Date: Fri, 26 Aug 2016 17:13:57 -0400
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Carat Considering 16 inch wheels.
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
I didn't see anyone reply to the tire question so here goes. Going to a larger diameter wheel does not mean you will end up with a larger diameter tire. The choices are almost exclusive except for what is available and which has adequate load/speed capacity. The factory tires are somewhere around 25.5 inches diameter. Slightly smaller for the 205/70-14. A 205/60-16 would be the same size. There would be little benefit and finding a reinforced tire in this size is near impossible.
Going to a 215/60-16 would only increase the diameter around 1/2 inch. The gearing and brakes will not feel a noticeable difference. This tire is readily available in reinforced versions with a load index of 99. Considering your location and usage I would strongly recommend this deal.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0100OCAW6/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_11?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
This is an awesome touring tire with great handling, quiet ride, long life, and works great in wet weather. It is also available for great price.
You could also go to a 225/60-16. This is about 1 inch taller than original and has an even greater load capacity due to the increased dimeter and width. Standard capacity load index is 98 and the reinforced versions are 102. Breaking and gearing here is still a reasonable compromise. This tire will not fit in the spare tire carrier. The Nokian above is also available in this size with the XL rating.
For wheels consider these:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C6CS4BM/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_12?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A16FDLXZT0LPG
Direct fit and rated for 1,800 pound load. Also for a very reasonable price. Don’t forget you will need lug nuts/bolts to go with these.
Once you go with the 16 wheels you will have the option to upgrade the front brakes. This is money well spent if you like to drive hard. If you should need rotors, calipers, and hoses, the one-time incremental cost is really just the hubs and bearings. A bit painful first time. For normal driving the rears are just fine. Maybe go for the GoWesty HD drums.
Hope this helps
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of John Rodgers
Sent: Wednesday, August 24, 2016 12:22 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Carat
Enjoying driving my Carat, now with a new 2.1 L wbx engine and new auto tranny. It is sweet. Working on some little odds and end to bring it all the way up to near perfect.
A few questions.
It starts easier in neutral than in park. Wondering what thats about.
Contemplating putting on new 16 in. rims and appropriate tires, but have concerns about adequate braking wth the bigger tires. Anyone with experience on this?
Thanks,
John
