Date:         Fri, 25 Jun 2010 22:21:12 -0700
Reply-To:     Don Hanson <dhanson928@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Don Hanson <dhanson928@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Westy's vs Other Configurations for Camping
In-Reply-To:  <0ab801cb14e9$d7a3c1c0$6401a8c0@PROSPERITY>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

  I have a passenger van that I installed the westie kitchen and plumbing
into.  With the fold down bed, but I left out that rear wardrobe and the
overhead cab because I sometimes carry big stuff inside..like plywood or
sheetrock or lumber.  In my main location it is often really windy so I
didn't want the extra height and drag of the poptop.  When I do cook or wash
plates inside, I simply kneel on my carpet and when I move around in and
out, I do have to stay crounched...but I like not having the extra weight
and windage of the Westie roof and I don't need to sleep more than two
people inside ever.
   Another thing I found with other canvas sided pop-top campers I have
owned is they are not good around others for quiet...You hear everything
around you and many campers seem to think they are all alone and aren't
particularly quiet.
   The low roof set up is more 'stealth' also.  You have to look pretty
closely to see it is not a regular minivan or passenger vanagon.  I have
dark limo tinted windows in back and curtains that I put up with magnets for
camping.
  I leave my bicycle gear in the van almost all the time so wherever I end
up with some spare time I can just change clothes, fill my water bottles and
go for a ride, then come back and get a refreshment from the fridge and
rinse off my face, etc in the sink, hang up my bike gear inside and go on..
  Works for me..
  Don Hanson

So, what are some  experiences of others  with their various Van
>> configurations. And how did you outfit yourselves with your particular
>> rig.? I recently came into posession of a Carat, and I alread see
>> advantages to having the swing out table and cup holders, yet I'm glad
>> half the van isn't filled with cabinets. Gives me lots more flexibility
>> - and I hate being cramped for space in the bed area - and the Carat has
>> a full bed with the seat back folded down.
>>
>> Comments?
>>
>> Thanks
>>
>> --
>> John Rodgers
>> Clayartist and Moldmaker
>> 88'GL VW Bus Driver
>> Chelsea, AL
>> Http://www.moldhaus.com
>>
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