I just bought new tires.  And before I did I did a lot of research.  Read
the postings on several sites.  Looked at manufacturers sites.  Talked to
tire dealers.  And customer service reps for manufacturers.  I decided to
buy 195/75 R14 Yokohamas (Load Range D/8-ply) because everyone seems to rave
about them.  But TireRack said they were out of stock for 6-8 weeks, so I
went with plan B: 195/75 R14 Michelin LTX (Load Range C/6-ply).  They seem
perfectly fine.  Made a 2200 miles trip on them already.  They handled well,
were quiet, sure-footed, and smooth riding.  They have the same
circumference as the VW-prescribed 185/80R14 or the 205/70 R!4 so the
business about "additional height" sounds like a lot of hooey.  Some
manufacturer's sites actually list the 195/75R14 as an alternative size for
the Vanagon.  It's right between the two sizes recommended by VW.

Bill Wedenoja
former '77 westie owner
new '88 westie owner
waw105f@mail.smsu.edu

-----Original Message-----
From: Chris Cochella <cochella@XMISSION.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Monday, June 07, 1999 4:10 PM
Subject: TIRES: Light Truck 195 75 R 14 Good or bad idea?

>I know that the issue of what tires and load ratings are beaten to death
>on this list.
>
>I hope I am not re-riding the issue.
>
>I spoke with guy who uses Light Truck (LT) 195 75 R14 tires on his
>vanagon.
>
>He loves them because they are 6 ply and lessen the soft feeling around
>turns and in wind.
>
>However, most tire people tell me that the additional height of the tire
>*may* compromise the handling safety of the vehicle.
>
>If anyone has had any experience with a larger tire I would greatly
>appreciate a response.
>
>Thanks in advance.
>
>Chris
>
>--
>Chris Cochella
>Cochella Consulting
>cochella@xmission.com
>