Date:         Fri, 26 Aug 2016 17:48:22 -0400
Reply-To:     Eric Caron <ecaron1@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Eric Caron <ecaron1@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Carat Considering 16 inch wheels.
In-Reply-To:  <BAY405-EAS431E35FB8709F38000025F3A0EC0@phx.gbl>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8

Hi Denis and others,

        I tried to look at these options on Amazon.  they certainly sound reasonably priced as a way of upgrading to 16 inch wheels. 
        Denis, will these really just fit as long as I have the correct lug nuts and bolts?  and if so any links to those.
        I was hesitant to invest in the upgrade but if this really helps with handling I’d be happy to do it at this price.  

If I looked at the correct items it is $80 for the wheel and $75 for the tire. About $620 for the upgrade.

        I would really miss my Bay window hub caps.

Also,Amazon says this wheel will not fit my van!

Eric Caron 
85 GL Auto 


> On Aug 26, 2016, at 5:13 PM, Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM> wrote:
> 
> 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