Hi neighbor :)
Check this out... great info.
http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/tech/offset.htm
I don't know the "definition" of ET, but know that the 35 designation means
35mm offset more "inboard" than 0 (zero). A zero rim would have equal parts
inside and outside the center of the hub. Why ET means a reference to offset
I don't know, but it does. In this case, negative offset, or inward toward
the brakes.
The vanagon ET is 32 so 35 MAY allow you to use it without spacers, to move
it out to at least 32. Make sense?
Also, I "think" you're going to have problems getting a tire/wheel diameter
of 29" with an 18" rim, at least one that is "loaded" for the vanagon, C or
D. You will likely find alot of tires that can be used with 55-65 profile
but then you'll run into side sliding door rub "issues". I know from having
225/60 16's on my van that the lower profile tire makes the van handle like
a slotcar on rails but I ran into problems with sidewall damage due to their
low profile, hitting rocks at speed, etc. I got rid of them due to that.
I have 28.4" diameter wheel/tire combo and get a little rubbing while
turning into driveways and such. I know someone who has the B.F. Goodrich
TA's and are 29" and he get's the same rub. Both Syncro's.
A "shopping" experience observation: there are more tires, appropriate for
vanagon's, if you have 15" rims. Above and below that and the choices get
significantly slimmer without modifications to the van to accommodate larger
than about 29" wheel/tire sets.

I can say this about ET: the ET for my van in the quarter mile is still
measured with a calendar :) Fryedaye, right.

Bob Stevens
'87 Westy Syncro
http://groups.msn.com/BobsPhotoShare
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tiico

----Original Message Follows----
From: "John C." <Trvlr2001@AOL.COM>
Reply-To: Trvlr2001@AOL.COM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Wheel Offsets;
Date: Fri, 17 Sep 2004 16:54:24 EDT

Hi All,
Could someone explain wheel offsets?
What does the ET stand for?
& How does one measure the offset?
Will an 18" X 8.5" X ET 35 Mercedes Fit an 85?
What machining would needed?
Hub & lug nut angle, I'm a guessin' ?
Any experience what tire size I should be looking for?
Brand & model?
I'm thinking the maximum tire diameter would be about 29" ?
Thanks,
John C...
SLC, UT...