proper alignment and inflation help significantly. For local drives, events, and moderate-speed cruising, the experience feels authentic rather than overly modernized.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is a strong fit for fully restored trucks because it combines authentic Firestone branding, period styling, and bias ply construction. Visual correctness matters on judged restorations, and modern-looking tires can quickly break the era-correct appearance of an otherwise accurate build.

The blackwall sidewall also suits working-truck aesthetics better than decorative sidewall treatments. For trucks that are trailered or driven lightly, compromises in modern handling are usually minor concerns. Buyers focused on presentation and originality often place this type of tire high on the list.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 lists a maximum load capacity of 3150 pounds at 90 psi, showing it is built for serious vintage truck duty when used correctly. That rating provides useful capacity for many restored commercial trucks carrying moderate cargo or equipment.

Actual safe loading depends on axle ratings, wheel condition, suspension health, and using the correct number of tires. Never judge capacity by tire rating alone. Inflation pressure must match the intended load, because underinflation increases heat and casing stress. Sensible loading practices remain essential on older vehicles.

For occasional hobby use, the Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 should provide solid service when stored and maintained properly. Seasonal cruises, events, and fair-weather driving are generally easier on tires than daily commercial use. Proper inflation and avoiding overload are major contributors to longevity.

Storage conditions matter just as much as mileage. Keep the truck away from prolonged sunlight, ozone sources, and moisture when parked. Regular inspections for cracking, uneven wear, or impact damage help catch issues early. Vintage tires reward attentive ownership more than neglect.

The 8 ply poly specification indicates a heavy-duty construction level intended for truck service. It reflects strength and load-support capability rather than meaning eight visible layers in a simple literal sense. For buyers, it signals a tire built with commercial-duty expectations.

That construction can support heavier applications when used within rated limits, but ride feel may be firmer than lighter passenger-car tires. Inflation choice becomes important because very high pressure without corresponding load can affect comfort and footprint shape. Use vehicle needs, not maximum pressure alone, as the guide.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is listed as a tube type tire, so an appropriate inner tube is required for correct installation. Tube type construction is common on vintage truck applications using older wheel designs. Using the proper tube and valve stem style is part of a safe setup.

The product page also shows compatible tube options, which is a useful reminder not to reuse unknown old tubes. A fresh tube reduces the chance of age-related failures. Inspect the wheel carefully for rust, burrs, or damage before assembly.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 is best mounted by a shop experienced with vintage truck wheels and tube-type assemblies. Older commercial wheels can differ greatly from modern one-piece rims, and some require specialized procedures and safety equipment.

This is especially important if the truck uses multi-piece or lock-ring wheels. Incorrect handling can be dangerous. A qualified installer can also inspect wheel condition, confirm tube compatibility, and set inflation properly. Professional mounting is usually the safest path for heavy vintage truck tires.

The Firestone Truck Tread 700-20 should be visually inspected before drives and more thoroughly at regular service intervals. Look for cuts, cracking, embedded debris, uneven wear, and pressure loss. Collector vehicles often sit long enough for slow issues to go unnoticed.

A deeper inspection after longer trips is wise, especially on loaded trucks or in hot weather. Check valve stems, tube retention, and wheel hardware condition where applicable. Frequent inspections are one of the simplest ways to avoid roadside problems on older vehicles.