Finally got around to installing the new tires and Passat steel wheels.
They fit great, and the Westy now looks like it finally has the proper size
tire. (Used the 215/75/15s) Oooohh are they quiet and smooth! The tires I
removed were the Bridgestone Dueler ATs in a 27x8.5-14, really well-worn and
noisy. The Blizzaks are definitely a bit more 'squirmy' feeling, but the are
still brand-new. The weight rating on them is 1742 lbs! I measured the
height against a stock-tired Syncro I have, and now the Westy is 3" higher.
   Disadvantages: It does feel a bit more sluggish, acceleration-wise, and
the brakes feel even less up to the task of slowing this monster down. I am
investigating the possibilities of other (larger) brakes, and will post my
findings. Guess I'll really have to intercool the TD and bump up the boost
for more power, once that project is in progress.
   Anyone interested in installing the Passat steel or alloy wheels, I am
set up to machine the centers to the proper size. Just ship 'em to me, $10 a
wheel to machine.

Karl