Bias ply or Radial???

[comicaltatertot]

So I have a 1955 Chevy 3100 and pretty soon I am sure that is going to need some new tires. Now for bias ply they charge you an arm an leg for a set of them. So I was thinking about going to low profile radial tires. I do not have power steering on this truck and do not plan on putting it on just stickin with the ol arm strong steering.
First question is what thickness of sidewall should I look for?
and will having radials make it even more of arm strong steering?
I have heard radials will be alright but I have also heard that I don't want to get them cause it will change the way it drives. Any input would be appreciated. Thank!