> > I forgot there were multiple options for "stock". I have steel wheels.
>  My tires have all been size 185R14, and I'm unclear about what other sizes
> (if any) are appropriate.
> >
> >
> > It's time for new tires, and I'm looking for advice.
> >
> > Here's what I'm looking for:
> >
> > I have an '88 Westy with stock wheels.  I don't want to change to new
> > wheels.  These roll.  I like them.
> >
> > What's most important to me is good, safe handling and traction.  I want
> > good traction in the rain.  We don't get enough snow here (St. Louis) to
> > justify snow tires or chains, but, when we do get snow, I'd like to be
> able
> > to drive to work safely, even when the roads aren't quite cleared yet,
> or if
> > it's a bit icy.
> >
>

   I run stock sized steel wheels on my 84 5sp.   People give these wheels
away when they 'upgrade' to alloys.  Of the three sets I now have, I found
two that were dented, bent.   I have broken cast and even forged alloy
wheels, so on the Vanagon, I use steel wheels. for dependability in remote
areas.  And because they are free.

  For tires, the best I've found, so far...I use the Hankook  RA0 8 on the
front and Nokian Hakkapellita C on the rear...both in 185-14c size.   This
is my second set of Hakkas.   I was impressed with the tread wear of the
first set and they do give good traction compared to similar tires in other
brands.  Worth the premium price, IMHO.  This is my first set of RAO 8s,
using them on the front, and they make the van handle as well as it ever
has...at about 15k miles, the tread is looking fine...they have a deep
tread, B.T.W.     The 'mix' of brands in this particular combo seems to
work well for me...I may get another pair of Hankooks to run on the rear
this summer because they are less expensive than the Nokians and I don't
really need M+S treads in the summer where I drive...

  Don Hanson