In a message dated Mon, 14 May 2001 10:51:44 AM Eastern Daylight Time, Steve Shane <shane_steve@hotmail.com> writes:

<< <snip>
Cuz your key factor is your brakes. Vanagon brakes are
maxed out to begin with, and when you add a trailer, your breaking ability
goes to pot!!!!!!! BIG TIME! Leave tons of extra room... NO JOKE!<snip>>>

Actually, the breaking ability of any Vanagon is remains extremely high regardless of towing load.  You are correct, however, that the brakes are marginal at best even with no load.

Chuck
'85 Wolfsburg Westy -- 'Roland the Road Buffalo'