How to Measure Tire Sizes
When you want matching sized tires for your vehicle, sometimes it is easy. When you need a 235/75-15 tire just ask for it by number. Complications occur when the number system on a tire is completely different. All you may know, that is interpretable in such a situation, is you need a 15 inch tire and they have one. That is not enough information to pick the proper tire.
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Instructions
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One way, to match up tires with different number systems, is to place the tires side by side. If you can't read the numbers, get a measuring tape or yard stick, to verify you are pairing up two 15 inch tires for example. (The internal dimensions of the tire (the hole) will be 15 inches, if it is designed to go on a 15 inch rim.
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To verify the two 15 inch tires are a match in height, you can compare the tires while they are side by side. When placing the tires side by side is not convenient, measure the external dimensions of each tire. Ideally, you want the tires to be exactly the same height, but sometimes this is not possible, especially in rush situations. Get as close a match in height as you can. In emergencies, you may have to settle for a tire that's over an inch different in height.
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You can also compare tread width by placing the tires together end to end or measuring the tread width with a tape measure. Exact same tread width is not as important as the previous dimensions mentioned. However, a 6 inch wide rim can not handle a 12 inch wide tire or vice versus.
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Tips & Warnings
There are other ways to determine tire size. See the source below for figuring out common numbered tires. A tire calculator can also be used.
