Mark,

Not really a North American VW issue, more like a pre-1992 VW issue as
most of the T3s running around Europe came stock with 14" wheels just
like in the USA.

As a matter of fact, most are still running around with 14's today.
Last time I checked, the online tire stores in Germany carried 12
different brands of 14" tires for the T3.

Also, making a wheel change in Germany is more expensive since you
have to have it done professionally by a company that can provide the
Gutachten to keep your vehicle legal.

Cheers,

Jeff

On Mon, Sep 14, 2009 at 1:56 PM, Mark Tuovinen <aksyncronaut@gmail.com> wrote:
> For North America VW chose to use 14' tires and wheels. �In other locales
> you could have 15" and even 16" for your van. �Those of us that trade up are
> not necessarily moving away from what VW engineers spec'd for but to a size
> that VW marketing chose not to give us. �The stock 14" tire size is limited
> in selection here and getting more so as the years pass. �Not many vehicles
> used a 185R14 of the proper load range in North America. �By switching to a
> larger diameter you increase the number of tire choices available and can
> improve handling as well. �I have upgraded to 215/75R15 BFG's on the older
> style S A alloys for our Westy Syncro and am pleased with the results both
> in handling and looks. �I did have to modify the clamshell so I could carry
> an inflated spare and lost a little power on hills as the final drive ration
> has changed but it was worth it to me. �I agree that some modifications are
> questionable at best and others down right dangerous but switching to 15" or
> 16" wheels and tires can be done safely.
>
> Mark in AK
>
> On Sun, Sep 13, 2009 at 6:38 AM, Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@cox.net> wrote:
>
>> I am forever amazed at the propensity of folks to change something on a
>> vehicle from the way the engineers designed it, and dismiss any concerns
>> about safety of the modification with faith that it will "be ok."
>>
>> Why do you guys want different wheels from the ones that VW put on the
>> van? �In what way do you think that your choices are better? �Just
>> curious.
>>
>> Dave McNeely
>>
>>
>>
>>
>