Date:         Wed, 16 Feb 2005 05:30:58 -0800
Reply-To:     Pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Pensioner <al_knoll@PACBELL.NET>
Subject:      Re: Syncro.org Suspension problems
In-Reply-To:  <200502160501.j1G51NHs004739@ylpvm49.prodigy.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Per the query a few days ago.   As I mentioned to the proprietor of
syncro.org long ago, the combination of OME shocks and springs purchased
from SS was not a good solution for my SVX Westy Syncro.  Using BFG
215/75-15 AT/KO tires properly inflated the van exhibited a dangerous
oversteer condition.  Evasive action or rapid lane changing was scary at
best.  The proprietor made many excuses and accusations personally but never
made any attempt to resolve the matter.  On the advice of a fellow syncro
owner, I swapped in the SA rear shocks (thanks Bill and Eric).  The problem
disappeared, and life is good.

So I do not recommend using the Syncro.org suspension if you have a 5000lb
syncro with the additional 200lbs of Subaru powerplant.  The resulting
oversteer characteristics can lead to disaster.  The combination of Betts
springs and SA dampers makes for a much safer syncro although the
rough-stuff handling may be slightly decreased due to the higher damping
factor of the SA shocks.

I have a local dealer who handles OME and we are pursuing a stiffer OME
solution for the Syncro SVX