ha ha, I thought my dad was the only one who had encountered this problem, it was a turd trying to track down 16.5 apparently they can be less safe cuz when they blow
i guess the bead is susceptible to blowin right off the rim or somethin like that. dumb question but did you check out tirerack.com, also if they show none available call em up an talk to a rep because they may only make a limited set quantity from the factory, but they might be able to tell you who to get in touch with

 

The beads blow off because people mount them on 16'' rims either by mistake or because they don't know the difference. 20 years ago every tire manufacturer out there made 16.5's but times are changin. Try a commercial tire dealer, most have several wholesalers they deal with and might be able to come up with somthing.

 

I have them, but only got them to run military surplus 37's. Don't think you can really find much for them anymore other than mil spec and Swampers.

 

I've got 16.5's and i've seen prices of about $400+ per tire (for just the rubber)... I figure for about $500 more (altogether) i can step up to 17 or 18" wheels and tires and eliminate this problem next time i need some new rubbers... JMO...

Another option is the Millitary Hummer tires, they are mad aggressive from what i hear...

 

If you do want to upgrade, try craigslist or ebay. If you want to stay with 16.5's, i got my tires from petboys. I think the biggest size was like a 31, 32 or 33's. Check it out if you have a store near you. As far as the army surplus depot, the smallest hummer tire is a 37 on a 16.5" rim size. I know because i work at a military maintenence facility, also army retired.

 

They also have the 36/12.50/16.5 off the Hummers, but it is a bias ply.

 

I would suggest trying to get into some 17's or 18's for the weight rating and availibility. Pro Comp just stop manufacturing their 33x12.50R16.5 A/T's.

Good Luck finding a new set.

 

What's the story with 16.5" rims?
Did any trucks ever come with 16.5"s?

 

To my knowledge the 50+ year old 16.5 was designed to increase strength and high run a higher psi than what was available at the time. Also steel was the main metal used and I am sure the design was also passed down from the semi wheel design. Now with new designs and technology we have many more options in aluminum that have a higher load capacity and a built in safety bead.

Pro Comp discontinued the 33x12.50R16.5 A/T.

They are still avilable in a Mud & All Terrain until the supply runs out.

If anyone wants the 33x12.50R16.5 let us know.

 

You mind explaining the "built in safety bead" to me ?