With the alloy wheels (not a standard option until 87) you can go with a
225/70-14 tire. This will be slightly taller and 40mm wider than stock. The
standard load index for this size is 98 or 99 which is a small step above
the 97 the factory205/70-14XL tires had from the factory. There a number of
tire choices still available in this size including a Nokian.

Do note that the term "Snow" tires is fading and now the move is towards
"winter" performance. Part of this is that tires that have really deep
grooves and stuff to go through deep snow then fail on icy roads or even
slush.  It's all about compromise and which characteristics are real
important. "Winter" tires should also be used on all 4 wheels. Nokian also
has some good options for all-season tires that also work very well in
Winter.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Dake Collins
Sent: Monday, December 16, 2013 8:09 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: snow tires

Wu-Wei, my '84 Westy with standard 14" alloy rims, has informed me with
great enthusiasm and a sense of urgency that she needs new snow tires for
Christmas. I've looked around the Belfast Maine area and I get conflicting
opinions of little or no value so I'm turning to my trusted sources on "the
List" - What are your recommendations for snow tires?

Thanks & Happy Holidays,

Dake 'Ian' Collins
Wu-Wei '84 Westy