Van wheel alignment...perhaps?

G'day Henpecked(???),
As it seems the van has 'conventional suspension, 'solid' axle and tyre wear is restricted to one tyre then it is likely the cause is in the area of that tyre/wheel. If it was an axle alignment issue you would expect to see a similar concern with the other tyre, however the wear would likely be on the outside edge of the tyre.
I would first check for any looseness in the wheel bearing adjustment, and correct that. In the event there is looseness and that has caused significant tyre wear I would check the outer bearing for any untoward wear, if ok repack and install with correct adjustment.
Is it possible the van took a big (pothole) hit on that side and there is a slight bend in the axle end, this would explain one wheel/tyre only showing wear.
I'd start with the wheel bearing adjustment and go from there, ie simplest things first.
Rgds,
Rob.

Measure accurately the distance between both the front and rear widest points of tyres at axle height and you will see if one is toeing out or not.

17000 k's is a lot of k's without doing any bearing and wheel checks on the road, especially if you had new ones fitted before setting sail.
I keep a watch on hub temperatures at most stops, only takes a few seconds, while you stretch your legs, and can save a lot of heartache as I found out with a boat trailer many years ago. About every 3000 k's I quickly jack each side of the van up and check for bearing flog, and check the wheel for any problems. Cheap insurance and peace of mind.
Hope you find the source of your problem.

Fred.

Camber on the road? Prevailing wind buffetting from one side?

Just athought!

Cheers

It sounds to me like it is probably the stub axle is bent a little bit.

It maybe toed out a fraction, causing just the inside of the tyre to be the leading edge as you drive along, rather than the full width of the tyre.

Dave

Had the same problem on my camper trailer after a Cape trip from Melb. It had a single axle and leaf springs. Used a string line to check the axle alignment to the centre of the towball and found the R/H side was back by more than 1/2 inch. Undid the U bolts and realigned it (axle locators are not welded on the axle on mine) and it now tows square behind the car. Of course you can't change the toein on a solid axle but you can make sure it is square behind your vehicle.