Date:         Thu, 8 Sep 2011 11:55:28 -0700
Reply-To:     BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Convert '85 Westy to trailer?
Comments: To: Graham Janson <graham.janson@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <CACWn1ZEnyO_+o1Wh7XVjOY63R5B_7fzZxn38=MdZDGvDKV7DgQ@mail.gmail.com>
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Graham,

Others have done it. A simpler operation might be just to install a towbar. Vanagons tow fairly well. You can change your mind later and still have a self-propelled camper.


BenT

sent from my electronic leash

On Sep 8, 2011, at 11:35 AM, Graham Janson <graham.janson@GMAIL.COM> wrote:

> Hi folks
> 
> I've been mulling this idea over for a few weeks now, and wanted to throw it
> out for opinions. The motivation for the question is that my new job will
> see me out of the country for periods of six weeks to six months at a time

> (generally closer to the latter).
> 
> I love my 1985 camper but leaving it sitting for months at a time doesn't
> seem practical. Has anyone ever converted a Vanagon camper into a trailer?

> Losing the self-propelled aspect would be a bummer, but I could still keep

> my van and tow it behind my truck as a camping trailer.
> 
> Details-wise: I envisage removing engine, transmission, wheels, suspension,
> steering etc., and welding on (or bolting on?) a trailer axle (or two?) in

> the middle-ish. Using a long axle (i.e. with wheels outside the body rather
> than recessed in wheel wells) would provide additional lateral stability and
> allow the sliding door to open. Finally a tongue would be welded on.
> 
> Or should I just let it go?
> 
> Graham