After around two years with BF Goodrich AT tires on original Volkswagen rims, we were keen to try something new.
However, the selection of rims for the Crafter and Grand California did not really convince us.
Either we didn’t like the models or they weren’t much more individual than the original VW steel rims.
So after gully covers and the like were out of the running, I had actually already given up on the idea.
Until I saw a TikTok video of the wheel manufacturer Schmidt by pure chance.
I rummaged around on the Schmidt website (www.felge.de) and searched for the VW Crafter without much expectation, just for fun.
What can I say, I really found what I was looking for, there are stable 18 inch rims, the Schmidt 18 HDX.
The rim is available in two versions:
The first color combination is SATIN BLACK FRONT POLISHED.
I was skeptical again, as we had driven all the chrome and polished surfaces off the Cali.
But luckily there are two other options 🥳
I was immediately impressed by the design and the key data of the rim simply fit the Grand California perfectly.
There is a parts certificate for the Crafter (yes, this also applies to the Grand California) and a load capacity of 1400 kilos per rim is really impressive.
The following tire combinations are approved in the expert opinion:
– 235/55R18
– 255/55R18
– 255/60R18
As we still wanted to drive an AT tire and the BF Goodrich is unfortunately not available in these dimensions, we opted for the Loder AT.
We’ll find out how it performs over the next few months.
A mudguard extension (can be glued) is required for registration, whereas the speedometer does not have to be adapted, at least not for the Loder AT in 255/55 R18.
However, this is also a small stumbling block, because according to the expert opinion, it must be proven that the speedometer is still working correctly.
In principle, this can be done in two ways.
You buy a speedometer calibration kit for around 500 euros.
With its expert opinion, the correct functioning of the speedometer can be proven or the inspector can carry out a speedometer test drive.
We opted for the second option, but you have to know that not every test base offers this and you have to reckon with costs of around 120 euros for the test drive.
All in all, the registration went smoothly for us.
For the wheel set you have to put a good 2200 euros on the counter, plus of course the tires, fender flares and registration.
In our case, we are talking about a total price of around 3700 euros.
What do you think of the Schmidt rims?
Please leave us a comment.
