Date:         Sun, 15 Mar 2009 10:13:31 -0600
Reply-To:     Larry Chase <roadguy@ROADHAUS.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Chase <roadguy@ROADHAUS.COM>
Subject:      Westy - Front to Back Weight distribution
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

Volks,

Been on the road for a few days so not up to speed on all recent
postings.

But in skimming the digest I noticed their was a discussion as to
whether a Vanagon Westy
was heavier in the front and back.

Over the years I have collected actual loaded and unloaded weight info
from many owners.

The answer ... BOTH ... although they are close to 50 / 50

A Westy Camper with two people in the front and no to very little
water, LP  or gear in the rear "may" weigh slightly more in the front.

A Westy Camper with two people and fully loaded with full water, LP
and camping gear will weigh slightly more in the rear.

VW's Weight Capacity specs give us an idea of how these vehicles where
designed.

http://www.roadhaus.com/tires/Vehicle%20Weight%20Carrying%20Capacities.html

Comments:

1) With the exception of 1984 (slight difference) the only difference
in  GVWR & GAWR over the years was 2wd vs 4wd

Summary:

2WD Vanagon or Camper
GVWR 5160 lbs
GAWR Front  2646 lbs
GAWR Rear  2866 lbs

4WD Syncro Vanagon or Camper
GVWR 5512 lbs
GAWR Front   2866 lbs
GAWR Rear  3042 lbs

Note ... Adventure Wagons are different  .. they are heavier in the
front.


larry
roadhaus.com