Yes, you are right, 80-83 models had the early standard springs, not the taller 84-85 springs. I am currently researching the details to a finer degree.

It appears that in early years the Westy used the same springs as passenger models of the same year. IMHO, the tallest springs were the very last 1985 models, which got springs that were from then on only used on Westys beginning with 1986.

Syncro FRONT springs are much shorter than 2wd springs. Syncro REAR spring are much taller than 2wd springs. Syncro uses same rear suspension but different front suspension is why.

As for question 4, who gets to determine what makes a better ride?

Mark

Jeff Oxroad wrote:

> As long as we're on the subject. What is the wisdom on the ride height of the > Vanagon. > > 1. My 83.5 Westy is a fine height, but it seems lower than some (non-syncro) > 84 and 85s I see. I'm jealous of the extra height for both clearance and I > think it give a more desirable more agressive visual effect. Were the "taller" > springs more like 84 and 85, not so much 83? > > 2. Do Westys and Passenger busses use the same springs, and due to weight > does the Westy ride a little lower? > > 3. Will the Syncro springs, which I'm guessing are much more agressive, and I > assume taller fit a 2WD? > > 4. As far as taller or shorter springs, does one or the other offer a better > ride? > > Thanks, > Jeff > 83.5 Westy > LA,CA > > In a message dated 10/14/2006 10:29:44 AM Pacific Standard Time, > mdrillock@COX.NET writes: > Yellow was used in some tall early years(83-85 Campers?) as well as > later lowered passenger models, different numbers, visibly longer > earlier spring. >