I just got back from the Home Despot for a load of sheetrock, masonite and
insulation...in 2" of fresh snow.  The passenger tires did not explode--I
repeat, THE PASSENGER TIRES DID NOT EXPLODE.  Cargo delivered--mission
accomplished.  I could not have made this run with the old 14" rims and
ignoble Uniroyal tires, which were worthless in the snow...worse than
worthless; downright dangerous.

Again, stepping up to 16" rims was the best investment I've ever made in a
van (I've owned 6).  Buy the reinforced tires if you can, or face the fury
of the pneumatic gods like me, but just do it!

--
Casey
'87 300TD
'94 100CSQ Avant
'89 Bluestar