Date:         Sat, 21 Mar 1998 11:28:55 -0400
Reply-To:     Tim Smith <smitht@UNB.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Tim Smith <smitht@UNB.CA>
Subject:      Audi 15x6 steel rim, FYI
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Hi,

Had a few requests for info on the dealer supplied 15" steel rims I've put
on the Syncro.

part #'s   616 3E      15Jx6H2     ET45       KPZ

This is what's stamped on the hub face, KPZ is the makers logo? ET45 is the
offset, and I am running these rims without any spacer plate with no probs.
The 235/75/15 MTs are a tad big (29.2x9.3), go for 225/75/15 (about
28.3x9.1) for Syncros, 205/60/15 for stock diam/road.  Close spots are at
back edge of front fender lip/upper A-arm, and rear inside corner, so mount
one up then check it at ALL 4 corners of the van.

These were listed/pictured in the VW/Audi dealers accessory catalog, where
many steel wheels for all models were shown.  Full list was $135/ I think, I
got closeout price of $45/. So from the dealer they should be under $100US/,
best deal I can think of.

Mods. req'd...   centres must be bored out to a hair over 2" to clear axle
stubs.  Remove/discard the two small bolts holding on the rear drums.
Ideally get lug nuts that have the same size curved face (smaller) as the
Audi has. FLAPS can help select, or check a junked Audi. I just re-used the
Syncros, which are too big and loses me about 2 turns of the nut.

Nice thing is no need to get longer studs/bolts, unlike the alloy versions.
The rims are almost same style as 14" steel, silver grey paint, many small
holes around the perimeter.  Audi hubcaps won't fit due to axle stubs, need
the type that clip onto the wheel nuts. These are sold for permanently
mounting snow tires on, but I have never seen a set in the junkyard!  Plenty
off alloys, usually slightly out of round, even if true/undented, so check
carefully. I prefer steel for rough use. HTH, Tim