In a message dated 98-05-01 01:43:00 EDT, vanagon@VOLKSWAGEN.ORG writes:

<< Currently my Double Cab Syncro has 225R60 16" winter tires on it, this
 works out to be about 26.7" in diameter. I want to go up to 215R70 16"
 (28.0") or 225R70 16" (28.5") BFG All-Terrains.  The spare tire is the
 factory Continental 225R60 16" and the distance between the frame rails
 where the spare tire goes is about 27.5" across.  Needless to say it just
 fits and the larger ATs that I am deciding to get will not fit without the
 help of a grinder. I know that tire size is very important on a Syncro and
 that all tires must have the same tred wear and be of the same type.
  >>

 Boy, now you've got me all worried. I never thought about my spare tire. I
upgraded my syncro stock wheels ( 14" rims with 195-70-14 tires ) to 16" with
215-65-16 tires.  My spare tire is still the smaller diameter. I have a
feeling damage can accur with the spare tire on, to the syncro clutches. I
hope not. I also have a 87 Audi 5000 quattro. I upgraded that also to 16
wheels.  A spare on the Audi I don't think will be that much of a big deal
because of the differentials being able to compenstate. On the syncro, I think
the safest place to but the spare would be at the rear.   Don't get a flat.
Michael.