Date:         Tue, 10 Sep 2002 16:09:14 -0400
Reply-To:     Warren Chapman <vwsyncroguy@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Warren Chapman <vwsyncroguy@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      Trailer Hitch Storage Box ??

I currently have a large Thule rooftop box that I carry most of my camping
gear.  After a year of using it I've decided that I don't like it much for
several reasons.

1.  Its hard to get into....even for me....and I'm 6'8" tall. I carry "two
step" ladder all the time.

2.  Its very heavy...can't open the pop-top unless its unloaded...even then
you need to be pretty strong. (Haven't noticed any handling problems
though).

3.  It's always on and loaded, so fuel mileage suffers unnecessarily during
daily driving.

4. The mounting brackets have a tendency to work loose....so I have to
watch closely and tighten the brackets periodically.

I''ve seen a lot of storage options for trailer hitch mounted boxes that
hang off the rear end and wonder how that would work on a Vanagon.  My van
is already a heavy Syncro Westy but the Subaru engine pulls the weight
nicely (although with a mileage penalty)

This type of hitch mounted box seems to have a lot of advantages over a
rooftop box for access and storage when not needed.

But I'm wondering how having that extra weight hanging off the back end
would effect the van's handling on the road.  Does anyone have any
experience with this type of hitch mounted box on the back of a Vanagon.
(Looking for experience please....speculation doesn't help me much.)

I like the idea that a storage box could remain loaded with camping gear
but go in the garage except when needed for trips. Even found one that has
drop down legs and wheels as part of its mount, to make it easy to roll
about.

Warren Chapman
90 Syncro Westy/Subaru powered