Best / Sweet spot Wheels, tyres, suspension set up?

[BlueytheVWCamperVan]

Hi All, Newbie here! I have just bought my dream machine, a 2020 SWB T6.1 (T30) Starlight blue 2.0 Highline DSG 150, fully converted camper by Status 1. Immaculate condition and only 17,500 miles. It has fully adjustable coil over sports suspension with 20” Fondmetal manufactured alloy wheels. The previous owner put on a new set of tyres but they are cheap ‘Triangle’ 275/35R20 to get it through the MOT. My only issue is the ride. I know it’s not a car but I feel every bump, pothole and even slight change in road surface, and would like to improve the ride / comfort as I will be using it daily. I am looking for the optimum balance. I have had so many different opinions from change the wheels to a smaller size, to put different size tyres on it, to a rather unhelpful “what do you expect, it’s a van!”. I suppose what I am hoping for it that a change in tyre to premium quality, may be size? (Without affecting the speedo) and raising the suspension which will also allow clearance for a difference tyre, without altering the aesthetics too much. Any constructive advice would be appreciated. Anyone with a similar van that hits the mark ? Also any recommendations for a company which will assist with the alterations in Bristol would also be good. Cheers in advance!

 

[Kev.O]

I can’t help with the tyre size but you’re more than welcome to take a ride in my BMVS suspension set up, I’m based in north Bristol.

K

Thread 'BMVS Edition Suspension - 5k Miles Review'

10 Nov 2024

So it’s been 5,000 miles since I drove down to BMVS and had their BMVS suspension fitted on my T6.1. The van is a kombi LWB with the OVANO drawer system fitted I would suggest I carry around 250kg at all times in the rear, increasing to well over 6/700kg at times. When loaded up there is no difference in how the suspension acts, even when towing 2.5 ton the suspension height barely moved, though this was helped by a triple axle trailer.

Having had a T6 with the Stx which at the time completely transformed by 90,000 mile Kombi, I wasn’t expecting much of an improvement with the T6.1...

• Kev.O
• bilstein bognor motors kw suspension recommendations
• Replies: 14
• Forum: Suspension, Steering, Brakes

• 

 

[BlueytheVWCamperVan]

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I can’t help with the tyre size but you’re more than welcome to take a ride in my BMVS suspension set up, I’m based in north Bristol.

K

Thread 'BMVS Edition Suspension - 5k Miles Review'

10 Nov 2024

So it’s been 5,000 miles since I drove down to BMVS and had their BMVS suspension fitted on my T6.1. The van is a kombi LWB with the OVANO drawer system fitted I would suggest I carry around 250kg at all times in the rear, increasing to well over 6/700kg at times. When loaded up there is no difference in how the suspension acts, even when towing 2.5 ton the suspension height barely moved, though this was helped by a triple axle trailer.

Having had a T6 with the Stx which at the time completely transformed by 90,000 mile Kombi, I wasn’t expecting much of an improvement with the T6.1...

• Kev.O
• bilstein bognor motors kw suspension recommendations
• Replies: 14
• Forum: Suspension, Steering, Brakes

• 

Thanks for the offer I am not even sure what the adjustable coil suspension package manufacturer or set up is on mine. I am waiting a response from Status 1 to try and get the full spec. Can I ask what setting yours is on and what wheels and tyre size and make you have? I think the correct new premium tyres will make a big difference on mine and potentially raise the setting a little. The handling in terms of cornering and control is great.

 

[Kev.O]

The van is has been dropped 65mm from standard with 255/45/18 Goodyear Eagle F1. I do find the tyres soft wearing and they don’t last as long as I would like.

 

[BlueytheVWCamperVan]

The van is has been dropped 65mm from standard with 255/45/18 Goodyear Eagle F1. I do find the tyres soft wearing and they don’t last as long as I would like.

Sounds like you’ve got some quality tyres though. I think the cheap Chinese Triangle 275/35/20 are part of the issue.

 

[ginkster]

Welcome and lovely looking van.

Unfortunately what you are asking for is hugely subjective so you will get a big range of answers. What works for one person is awful for someone else.

To soften the ride a bit one would normally look to increase the tyre side wall height, lower tyre pressures, give more suspension travel, reduce damping….etc. However, it is all a compromise as handling may become less sharp, more body roll and pitching, different looks (not necessarily worse)….etc.

I doubt a change of tyres would make a noticeable difference but having the correct pressures will. Also, I’d get the current dampers checked to make sure they are set right (or softened a bit if possible) and look to raise the height slightly. That won’t cost much and may solve your issues. If not you know you need to go deeper.

I’m not sure of places near Bristol but maybe take a run up to Cannock and see CRS Performance for some advice.

For info, I’m on 18” with H&R coilovers, 70 odd mm drop with Conti tyres and the ride is still pretty firm - in my opinion!

 

[BlueytheVWCamperVan]

Welcome and lovely looking van.

Unfortunately what you are asking for is hugely subjective so you will get a big range of answers. What works for one person is awful for someone else.

To soften the ride a bit one would normally look to increase the tyre side wall height, lower tyre pressures, give more suspension travel, reduce damping….etc. However, it is all a compromise as handling may become less sharp, more body roll and pitching, different looks (not necessarily worse)….etc.

I doubt a change of tyres would make a noticeable difference but having the correct pressures will. Also, I’d get the current dampers checked to make sure they are set right (or softened a bit if possible) and look to raise the height slightly. That won’t cost much and may solve your issues. If not you know you need to go deeper.

I’m not sure of places near Bristol but maybe take a run up to Cannock and see CRS Performance for some advice.

For info, I’m on 18” with H&R coilovers, 70 odd mm drop with Conti tyres and the ride is still pretty firm - in my opinion!

Thank you for all the comments and the most helpful and comprehensive response from anyone yet! I’ll take on board what you say and try CRS Performance. Thanks again!