On Sun, 18 Dec 2011 09:04:12 -0500, Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
wrote:

>What year and original tire fitment? There are two different tire carrier
>set ups from the factory. The clam shell and bars from the 205/70 will take
>that tire with little effort. A longer front bolt and dropping the rear
>hinges will work. Be sure the tire does not rub on the steering shaft.

Based on personal experience, a van originally fitted with the 205/70
tires, will accept the 27 x 8.5 x 14" tire in the stock tire carrier
without modifying either the hinge or the bolt, and the carrier does not
require any exceptional effort to raise and latch; tightening the front
bolt finishes the lift.  As Dennis said though, be sure the tire does not
rub on the steering shaft, which may require that the tire be shifted
slightly off-center in the carrier to clear the shaft.  My van is fitted
with the steering shaft protector made by Burley Motor Sports to render
this issue moot.