Model A Ford
Model A Ford Tires, Wheels & Accessories
Coker Tire Company offers several authentic Model A tires in both blackwall and whitewall styles. Whether your Model A is stock or wildly custom, Coker Tire Company has a premium bias ply repalcement tire for your application.
Model A Ford Complete Packages
Building 'A' Masterpiece
Henry Ford's successful Model T revolutionized the automobile manufacturing process, but it was the Model A that pushed the more efficiently produced and affordable Fords to such legendary status. What the Tin Lizzies did for affordability and mass production, the Model A Ford did for style. It was reliable, powerful and set the standard for how a passenger car should look and drive. Hundreds of variants of the Model A Ford were produced from 1928 to 1931, reaching nearly 5 million units when production stopped in March of 1932. The Model A Ford has since become iconic for both collectors and hot rodders.
Life of Tread Warranty
Our tires are guaranteed to be free from defects in workmanship and materials for the life of the tread, some exclusions apply. Adjustment is made on a prorated basis (you pay for tread wear used). We are not responsible for tire and tube failure due to improper mounting, mechanical failure, or improper alignment of the vehicle. Coker Tire does not offer any guarantee of fitment for any particular purpose and limits its liability to the purchase price of the item. All tires and tubes should be installed by properly trained individuals. Warranty returns also require an RMA number. Some exclusions apply.
Our Life of the Tread Warranty is the best in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fitment & Compatibility â–¼
How do Model A Ford tires differ from modern passenger car tires in fitment? â–¼
Model A Ford tires feature a tall overall diameter and narrow section width, creating a large sidewall profile compared to modern passenger tires. This design supports the original suspension geometry and provides necessary ground clearance for early chassis designs.
Modern tires typically use lower aspect ratios and wider contact patches, which can interfere with fenders, steering linkage, and brake components on Model A platforms. Maintaining correct proportions helps preserve steering response, prevents rubbing during suspension compression, and ensures compatibility with original or reproduction wheels.
What should be considered when selecting rim diameter for Model A Ford tires? â–¼
Rim diameter selection must align with factory-correct wheel sizes commonly found on Model A vehicles, including both 19-inch and 21-inch configurations. Each diameter affects overall tire height, which influences ride height, gearing feel, and speedometer accuracy.
A larger overall diameter can increase rolling distance per rotation, slightly reducing engine RPM at cruising speeds. However, incorrect diameter selection may cause clearance issues within fenders or interfere with suspension travel. Maintaining proportional alignment between rim diameter and tire profile is essential for proper operation.
Tire Construction â–¼
What types of tire construction are available for Model A Ford tires? â–¼
Model A Ford tires are primarily available in bias ply construction, along with some radial options designed to replicate the bias ply look. Bias ply tires use layered cords arranged diagonally, creating a flexible sidewall and period-correct appearance.
Radial options incorporate modern internal construction while maintaining a vintage-style sidewall. Each construction type affects ride comfort, handling characteristics, and heat management. Understanding these differences helps align tire choice with intended driving use and authenticity goals.
What advantages do radial tires offer for Model A Ford applications? â–¼
Radial tires offer improved stability, a flatter contact patch, and better heat dissipation compared to bias ply construction. These characteristics enhance highway drivability and provide more predictable handling during longer drives.
Radial construction can also reduce rolling resistance and improve tread life. However, sidewall stiffness differs from bias ply designs, which may slightly alter ride feel and steering feedback. Radial options are often chosen for vehicles that see frequent road use rather than purely period-correct restoration.
How does sidewall profile differ between bias ply and radial tires? â–¼
Bias ply tires feature a more rounded sidewall profile, contributing to a softer ride and traditional appearance. This design allows for greater flex, which suits early suspension systems.
Radial tires have a more vertical sidewall profile, resulting in a flatter tread contact patch. This improves grip and directional stability but reduces the soft, cushioned feel associated with bias ply construction. Sidewall behavior directly impacts steering response and ride comfort.
How does construction choice impact steering characteristics? â–¼
Bias ply tires produce a more relaxed steering response with gradual transitions during cornering. This aligns with original vehicle dynamics and provides a traditional driving experience.
Radial tires deliver more direct steering feedback and improved tracking on straight roads. Steering effort may feel lighter or more consistent depending on setup. Construction choice directly influences driver control, especially during highway travel or frequent directional changes.
Performance & Durability â–¼
What type of driving are Model A Ford tires designed for? â–¼
Model A Ford tires are primarily designed for moderate-speed driving, including city roads, rural routes, and occasional highway use. The tall sidewall and narrow tread reflect early automotive design priorities focused on comfort and durability rather than high-speed performance.
These tires perform well in controlled conditions but require mindful driving at modern highway speeds. Road conditions, temperature, and load all influence performance. Understanding realistic expectations helps maintain safety and prolong tire life.
How do Model A Ford tires handle on modern roads? â–¼
Model A Ford tires provide a stable but less aggressive grip compared to modern tires. Narrow section width and rounded contact patch result in predictable but slower response during cornering.
Road surfaces today are smoother and faster than those originally intended, which can highlight limitations in grip and braking. Drivers may notice increased stopping distances and reduced lateral stability. Adjusting driving style helps compensate for these characteristics.
What level of durability can be expected from bias ply tires? â–¼
Bias ply tires offer durable construction suitable for lighter vehicles and moderate use. Proper maintenance, including inflation and alignment, plays a major role in longevity.
Durability can be affected by heat buildup and uneven wear patterns if tires are used extensively at higher speeds. Regular inspection helps identify issues early and ensures consistent performance over time.
How does tire pressure influence performance and wear? â–¼
Tire pressure directly affects contact patch shape, ride quality, and heat generation. Underinflation increases sidewall flex, leading to higher heat and potential structural stress.
Overinflation reduces contact patch size, which can decrease grip and cause uneven wear. Maintaining correct pressure ensures balanced performance, optimal durability, and consistent handling across different driving conditions.
Appearance, Styling & Authenticity â–¼
What sidewall styles are common for Model A Ford tires? â–¼
Model A Ford tires are available in blackwall and wide whitewall styles, both reflecting period-correct aesthetics. Blackwall tires offer a more understated and utilitarian appearance.
Wide whitewalls provide a more distinctive and classic visual presence, often associated with restored or show-quality vehicles. Sidewall style selection plays a major role in defining the overall look of the vehicle.
What defines an authentic Model A Ford tire appearance? â–¼
Authentic appearance is defined by correct proportions, sidewall profile, and period-correct branding or tread design. Bias ply construction plays a major role in maintaining visual accuracy.
Maintaining original dimensions ensures the vehicle retains its intended stance. Deviations in width or profile can disrupt visual balance, even if performance improves. Authenticity often requires careful attention to these details.
How do radial tires maintain a vintage appearance? â–¼
Radial tires designed for Model A Ford applications often include bias look sidewalls to replicate traditional styling. This allows improved performance without sacrificing visual authenticity.
Sidewall lettering, tread design, and proportions are carefully engineered to match historical patterns. This approach supports drivers who want modern drivability while preserving the classic appearance.
Installation, Maintenance & Longevity â–¼
How should Model A Ford tires be stored when not in use? â–¼
Proper storage involves keeping tires in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and UV light can degrade rubber over time.
Storing tires off the ground and maintaining stable temperature conditions helps preserve structural integrity. Long-term storage practices directly influence tire longevity and performance.
How often should tire pressure be checked? â–¼
Regular pressure checks help maintain optimal performance and prevent uneven wear. Pressure can fluctuate due to temperature changes and natural air loss over time.
Checking pressure before extended drives ensures consistent handling and reduces the risk of overheating. Maintaining correct pressure is one of the most effective ways to extend tire life.