Gilbern GT Tyres
1966 Gilbern GT
Gilburn GT 1959–1967
- The 1962 GT Mark 1 fitted 520 - 13 crossply tyres.
- The only crossply tyre in the 520 - 13 size is the 5.20 x 13 Camac. This is a budget tyre however, we suggest switching to more modern radial tyres.
- The ideal radial equivalent size to 520 - 13 is 145 R13. In the 145 R13 size, we recommend the 145R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67 and the 145HR13 Michelin XAS FF.
- In 1963, Gilburn GT models switched to larger 590 - 13 tyres.
- The only crossply in this size is the 5.90 x 13 Camac, as a budget crossply, we would instead recommend radial tyres.
- The 590 - 13 radial equivalent size is 165 R13. The best Gilburn GT tyres in the 165 R13 size are the 165R13 PIRELLI CINTURATO CN36 and the 165 HR 13 Michelin XAS FF.
- In 1964, new GT models switched to 590 - 14 tyres.
- 590 - 14 crossply tyres are not currently in production, we suggest switching to 165 R14 radial tyres.
- The best 165 R14 Gilburn GT tyres are the 165 HR 14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67 and the 165R14 Michelin XAS.
- The 1965–1967 Gilburn 1800 GT and GT 1800 also fitted 5.90-14 tyres. We recommend the 165 HR 14 PIRELLI CINTURATO CA67 or the 165R14 Michelin XAS.
Gilbern GT Advert
1969 Stone and Cox Gilburn GT Tyre Fitment Guide
Gilburn GT Innertubes
- The correct tube for 520 - 13 and 145 R13 tyres is the Michelin 13CG.
- The innertube for 590 - 13 and 165 R13 tyres is the Michelin 13D.
- The correct tube for 590 - 14 and 165 R14 tyres is the Michelin 14D.
Gilbern GT Recommended Tyres
Other Options for Gilbern GT Tyres
Gilburn GT
Gilburn GT History
Gilbern Sports Cars (Components) Ltd was founded by Giles Smith, a former butcher, and Bernard Friese, a German engineer and former POW with experience in glass fibre mouldings. The business was one of the few in Wales that produced cars. The first Gilbern automobile was inspired by a one-off car that Friese had built for himself.
Giles Smith's first three letters and Bernard Friese's first four letters combined to form the name "Gilbern."
Gilbern had trouble making engines since they bought limited amounts of engines and gearboxes from local dealers, which prevented them from qualifying for trade discounts. Gilburn struggled financially throughout its life, ultimately closing its doors in 1973 after a series of sales and takeovers.
Gilburn GT Logo
The GT
The 948 cc BMC A-Series engine (optionally fitted with a Shorrock supercharger) or the 1098 cc Coventry Climax engine were the two powertrain options for the GT Mk 1. The front suspension was originally taken from an Austin A35, and the chassis was constructed from square steel tubing. One single moulding made up the car's body.
The body was entirely painted and trimmed, even though it was typically offered as a kit; the buyer simply needed to install mechanical elements including the engine, wheels, back axle, exhaust system, gearbox, and minor trim components. Later versions of the GT had a B-series 1500 or 1600 cc MGA or 1800 cc MGB engine and a coil-sprung BMC rear axle. The car was dubbed the GT 1800 after the larger engine was installed.
An engine displacement of 1600 cc (ex MGA) powered a GT that The Motor magazine tested in 1961. Its highest speed was 94.3 mph, and its acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took 13.8 seconds. Additionally, the test yielded a fuel economy of 35 mpg US (8.1 L/100 km; 35 mpg IA). The cost of the tested vehicle was £978, taxed at £251.