With stock engine and gearing you don't want to go much over 27". A major
consideration is being able to maintain adequate load capacity. You should
also decide if you want off road or to use the Syncro for its on road, wet
weather and snow capabilities. For my money go for either 16 or 17 inch as
these wheel sizes offer a lot of options particularly if on rad performance
is a goal. I just outfitted FUN BUS with 235/55-17 Nokian GR2s and I
couldn't be more impressed. This is a high speed, high performance tire
which includes outstanding winter capabilities. This tire is an extra load
rated tire with a load index of 103. I can get wheels that will directly
bolt on and yes they will clear the sliding door. The wheels are rated for
2,200 pound each. The only downside is that this size tire will not fit in
the spare tire carrier. Your choices are a rear carrier, driveshaft
disconnect, or a 215/65-16 which is what I now have for my spare.

The 215-65-16 is also another great ire size. Standard load index is 98 and
the XL versions are 102. The 225/60-16 is just a little bit shorter and
wider. Again this won't fit in the spare carrier.

For 2 wheel drives especially automatics I go for the 225/60-17 or
225/55-17.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Matt Wolaver
Sent: Sunday, May 5, 2013 9:15 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Wheel size - 1987 Syncro

I just purchased "Harmony" a 1987 Syncro camper, here's a link to some
Picts: mysyncrowesty.com

My question is what is better small rims or big rims?  This vehicle comes
with 14" rims and 27" tires. I'm not sure if I can get taller tires for the
van?  (maybe some one knows the max height?)

But I'm assuming that the rim size doesn't matter if the tire size makes up
the difference.

Is there anything else to take into account here before upgrading the rims?
Stay with 14" or go upto 16"??

Thanks,
Matt

Matt