Date:         Tue, 5 Jun 2001 11:43:55 -0600
Reply-To:     John Silverman <jsilver@AROS.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Silverman <jsilver@AROS.NET>
Subject:      suspension and wheels
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com, syncro@yahoo.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

I'm sending this to both the Vanagon and syncro lists, so if you're on
both, you'll get it twice, sorry.

We have a 90 syncro westy w/90 k miles.  Still on original shocks/springs,
and riding on Yokohama Y370  195/75 R14.  It's bouncy and squirrelly,
especially in crowsswinds.  I'm interested in making the ride smoother and
more stable in the crosswinds.  Considering new tires, 15" wheels w/ new
tires, new shocks, and even new springs.  How am I going to get the most
bang for my buck?  in terms of better ride and stability?    We aren't
passionate 4wheelers, but do go offroad a bit. We do drive a lot in snow.

Also, regarding wheels.  The local hupcap heaven (Retailer of hubcaps and
wheels, lots of takeoffs hubcapheavenandwheels.com) has 98 and up Passat
steel wheels for about $45 (they'll sell 5 for $35 apeice, they said on the
phone).  Are these bolt on for syncro, s/o adapters?  strong enough?
correct offset?  They also have lotsa other wheels that are take-offs, and
probably lots cheaper than new.  Any other suggestions for wheels that are
bolt on and the correct size/offset/strength?  Advantage of steel vs alloy?

Thanks,
John
SLC
90 syncro westy