SNIP

> These joints really don't work all that hard in the Vanagon since most
> of the weight is in the back.

SNIP

Let's disspell some persisting rumors about the Vanagon's weight
distribution.  Here's a snippet from a previous post.  Look at the weight
distribution:

Let us shed some light on the Vanagon's weight bias.  The following specs
are for the '86 Syncro Westfalia.
(http://www.tiu.net/~des/vw/reports/synchro.html)

DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase ........................ 96.6 in
Track, F/R ....................... 62.4 / 61.8 in
Length ........................... 179.9 in
Width ............................ 72.6 in
Height ........................... 82.1 in
Ground Clearance ................. 8.3 in
Curb Weight ...................... 4000 lb
Weight distribution, F/R ......... 49.3 / 50.7 percent
Fuel capacity .................... 18.4 gal
Oil capacity ..................... 4.2 qt
Water capacity ................... 18.5 qt