Date:         Tue, 19 Jan 1999 21:54:30 -0800
Reply-To:     Björn <bratjen@DIRECT.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Björn <bratjen@DIRECT.CA>
Subject:      Syncro in snowstorm
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

We went skiing last weekend (6 in our Syncro Camper) with another family (5
in an Aerostar). On Sunday we had a nice big snowstorm which actually
started with freezing rain. Through the window we watched as others
struggled with chains in trucks, 4X4s and sedans. It was great entertainment
until it was our turn to pack the car with snow blowing horizontally. The
Aerostar (which really does not have much space for bags) struggled to get
out with chains after shoveling snow for about an hour. With the Syncro I
did not even put on chains and had no problems (Yokohama Superdigger tires).
I did not even engage the differential lock. With six people, bags, boots,
empty bottles inside and skis on the back (across on the Paulchen rack) we
still had room for more bags. 

The only problem was that the alternator first refused to work (red light,
Voltage at 10). I believe that the snow had blown into it and got the
brushes stuck. (I was not in the mood to unpack and check in this weather)
This was a bit concerning at first because we were in a situation where lots
of electricity was needed: wipers, lights, fan. It came back though after a
while and we were off. The heating could be a bit better but on the other
hand this way my hair thawed more gradually.

We had good skiing and good food (no Spam) on Mount Washington, B.C.

Björn