Garandman

We have Nokian Hakkapeliitta R's on our TC. They have outstanding snow and ice traction, low rolling resistance, excellent tread wear for a snow, but are expensive. Buying cheap tires never made sense to me. They have "SUV" grade tires with higher load ratings, but those aren't available in 15". The 205/65R15 are rated XL (extra load) and have a load rating of 99R. 99 = 1,709 lbs/tire. For comparison, a Michelin X-Ice Xi2 has a load rating of 94T - 1,477 lbs. Probably still OK for a vehicle with a GWR of 5,005.

I tried a trailer shop and they didn't have any single-hole D rings. Anyone have the part number for the D ring that comes standard on the vehicle? Perhaps they can be ordered from the dealer.

We have the 310A package with rear glass. So we have gone with what we've used on other vans: a Fresnel lens. They apply to the inside rear window, show behind the vehicle nearly to the ground behind the bumper, never break and cost $12.

We just purchased an XLT cargo with 310A package from Londonderry (NH) Ford. This is a company vehicle: we also own a Chevrolet Express 2500 cargo van, a Subaru Outback 3.0R wagon, and two Honda Accords. This vehicle is replacing a Nissan Quest minivan. The cargo space is just about ideal for us. The load doors taller than a Chevrolet or Ford standard van. We will be using this vehicle for service calls and equipment delivery throughout New England. First tank of fuel in mixed driving was 23.7 mpg, 30-50% better than a full-sized van. Today I am going to try and fit my motorcycle in it: it is longer than the official load floor length, but may fit between the front seats. A sport bike should fit pretty easily, but I have an Enduro (V-Strom) that is 90" long.