on 1/21/02 4:23 PM, phil hans at hansph_99@YAHOO.COM wrote:

> What are people's opinions of the best way to drive
> over steep passes with the vanagon?

I climbed the 11,313' Monarch Pass in Colorado in my 81 Westy and the last 4
miles or so I was in second gear, doing about 29-30 mph(the shift point is
at about 34 mph).  Since I have no tachometer, I have no idea what the
engine speed was but my van was no worse for the wear when I reached the top
and the engine temps quickly fell back to normal ranges as I headed
downhill.  However, I do not recommend shutting it off after a long hard
climb as it seemed mine was to prone to "vapor lock" and I had trouble
re-starting.  Of course, you can always point yourself downhill and resort
to a classic rolling start!

Just my experience.  Go for it!...slowly!

--
Melissa Mourkas
81 Westy Basic Camper 'Hilde'