Skip to main content
Gerry | Vanagon
Checking account...
← vanagon.com home · Continue the discussion in the forum
Subject:Tires - Why oh why NOT?
From:Chris S
Date:Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:23:23 -0400

I've been a Vanagon Westfalia ownder since 2001 and I have ALWAYS
agreed that Vanagons should have reinforced tires on their stock 14''
wheels.

Now, what happens when you upgrade to larger wheels?  Take this for instance:

A 1990 Mercedes 560 SEC weighs about 4000lbs.  It rides on 205/60 R15
tires.  The tires are not reinforced.  The US version of that
wonderful car had only 236hp and it would push it to nearly 150mph,
with the Euro engine having closer to 300hp.  The car is over
engineered in true M-B fashion. It can take 5 adults down twisty
mountain roads in comfort with poise belying its portly weight.  Can
you say TIRE LOADS?

So my question, on this wonderful Friday:  Why oh why are Mercedes
15'' tires NOT good enough for our camper?

My answer is that our tiny concrete-filled 14'' donuts need to be
reinforced because nothing else in that size can handle 4000lbs of van
and furniture, and the 15'' Mercedes tires and wheels are just fine.

Take it away, list!  FLAME SUIT ON!

--
Chris S.
Disclaimer: "Death and serious injury may occur"