On Sun, Aug 2, 2009 at 10:07 PM, Mark Tuovinen <mst@ak.net> wrote:

> I am working on the installation of my 15" S A alloys on our `87 Westy
> Syncro.  Using tapered cone open end lug nuts when I mount the wheels to the
> van the studs stop 3 to 4 threads short of the end of the lug nuts.  Is this
> normal or did vans that came with steel wheels have shorter studs than those
> that came with alloy wheels?  I have noticed a difference between the amount
> of stud protruding from the lug nuts(using steel wheels) on our Westy
> Syncro(shorter) vs the Sunroof Syncro(longer), both are `87's.  The Westy
> came to us with steel wheels while the other van had both alloys and steels
> with it and I suspect that the alloys are original to the van.  The
> difference is not much but is noticeable.
>
> Any knowledgeable input is greatly appreciated as we are taking off next
> weekend for 5 -7 days with the van and will be in places where services, if
> any, are severely limited.   I am assuming that longer studs are in order
> and need to expedite a set plus installation if this is correct.
>
> TIA
>
> Mark in AK

Hello Mark.

As I mentioned via pmail yesterday, I would add some detail once I can get
to a laptop. As Scott has already mentioned, VW did not change the length of
the studs. The use of the 60 degree conical seat lugnuts, allowed the
requisite 7.5 turns of engagement for safe attachment. When using SA alloys
and many others, don't forget to remove the drum retaining bolts so the rear
wheel can sit flush. If you are using stock Vanagon rear drums, you should
be fine with the stock studs with just the addition of the conical lugnuts.
If you use the SA drums with the thicker centers, then longer studs are in
order.

Since you have a Syncro, you should only need to use conical seat lugnuts up
front as well.

--
BenT