The 215/65-16 tire is basically a 27" tire as compared to the original 25.5". The native load rating for a normal tire is 98 which makes it adequate for a Vanagon. Truck series tires in this size will get you up to as much as a 109 load index. This size will have an acceleration and braking penalty. With some effort you should be able to squeeze it into the spare tire carrier. It is a great size for Syncros. If what you really want is handling, I suggest a 225/60-16. This is a popular tire size readily available and still a native 98 load index. The height is 26.5" which is a great compromise and fills out the wheel wells real nice. This size works great on 2WD and automatics. It will not get into the spare tire carrier. Dennis
-----Original Message----- From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Warren Lail Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 3:20 PM To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM Subject: Gowesty wheels Okay, I've gotten some wonderful feedback on the Gowesty tire/wheel combo. Some people love them, some people like them, and some people think they're dangerous. There seems to be a broad consensus, however, regarding the tires. Most people think that if I want the GoWesty rims to get them, and then have Michelin Hydroedge 215/65R/16 tires installed (available at Tire Rack). So, it would be a bit more trouble, but do most of you think the 215/65R/16 is way better than the 215/60/16 that GoWesty offers? I'm not sure why .. is the load rating different?? I'll do some more research on Tire Rack's website to find out. Thanks in advance, and I love this list (I've been lovin' it since 1998). Warren in Santa Fe 88 Westy Subie 2.2 |
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