My current thinking is that the Plat Cat vented catalytic is the way to go
because:

1.  Its at least $100 cheaper than all the other safe alternatives
2.  It uses less propane and less electricity than the alternatives
meaning that it can be run for several days on the westy propane tank and
electical usage basically is'nt an issue which means you can leave it on a
low temp and keep the interior above freezing to prevent the h20 tank from
from freezing while camping
3. It can be installed so that its completely removable

The plat cat is'nt being made right now but Arnie lind says production
will resume soon.  He has a waiting list for rebuilt units (i'm next :)),
that sell for $350-$450.

If you're interested in getting one you can email arnie at:
arnielind@hotmail.com

Also visit harold and nancy's website at:
http://www.geocities.com/harald_nancy/plat_cat_heater.htm

which talks about the heater and installation in a westy.

-Andrew Fox
86 Westy GL
Ft. Collins CO

On Tue, 9 Oct 2001, Finn Runyon wrote:

> Waht is the current thinking on heaters...I just spent a wonderful weekend in
> the catskill mountains, snow and all, and think I may purchase some heat.
> Please forward your thinking...
> Finn Runyon
> 87 Westy GL (170000K) named Pooh
>