Greetings,
I looked at the Yokohama tires web site, I used their "tire
store" feature to see their recommendation for the Vanagon.  They give 2
choices, 1 is the familiar Y356 and the other is the SUPER DIGGER V (SD-05).

Here are the descriptions they give:

LT195/75R14  Y356  Light Truck Tires
                                                                                  Utility/Commercial
                   Durability with a comfortable ride, the Y356 meets the
multi-purpose needs of many light trucks, mini-vans,
                   and light utility vehicles. The three-groove block
tread pattern and three-pitch variation provide good wet-road
                   traction and sure footed, dry-road handling without
excessive tire noise. The Y356 comes through with
                   strength, stability and long tread life.

and:

LT195/75R14 SUPER DIGGER V (SD-05) Light Truck Tires
                                                                                      Sport/Recreational
                   Designed to meet the many demands of today's
sport/recreational vehicles. This all-terrain radial delivers a
                   smooth, quiet ride and exceptional handling on the
highway, yet gladly answers the call to an occasional
                   off-road excursion. The multi-siped tread design
effectively channels water, grips snow and provides
                   assurance in severe weather conditions. It features a
40,000 Mile Limited Treadwear Warranty.

(No indication on whether or not an 8-ply is availible)

The address for this site is < http://www.yokohamatire.com/> go to the
"tire store."

I've been sold for a long time on the favorable comments towards the
Y356, has anyone tried the Super Digger?  In the picture shown, the tread
doesn't look overly aggressive, possibly a good choice for both highway
use and (2WD) off-road conditions (for me that would be multi-day trips
on gravel and good dirt roads/trips to Tahoe).
I'd be interested in hearing experiences/comparisons/general comments. Thanks.

Charles
'83.5 camper
'81 528i