The rear hatch extensions should definitely not be used while the engine is running or the vehicle moving. Exhaust gases, and especially CO can and *will* be drawn into the opening. I think the ones made and/or sold by others will make this clear, and the owner's manual mentions this too. I've hauled enough extra long lumber and so forth to reinforce this advice, even with the front windows open (or possibly because of this) the exhaust coming in the back is considerable. Gregory Smith '88 Vanagon Olympia, WA Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2009 22:10:38 -0700 From: Don Hanson <dhanson928@GMAIL.COM> Subject: Re: rear hatch lock extension After seeing the links and pics, I made myself one today in about an hour. I used some MSD plastic (like very hard nylon or teflon) stuff I had around. Also an old seat belt eye-bolt. I think mine may even work while driving if the exhaust doesn't eddy around and come inside. Mine looks a bit like the Go Westy $20+ one, with a flat strut that hooks around the post on the body and that seat belt eye bolt sticking up to catch the latch on the hatch. I can close the hatch with one hand without bending over. I think my dog is going to love me (even more) this summer. Don Hanson |
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