Date:         Wed, 28 Feb 2001 03:27:03 EST
Reply-To:     Oxroad@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jeffrey R <Oxroad@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: tire advice from the wisdom of ages....
Comments: To: SBWC919@aol.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

In a message dated 2/27/2001 3:44:49 PM Pacific Standard Time,
SBWC919@AOL.COM writes:

> what have you non westy folks been running? i am a cheap scotsman- i dont
>  want to pay a ton of money for tires!

Brian--

FWIW I just spoke with Michelin (I beg pardon from those who know this is old
talk) and they recommended the MX reinforced in a 185X14 for the Vanagon
UNLESS the rear tire pressure called for by VW is 40 pounds or more. I think
my 83 Westy calls for 40 pounds on the rear wheels. If this is the case
Michelin recommends the Agilis 61 in a 185X14. They tell me the 195X14 is not
avaialable in the states. My local tire dealer, Discount Tire offers the
Michelin MX reinforced for $99 a piece and the Agilis 61 for $97 a piece.
there has been debate on the list as to the availability of these tires.
Michelin says they are available, but I wasn't talking to someone who
instilled a lot of confidence in me.

Having said that, those sound a little pricey for your needs. Costco sells a
tire under the brand name "Kirkland" I believe that is a C load rating,
correct for the Vanagon, and is about the cheapest Vanagon tire I personally
know of. Although I can't quote the exact price I think they are around $70 a
piece in a 185X14.

Jeff
83.5 Westy
LA,CA