Date:         Sat, 14 Oct 2000 09:47:22 -0600
Reply-To:     James Sperl <JiMelody@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         James Sperl <JiMelody@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
Subject:      Actual weight limit for back hatch?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

<<Only 3 rails are recommended for the Paulchen, as the Vanagon hatch may
not be able to carry the weight of the 4th.>>


Hi.  Does anyone know for sure if the back hatch cannot hold the weight of 4
bikes plus rack weight.  My plan once I get the money and time is to modify
thule or yakima racks to support bikes hanging down vertically off the back
hatch.  It would look something like this:

  -|-------|------|-------|-
   |         |       |         |
   |         |       |         |
 _| ___ |___|____|
   |         |       |         |

The weight would hang off of the top of the hatch, the bikes would be in
rails with "ankle biters" to hold the bikes up from their crank arms.  It
will allow me to remove one bike at a time without having to remove all of
them.  A roof rack is out because I have a high top.  Two adult mountain
bikes, two kids.  Weight estimated at 95 - 100 lbs including rack.

So, is there agreement that the back hatch hinge supports cannot take 100
lbs of hanging weight?  Should be very little wind pressure.
Thanks for any advice.

Jim
91 Syncro Adventurewagon
99 NB TDI
Fairborn OH