I run Bridgestone 215/75/15 Duelers on my 87 syncro with stock tired motor.

And I pull a trailer to the dumps regularly.

Sure its hurt the power somewhat, but the 27/8.5/14s would feel like stock
to me.

If you see some dirt or gravel roads the extra size and LT tread is "better"
IMHO

Doug

----- Original Message -----
From: "George Goff" <THX0001@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, August 20, 2005 4:39 AM
Subject: Re: 27X8.5QR14 VS 185/R/14 ?

> In a message dated 8/19/05 10:02:25 PM,
> aircooledchris@EUCASAFARI.VENDIOWEB.COM writes:
>
> << Is there any difference? >>
>
> Yes, the 27X8.5 is three quarters of an inch wider and about 1 1/4 inches
> greater in diameter and it is not recommended for mounting on a Vanagon.
With
> the 27X8.5 size mounted to a Vanagon with stock gearing, the van's
drivability
> will suffer.
>
> It is best to mount the size tire which is displayed on the tire sticker
> affixed to the car.  The manufacturer of the car has certainly expended
more than
> a little effort selecting the size tire which will work the best on the
car.
> An unknown quantity on the internet will not come up with anything as
good.
>
> George