This thread brings up two questions that have been lurking in my subconscious: 1. How bear-proof is a Vanagon? Since I like to camp in remote forestry campsites or even just pull over at a wide spot in the road, how easy would it be for a bear to open the oblong tin can that a Vanagon is, if there were leftover cooking smells wafting on the night air? Anyone heard of any experiences? A bear did a masterful and completely silent job on my backpack once, years ago. As I slept in my tent about 10 yards away! 2. Why did VW switch the Westy inner configuration from the dual-side of my 1973 Westy to the all-on-one-side setup in my current 1982 Westy? Personally, I prefer the older layout - that great little cantilevered shelf right by the sliding door; the more-balanced weight distribution, etc. So what were the perceived advantages that motivated the shift to locating everything on the driver's side? Vanagon historians? Cheers, Pat in Vancouver - 1982 Vanjetta "Otter"
Date: Sat, 26 Jun 2010 10:39:13 +0000 From: J Stewart <fonman4277@COMCAST.NET> Subject: Re: Westy's vs Other Configurations for Camping
Exactly the reason I am excited about the possibility of getting a Weekender, after many years of full camper Westy's I too rarely used the stove/sink/fridge.
Jeff Stewart
----- "John Rodgers" <inua@CHARTER.NET> wrote: > Westy's appear to be a grand vehicle for traveling and camping, but i > have never had an opportunity to use one that way, let alone even drive > one to see how they handle. Yet a few years ago, I spent an entire > summer camping out in Alaska in my '85 GL. I found it convenient, > flexible, and comfortable for the most part. I never found a need to > have cooking facilities inside, nor sink, nor even a refrigerator. In > fact, cooking inside could have created a bear problem with the smells. > > |
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