In a message dated 10/26/01 3:39:36 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
idworkshop@HOME.COM writes:

<< Does anyone know what the offset is for 2001 VW Passat alloy wheels is? Has
 any one put them on a Vanagon Synchro?
 I know that earlier Passat wheels will fit a Synchro with some
 machining/spacers, but what about the latest generation? I know that the
 stud number and spacing is that same (5x112mm). >>

Jon,

I don't know which particular 2001 Passat Alloys you are referring to but
most Passat rims I have encountered that have the correct bolt pattern (97
and earlier will NOT fit) have an offset of ET45. Width will dictate how it
fits in to your Syncro. Fronts will have to be machined to clear the ridge on
the center of the front hub. Rears should bolt right on. However, be aware
that the Passat center caps may not fit after the machine work. Again
depending on what model wheel you are using. Most contemporary VW alloys
attach to the center of the wheel with plastic clips at the perimeter of the
cap to be held by a ridge in the centerbore. If you machine that out the
centerbore all the way, the caps will have nothing to attach to. You do not
need to bore them out all the way for Syncros. You do need to do that on
2WD's. You can avoid this by using a thin spacer. This will not only
eliminate the need for machine work but also make it possible to rotate tires
and the added benefit of bringing the Passat wheels
closer to the Syncro offset.

Again, w/o knowing EXACTLY which wheel you are planning on using, this
response only serves as an overview of what must be done. You may also need
longer studs depending again on which wheel you are intending to use.

I have access to some of the longer wheel studs if you end up needing them.

BenT

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