I think Wenonah makes an 18# 18'6" solo marathon racing canoe.  A little
tippy for fishin' and campin though.  Probably would lift up with the westy
roof though.  I think the tandem model weighs a pound or two more.  Both
boats would cost more than most used vanagons.

DM&FS
----- Original Message -----
From: "Steven Denis" <NotaJeep@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Friday, December 14, 2001 4:38 PM
Subject: Re: canoe on a westy?

> In a message dated 12/14/01 5:04:33 PM Eastern Standard Time,
> poll7356@UIDAHO.EDU writes:
>
> << can i still lift the top if the canoe is on it (assuming it's strapped
to
>  the lifting section). >>
>  Ummm...Well.... I've use the  bolt on gutters on mine so the rack will go
> up..BUT.the canoe and even a LIGHT one..it's a bit much..with a 72 lb
Grumman
> up there it was  all #250 of me could do to open the roof..the springs
that
> balance the thing are closely matched to the weight of the top..then think
> "side thrust".. on the hinges...
> generally a BAD idea to lift the roof with anythig on it,
> if you have a super kevlar-spyderweb reinforced feather weight
> canoe/kayak?..sure..but what's the bid deal on taking it OFF
anyway?..OK..so
> short syncro owners have a gripe, but....
>
> Steven M. Denis
> 3642 Longleaf Drive
> Elm City, NC 27822
>
> "Hey! nice Jeep, Mister! "
> "Look kid, it's NOTAJEEP! "