--------- original message ------------------

I have seen all three installed on Syncros, and I have the following
comments:

1. The Ortec unit looks kinda cheap and flimsy, particularly compared to the
quality of a Paulchen rack, for example.  It is made from zinc-plated steel
tubing that appears to be fairly thin-walled.  The brackets don't look like
they fit quite right, and I would not personally want one installed on my
Syncro.  It reminded me of those aluminum folding chairs that you bring to
the beach - it they get bent, they never quite fold up right again
afterwards.  Like the beach chairs, they apparently do the job for some
people, though.

2. Gary Lee's unit appears to be of excellent quality and workmanship
(similar or even superior to the Paulchen racks).  The big drawback in my
mind is that you will not be able to open the rear hatch very easily with a
15" tire mounted back there.

3. The OEM $3,000 unit is truly a thing of beauty.  Stoutly built, very nice
workmanship.  The brackets all apear to fit the body and bumper of the
Vanagon perfectly, and it opens and closes without sagging or catching.  And
the wheel cover that says "Syncro" is so trick.   Unfortunately, there are
VERY few of us that can justify spending $3,000 for a spare tire carrier.
(that is more than an entire set of brand new 15" tires and fancy 15"
wheels!)

Summary:
If someone was to build a unit based on the OEM Syncro unit and sell it for
$500 or less, I would seriously consider buying one.  In the absence of
something like that, I may stick to 14" wheels and tires forever....

---------- reply ----------------

I missed the first part of this thread, sorry if I'm out of context or out
of line ..........

I have been thinking about building a swing away carrier for a couple of
years now.  Maybe now I should get off my ass and do it.
I have been holding back because I assumed demand would not be very high.
It's only of interest to syncro owners who have gone to bigger wheels.  I
would expect the price would be less than $400.

What side should the hinge be on?  If its on the drivers side, I expect that
you would have to remove the westy cabinet to get access for hinge
installation.  That would be a big hassle.  The OEM VW carrier is on the
right (passenger) side, so maybe that's best.

Any suggestions for design or features you would want?
Maybe I could make it a multipurpose "swing away" carrier so that you could
carry either a tire or a gas can or maybe a couple of bikes, for example.

Thanks
Gary Lee
http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/vanagonrack.htm