Hello list!

I took my '85 Vanagon Westy, the 'Syncro' without the 'yncro', on a nice off-road ride today.  It was an area where, at one time, a business dug up sand for sale to  the local construction companies.

I must say I was quite pleasantly surprised at the off-road capabilities of my Vanagon!  I went up washed out inclines, ruts and some soft, sandy areas where I would not dream to take my previous van, a Ford Aerostar.  Not once did I bog down.  The Vanagon had plenty of bite and the unusually tall stance of my Westy must have helped also.  This thing climbed very well.  Considering the area I drove is usually used by four wheelers, I was surprised to have this much fun and not get stuck.  I also noticed when I intentionally dumped the clutch and spun the rear wheels, both rears left a mark on the soil and the van surged forward impressively, almost as if I had a limited slip differential.  On one incline the road was very uneven.  I though I was going to spin out and lose traction, but the Vanagon just swayed left and right, dug in and pushed itself up the hill.  All this without four wheel drive.

I'll be back!

Chris.

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