Eric it is not normal, the problem occurs from the beginning and the problem
will destroy a tire in about 120 days.  Usually the front end is slightly out
of alignment.  But it is not a "normal" problem.  If it were, the newbies
would be winning.
davidb

EMZ wrote:

>    Some of this is normal, depending on how many miles it takes,
> and maybe the lack of rotating your tires.
>
>             Eric                   86-VW4x4
>             vw4x4@fyi.net          72-240z
>             Pittsburgh, PA USA     1936-Chrysler
>
> On Tue, 17 Nov 1998, davidb wrote:
>
> > This in embarrassing.  After watching for years people wine about tires
> > and now having to post a tire/front end question is an embarrassment.
> > After searching the archives and the vast library of information out
> > there and reading the bible according to Bentley, I am eating tires.
> >
> > The left front tire on my 84 Suitcase on Steroids has been cupping on
> > the outside.  This problem has been going on for a couple of years and
> > its time to fine the cure!  Here's what has been done to date:
> >
> > The tires are a truck tire  Cooper discover 6 ply 195X75XR14.  They are
> > stable and work well. No noticeable or measurable problems on the other
> > three corners.  ( the tires do have noticeable road noise and are great
> > in snow)
> >
> > The cupping is on the outside edge includes flat spots through tread, as
> > though there is a bad shock.  Shocks are all new KYB's.  Wish they were
> > firmer.
> >
> > Have had the front aligned at leas 1/2 dozen times by three different
> > shocks.  Nobody can find bushings, control arms or joints out of whack.
> > Van has never been hit.
> > We've even tried aligning it with me in it.  But alas to no avail.
> >
> > I am open to suggestions.
> >
> > Davidb
> >
> > Yellow  84 suitcase
> > Johns are for flushing
> >