Date:         Thu, 11 Dec 2003 09:51:37 -0800
Reply-To:     mark drillock <drillock@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         mark drillock <drillock@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      conversion weight
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

No, my stretch does not weigh very much more than a standard length
body. Much of the weight of a Vanagon is in the drive train and
suspension and those parts are not stretched. The stock body shell
weighs under 2000 lbs and is 14 feet long. I added 2 feet. Even assuming
that each foot of the body weighs the same I can't have added more than
1/7th more, or less than 300 lbs. Mine is stretched in the part of the
body that is the lightest and I figure it added about 250 lbs including
reinforcements. In the process of cutting things up I got to carry
around the body parts so I have some idea of what I am talking about.
The custom camping interior I am building will weigh about the same as
the Westy stuff. I am driving it around right now with the new fridge,
bed, and partial cabinets installed. Even with the current stock 1.6
Diesel motor and big 15" wheels it outruns some stock diesel Westys.
Isn't that right Mike S?

Mark


Ben T wrote:

> Anything is possible if you are willing to spend the time or money to do it. My only question for you is WHERE can I get my hands on the laminated airplane floors. I want to build some cabinets with them. I've spent almost an entire 5 day weekend on commercail airliners this past weekend. I really like the way airplane interiors are done. I'd love one of those compact toilets in  a stretched Vanagon. However, weight will be a concern. I velive Otmar's stretch weighed in at a hefty 6000 lbs. Don't know how much Mark Drillock's partial stretch weighs. It's gotta be close to that. Any weight savings helps.
>
> BenT