>OK, here goes the offset discussion again!
>I recently installed new '98
>Passat steel wheels, offset ET45, on my Syncro,
>whoa-they are 6mm closer to
>the center of the van! I will say once again-
>they fit PERFECTLY, no spacers
>were required! Also used stock Vanagon lugnuts.
>Tires I used were 215/75/15
>Bridgestone Blizzaks, absolutely NO problem with
>clearance or handling. And,
>with the Blizzak, there really is no need for
>chains anyway. If you really
>MUST have the rim in exactly the same relation
>as the original, then add a
>6mm (1/4") spacer. You should still have enough
>stud length remaining.
Karl,

I do not agree with you, at least the German TUV
does not allow to mount ET45 rims without adjustments
to a Vanagon because the free play on front axle
is too close. You're using 215 tires, that are
30mm wider tires as on Vangon standard. Totally your
tires are 21mm closer to the center as the 185/80R14.

Another warning: I had the Audi Turbo rims as an
option to mount on the Vanagon. I have to have a
permission wich depends on load capacity. The load
capacity of the Audi rims are only 560kg, and on
Vanagon they have to have at least 650kg. I know
that you will see this different, but I'm not allowed
to mount the Audi rims. The EV rims are designed
for 760kg load, this gives 1520kg per axle. VW
will allow 2600kg maximum total vehicle weight, but
I have to exceed this limit to 2810kg because of
tax reasons. I guess I have to modify the brake
system, too, which will take that additional load and
to get the TUV approval.

I've ordered the spacers 22mm and 27mm at Power Tec
Germany to mount the EV rims. They will be delivered
next week. Price is a bit high, 190.- DM per axle,
but they are already approved. I will inform you
next week how they will be mounted.
Regards
Helmut
'80 Vanagaudi