Date:         Tue, 21 Dec 1999 22:32:36 -0600
Reply-To:     Budd Premack <bpremack@WAVETECH.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Budd Premack <bpremack@WAVETECH.NET>
Subject:      Re: How to tow/transport  a Vanagon?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

>U-haul has 4 wheel auto transporters, but these will be very heavy, so you
>will need an appropriate tow vehicle or you could wreck the transmission or
>burn valves of an undersized or underpowered tow vehicle.
>
>You could also rent a two wheel tow dolly, which is quite a bit lighter.
Be
>sure to put the rear end of the van on the dolly, towing it facing
>backwards.  The van's steering wheel must be tied securely so that the
front
>wheels will stay in the straight ahead position.
>
>You could tow either way with a van if you stayed in second gear, which is
>wholly impractical for the distance you need to go, but it would be okay
for
>shorter runs.
>
>I have had my share of towing busses and vans both ways.  The 4 wheel auto
>transporter is much more secure, although heavier.  I would choose it if
>possible.
>Too bad you aren't getting a 4 speed, which can be easily towed with a tow
>bar.  (I have done thousands of miles of towing that way, using my Syncro
as
>the tow vehicle.)  Don't ask why I have towed so much over the road, as I
>only have so much life left in my typing fingers.
>
>A good tow vehicle would be a full size pick up with a V-8, a full size
SUV,
>or best of all, a Suburban.  If you can't beg, borrow, or rent a good tow
>vehicle, then you will need to check auto transport companies.
>
>Maybe it would be easier/cheaper to fix the overheating in Washington.  Ken
>Wilford is only about two hours away (in NJ outside of Philadelphia).  He
>would be a great resource if you need any help, as his labor rates are very
>reasonable.  He might also be able/willing to bring the van to his shop,
fix
>it, and then you could drive it home from there.  You can contact him at
>kenwilfy@aol.com or by phone (609) 327-0027.
>
>BTW, the last time I drove from DC-Boston, it  was less than 500 miles.
>
>Good luck.  Let me (and the List) know how it all works out.  We all live
>vicariously through each other, so your troubles or successes are easily
>shared.
>
>Budd Premack
>86 Syncro, 73 Super
>Minneapolis, MN (Land of Sky Blue Waters)
>