On 9/13/06, Bill MacLachlan <billmacla@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> I'm thinking of new wheels/tires for the van.
>
> I've now got a very old set of Ronal mags, and they seem to have all sorts
> of  numbers on them - I'm hoping there is a standard numbering system for
> aftermarket wheels that will allow me to choose replacements (most likely
> used) without the "yeah I think it'll fit " uncertainty.
>
> 1) is there a standard numbering system?

Sure. For basic stuff there is. There isn't for bolt patterns. Some
manufacturers do some don't. Ronal usually has the bolt pattern cast or
stamped in their wheels. they also have the offset expressed as the letters
"ET" followed by one or two numbers.

2) if there is is, then
> what is the bolt pattern description for the van?

5 X 112mm. Ronal typically stamps that as simply 5X112.

what is the range of wheel widths useable?

Well, that will depend on how you have your van set up. Dokas can take wider
rims because they do not have sliding doors. Max width is a function of
offset. In other words, some wide wheel wil not fit if it sticks in too far
or too far out. You see what I mean?

what is the offset useable without using spacers?

ET23-ET37 for 2wd depending on width and wheel style. Syncro can go as much
as ET45 but again depending on width.

anyone have definite answers ? ( yes I know that generally BMW/Mercedes
> wheels will fit, but I'd like to be a bit more specific if possible when
> looking)

Well, the definite answer you just gave is not correct. BMW cars with 5-lugs
are typically 5 X 120mm. Mercedes cars are 5 X 112mm like out vans. Keep in
mind that some MB wheels like te G-Class are Porsche pattern which is 5 X
130mm. Some BMW's have 4-lugs (4 X 100mm).

So it may sound silly but it would be better if you tell us what your wheels
are and what numbers are stamped on it rather than asking these general
questions. After a long hard day waiting at a hospital emergency room, I'm
dying to answer just specific questions. "Just the facts..." please.

BenT
vanagoncafe.info

ps: by buddy got out of emergency just fine. it wasn't a stroke afterall --
just pneumonia. damn, i'm not inheriting his TDI yet. =( j/k