I have never the specs on spring rates for the standard vs. lower springs but from ride experience I do not think there is a significant difference. It is easier to bottom the lowered springs out. While the campers have additional weight the Gross vehicle and axle weight ratings are not any different. You just have less carry capacity. 

Dennis 

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Chris S
Sent: Friday, October 30, 2009 1:04 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: 30mm factory lowering springs

I got got my grubby hands on some factory Carat springs which have 2
yellow dots on the fronts and 1 green dot on the rears. According to
the color code charts these are 30mm lowering springs.

I take these would have higher spring rates than regular passenger
vans. Before I test them on my 84 Westy, what do YOU think about using
these on a Westfalia?  Based in the color code charts the spring rates
were shared between some passenger and Westfalia models.  What about
that lowered look? Ground clearance?  Share with me your thoughts.

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