Date:         Sun, 19 Aug 2007 14:51:47 +0000
Reply-To:     Jeff Stewart <fonman4277@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jeff Stewart <fonman4277@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Vanagon Cover

<Obviously something like a carport would be better, but that's not an
option where I am>

IMHO, and after years of experience (and frustration) car covers aren't worth a damn. Especially trying to cover a van/Westy. In the winter, the damn things freeze to the vehicle, making it impossible to get off. Dirt (lots of it) still get under them, and then when they blow in the wind it scratches the paint. A few years ago I bought a Shelter King "instant garage" for $399.00. For a few years it worked well, even in freezing temps here in Virginia I could warm it up nicely inside with a keresene heater. It has a fairly sturdy metal frame, a top cover and two end panels with zippered "doors". Now, despite Shelter Kings claim the cover should last 15 years, mine rotted in 4. The end panels are still in good shape. Sooo, I called Shelter King about a replacement top portion-$299.00!!! When I expressed my displeasure with the price, the girl on the phone offered to cut the price to $249.00-still no good in my opinion. So, I headed to Tractor Supply and bought a heavy duty tarp in a
size that would cover the top, cost less than $50.00, but doesn't come down all the way to the ground on the sides like the original cover. So, while it won't hold in heat anymore, it still keeps my Westy out of the sun, rain, hail, leaves and bird droppings. Jeff