In 2WD vanagons..
a stock type 14 inch spare is fine.
Just carry stock lug bolts and nuts ..
and make sure the wheel will fit over your longer studs or whatever and
still work.

On 3/11/2014 9:22 PM, JRodgers wrote:
> Related - how significant would it be keep the spare tire in a 205/70
> R14 size. It is a spare, after all, to b used in emergencies to get you
> to repair station or tire sales place. If  you have to use the smaller
> tire - it might ride funny, or sit funny - but should get you where you
> need to go.
>
> If I go to a 16 inch wheel, I'm going to have that issue. I like my
> stock setup because I can keep my official BMW two gallon  gas can in
> inside the wheel of the spare. Fits perfect/like it was made for it. I
> know it works that way in BMW's.
>
> John
>
> On 3/11/2014 6:00 PM, Eric Caron wrote:
>> 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
>>
>> .
>>
>