I would have looked for the clam shell and bars from a van that had the
205-70-14 tires. The Van-Caf� carrier works best for tires that are truly
oversized in diameter. The 205-70 is usually slightly smaller in diameter
than a 185r14. 
I would weld a plate between the two side bars and then use a threaded rod,
some nuts, and washers to secure the tire to the welded plate. 

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Eric Caron
Sent: Tuesday, March 11, 2014 7:00 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: tip needed for Van Cafe oversized tire carrier install

Hi listers,

        You folks were correct in telling me that the 205/70/14 tire would
not fit in my 85 Vanagon clamshell.  I could have forced it up but clearly
this could cause problems.

        So, I purchased the Van Cafe carrier and as I had to have work done
on the van, I took the cold weather excuse and let the mechanic install it. 

        I received a call and he said he doesn't like the way the tire can
move all around left right, forward and back.  Without the wires holding it
in place.

        The carrier comes with no install instructions.
Before attempting the install I asked van cafe for instructions but they did
not have any.  I received a brief email basically saying remove clamshell
and wires and install new carrier.

So, anyone out there have one of these carriers?  Is your tire flopping
around, only held in place by gravity, or do you have a tip for us?

Eric Caron 
85 GL Auto Westfalia