I'm no expert, but I had the same concerns about evasive maneuvers and
oversteer in my '91 Syncro Camper.  Getting the Michilein Agilis tires
with super-reinforced sidewalls solved the problem for me a few years ago.

Now I'm looking at having to replace shocks and tires again, and I'm
not sure which way to go.

Tony Peet
Pacific Grove, CA

On Wed, 16 Feb 2005 05:30:58 -0800, Pensioner <al_knoll@pacbell.net> wrote:
> Per the query a few days ago.   As I mentioned to the proprietor of
> syncro.org long ago, the combination of OME shocks and springs purchased
> from SS was not a good solution for my SVX Westy Syncro.  Using BFG
> 215/75-15 AT/KO tires properly inflated the van exhibited a dangerous
> oversteer condition.  Evasive action or rapid lane changing was scary at
> best.  The proprietor made many excuses and accusations personally but never
> made any attempt to resolve the matter.  On the advice of a fellow syncro
> owner, I swapped in the SA rear shocks (thanks Bill and Eric).  The problem
> disappeared, and life is good.
>
> So I do not recommend using the Syncro.org suspension if you have a 5000lb
> syncro with the additional 200lbs of Subaru powerplant.  The resulting
> oversteer characteristics can lead to disaster.  The combination of Betts
> springs and SA dampers makes for a much safer syncro although the
> rough-stuff handling may be slightly decreased due to the higher damping
> factor of the SA shocks.
>
> I have a local dealer who handles OME and we are pursuing a stiffer OME
> solution for the Syncro SVX
>