> I wasn't able to locate the load-inflation table
> for that specific tire but that size regardless of 
> the C or D rating is only good for about 1,200
> pounds at 40 psi. Compare that to a standard 
> 215/70-14 which can carry 1,554 at 41 PSI. Follow
> the recommended pressures on the door jam for the
> tire size used or get the look up tables and 
> adjust for actual load.

The Hankook RA08 185R14 is rated for 1874 lbs and 65 psi, as per the factory
data sheet (the 195R14 slightly higher). Of course as Dennis noted that is
the maximum, not recommended, capacity. You should always follow the
inflation requirements on the door jamb.

If your Vanagon's handling is "boaty" even with Hankooks, Scott is right in
looking toward the springs. If the original springs are well worn, even
replacing them with comparable but new springs will make a HUGE difference.
Stiffer/lower springs will tighten up the handling even more, but can make
the ride a bit harder.  My '89 Westy (may it R.I.P.) had lowered performance
springs, and while I loved the handling you did feel the bumps in the road
more. When I got my current '87, it had the original springs and they were
completely shot. To borrow Scott's term, it wallowed like an "understeering
pig," even with decent shocks and Hankooks. This time I opted to replace the
springs with our aftermarket standard springs instead of our performance
ones. What a difference - the wallowing was almost completely eliminated and
the van handles great. Not quite as well as with the performance springs on
my last Westy, but to my taste it comes very close while maintaining a
slightly more comfy ride. Having tried both over the long term, I think that
personally I would go with the standard ones again over the performance
ones.

We do offer both aftermarket stock springs and performance springs for
non-Syncros, so you have a choice. (I believe our prices are the lowest
anywhere, as we import them directly from Germany ourselves.) 

Front Springs (replacement for stock) -
http://busdepot.com/details.jsp?partnumber=251411105A952

Rear Springs (as above) -
http://busdepot.com/details.jsp?partnumber=251511105952

Weitec Performance Springs (set of 4):
http://busdepot.com/details.jsp?partnumber=333000268

- Ron Salmon
� The Bus Depot, Inc.
� www.busdepot.com
� (215)� 234-VWVW

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