If the answer has been asked before please direct me. I need front and rear tires for my TO-35 deluxe 1958 model (it is Miss November 2014). My tractor is not restored but in fine shape. I can get 12.4-28 4 ply from a local fella, He will order them for me for 256.00 each and they are BKT tires. I want good tires and close to original as maybe down the road maybe we will restore this little tractor… or should I just get these BKT tires. August 16, 2014.
Yes, the proper size rear tire for your TO-35 is the 12.4 x 28, 4 ply, in a bias ply design. This is the equivalent to the original size that came on the tractor. The original tires were Goodyear in the 45 degree tread style. I don’t believe Goodyear has that style tread available anymore though there was talk that they were going to reissue that tread pattern.
Your best option I think is to get tires that have that original style 45 degree tread and not worry about the brand. I am not familiar with the BKT brand but know there are several overseas manufacturers making tires in the original 45 degree tread design.
BF Goodrich here in the US was still making the 45 degree tread design and I have those tires on my TO-20. The rear tires should be inflated to 12 lbs. The front tires were Goodyear 6.00 x 16, 4 ply, 3 rib design. The 3 rib tread pattern is still available from many manufacturers.
The outer ribs were solid and not the notched style used on Fords. I don’t know if BKT makes this tire in that design. The front tires should be inflated to 28 lbs. I would install new tubes when you install new tires. New tires are a substantial investment and if you are not ready to make that commitment yet you may be able to salvage your old rear tires.
If the casing is in relatively good shape a local tire shop may be able to vulcanize the damaged area. This is a repair that melts a rubber patch into the damaged area. Other popular options farmers have used over the years include, tire boots and reliners.
A tire boot is a piece of rubber with tapered edges. These are usually made from recycled tires, new or good used. The boot is glued in place inside the tire to cover the damaged area and keep the tube from being damaged. If the break is not very large a boot may provide several additional years of service.
Still another option is a reliner. A reliner is like a giant boot that goes inside part or all of the tire to reinforce a damaged tire carcass. These are just some old fashioned tire fixes that farmers used. If you are not ready to spend the money on new tires, these may work for now.
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