The 215/70's should work fine.  I have used them with great success.  The
reinforced Michelins are only rated at 1570 lbs..  Not too much difference.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: David Bogle / Architecture <bogle@BWAY.NET>
To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM <Vanagon@VANAGON.COM>
Date: Thursday, September 10, 1998 4:48 PM
Subject: Re: Wrong Tires from PO, ramifications?

>Hello all,
>
>I have recently purchased an '87 Syncro Westfalia with 4 tires as
>follows:
>
>El Dorado Legend
>P215/70R14
>Tread: 2 ply steel + 2 ply polyester
>Sidewall: 2 ply polyester
>Max Load:  705 kg (1554 lbs) at 240 kpa (35 psi)
>Tread Wear:  560
>Traction:  A
>Temp:  B
>Other markings on the sidewall include:  SR, M/S, Standard Load,
>23479-1, Design 9331, Tubeless Radial.
>They have about 5/32" tread depth, and are 2 or 3 years old.  What are
>my chances of a blowout?
>
>The Tire Rack was of no assistance, except to tell me that they have
>_no_ tires _or_ wheels for the vehicle.  A local vendor will special
>order Michelin MXT 205/70R14 for $108 ea. installed.  What are my other
>options without cutting corners, i.e. max pressure >44 psi, appropriate
>load rating, size...?
>
>I'd consider getting some 15" wheels and tires, as Jim Catterson has
>been so pleased with, but I'm not interested in spending $ for mags.
>Are there any steel (cheap) alternatives?  If so, what size (width, etc)
>should I look for and where?  Will the 15" spare fit in it's
>compartment?
>
>Thanks,
>--
>David Bogle
>
>'72 Campmobile 2.0L
>'87 Vanagon GL Syncro Westfalia