In a message dated 96-04-04 22:13:30 EST, jwmiller@umd5.umd.edu (Miller -
James W.) writes:

>
>What is the diameter of a 185 R 14 tire?      25.6 inches   (actually 185/82
r-14
>
>What is the diameter of a 195/75 r 14 tire?    25.4"
>
>What is the diameter of a 185/70 r 14 tire?    24.5"
>
>What is the diameter of a 185/75 r 14 tire?     24.9"

205/70-14 24.9"
Sizes are approximate and vary among different manufactures
>
>I have two 185 R 14's and 2 185/75 r 14's on my van on opposite sides, in 
>opposite corners!  Might this tend to make my van handle funny?
Yes it would!!
>A local dealer called and has the following tres in 185 R 14... which one 
>doyoyu think is best? (this is the size printed in my van)
>
>michelin mx $96.00
>
>Bridgestone d rated 8 ply $88.00
>
>Merit 8 ply $57.95
>
>

For close to $100.00, I would look for reinforced 205/70,s or got to a 215/70
high performance tire.  The 215/70 in standard load will hold 1554 lbs per
tire minus the 10% wieght derating for use on a light truck.  Plenty of
capacity for a Vanagon.
Dennis.