Could someone explain the physics of why a larger wheel would affect braking? 

Is this simply because of a change in the contact patch of the tire? 

Todd 

'88 Westy 

----- Original Message -----

From: "mark drillock" <mdrillock@COX.NET> 
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
Sent: Wednesday, May 22, 2013 10:14:25 AM 
Subject: Re: 14" to 16" Wheel Upgrade User Input Please. 

Obviously larger diameter tires affect the braking somewhat. I have 5 
vans with 15" and 16" tires that are all substantially larger than stock 
diameter and yet I have all stock brakes. The key thing is they are all 
86+ front brakes and I keep the full braking systems in good working 
order. GOOD WORKING ORDER, that is the key. The rears are very important 
in that regard, they need service. 

I did recently put a larger brake booster in one of them and that made a 
big difference in brake feel though it doesn't improve braking capacity. 

Mark 

Don Hanson wrote: 
> Semi-thread jack, but 
> 
>     what kind of effect have you wheel swappers felt on braking?   Seems to 
> me that increasing the diameter and rolling circumference of the wheels 
> without increasing the brake's size...that would result in noticeable 
> reduction in actual braking force...eh?   I know the effect is dramatic 
> when done the other way....increase the brake disc's diameter and the 
> braking forces are enhanced... 
>    Curious, because Vanagons are  somewhat under equipped with brakes from 
> the factory 
> 
> 
>