I really appreciate that info.

A great followup would be information and suppliers/vendors that actually stock
bloody 14" tires that fit the Vanagon's specs (for my application, it would be
the 205/70 R14 LI99).  Best I've seen listed on the web (don't even now if the
exist in fact) have an LI of 95.  But I have a lead on Vredestein 205/75 R14
with an LI of something like 106!  If anyone is intereted I'll let them know
were this leads via pmail.

bem

Steve Lashley wrote:

> In a message dated 3/5/02 10:32:20 PM, mike_l_f@HOTMAIL.COM writes:
>
> << Chris -
>
> Tires used to have 4,6 or 8-ply sidewalls, as well as tread (bias-ply tires,
> many moons ago).  I believe (but have not been able to find any confirmation
> for this) that 'Reinforced' tires are those which can carry a higher
> pressure, and so are stiffer.  Most P rated tires say 35 psi maximum.
> Heavier duty tires say 44, 50 or more.
>
> Running a 50 psi 205/70R-14 Load Range 97 tire at the recommended 40 psi on
> the rear of my '87 Westy means it can support less than the maximum weight
> rating, but it is still stiffer than a 35 Psi P rated passenger tire would
> be.
>
> Have you ever seen an official definition of reinforced? >>
>
> Yes reinforced tires carry a higher load rating, but not all higher load
> rated tires are reinforced.  Generally speaking, the higher pressure tires
> are stiffer, and give a firm ride.
>
> You need reinforced sidewalls to limit tire roll and sway.  The stiffer side
> walls help you keep better control over your van while turning and cornering
> as well as in windy conditions.  They limit the amount of lean the tires have
> and prevent tire blowouts.  Reinforced tires are needed on tall heavy
> vehicles like our vans.  They should also be required on SUVs, but that's
> another story. (remember the 35psi Firestone tires on the Explorer?)
>
> When you take a curve, weight is shifted to the inside tires and a lot of
> stress is put on the tire sidewalls.
>
> Ply ratings anymore are just that, a rating.  They don't actually stand for
> the number of plies.  You can have 4 ply tires that carry a 6 or 8 ply
> rating.  In the old days tires were rated by the number of plies they had.
> Today you can get the same strength with less, but the rating is still used.
>
> Steve Lashley
> SKL Enterprises Inc.
> http://EuroCampers.com
> 636-797-9015
> 636-789-2127 fax