I think you need to face the reality that you have outgrown your new van. The extra propane tank will need to be mounted in open air, in approved brackets. The best generator for your needs is probably the Honda 2000u. This will run the AC, charge batteries, and have power to spare. It weighs about 63 pounds. Carries like a big suitcase. If you plan to use the generator in any national or state parks, it must be US Forest Service approved. This refers mostly to noise and spark arrest from the exhaust. I would not keep it in a lightweight trailer as the bouncing around may destroy it. Same for the window AC. For the hitch, I am partial to my design but it could be over kill.

For the trailer I would start with one of the small flat beds or maybe a kit. Small trailers usually get small tires. The Van tires will have too much unsprung weight. They may spend a lot of time airborne. Standard trailer tires and wheels are cheap. Carry a spare mounted to the tongue. If the trailer and cargo are over 1,000 pounds, many states require brakes. You can choose hydraulic, (surge) or electric.

-----Original Message----- From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of John Rodgers Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2006 11:32 AM To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM Subject: Trailers, Portable Generators and the like

With this "new-to-me" 88 GL I got from "Unca' Joel" I'm planning the development of a dedicated custom travel unit. It will consist of the van - plus whatever mods I put on it ( I have ideas for a lot of those) plus a small utility trailer. On - or in - the trailer ( I haven't decided on open or closed type yet) I propose to haul a generator, a propane tank, a bigger tool box, VW spare parts box, some outside camping gear, an air conditioner( which I will sit in the van front passenger window and run from the generator). I may also carry a potters wheel and a portable, knock-down gas fired kiln, as well. The van itself will be a place for sleep, eating, etc. and maybe some light storage of clothing, etc.

For the trailer I propose to have the wheel size match that of the van. Should tow easier, and if necessary, be a source of extra spare tires if I need to rob one for whatever reason. Besides that, I think in the tire arena one size fits all adds a measure of safety as well as convenience and utility.

As for the generator, there are any number of brands, and sizes, but I want something that is dependable, quiet, and of modest capacity. I don't plan to light up a city with it, but I would like to be able to run the window AC unit, and also the potters wheel, though not necessarily at the same time. Maybe it should have at least a two appliance capacity. The AC unit expected to run is 110/120 volts. Don't know wattage and amps but the AC is small.

I would appreciate any input from the list membership about generators, brands, and their use on the road in relation to life in a vanagon while on tour.

Also, any input about trailers, hitches, towing, etc, would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Regards,

John Rodgers 88 GL Driver x2