Most of the tow hook mounted hitches are rated at 1,100 lbs. If all is
well, the van will tow 1,500 lbs with little effort. Since the automatic
does not have a lock up torque converter, you need to be aware of fluid
heating if the engine is pushing hard for extended periods. You need to
check the laws where you plan to tow to se if trailer brakes are
required. Some states require them as low as 1,000 lbs.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Warner, Jeff (DSIO)
Sent: Wednesday, July 14, 2004 4:36 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Towing a Boat?

Volks,

Apparently I don't already have enough projects to work on.  It looks
like I'm actually considering buying a boat.  I suppose its primary
function will be to sit in the driveway and slowly disintegrate in front
of my eyes while taking up valuable real estate.  The occasional trip to
the lake will probably be a good idea too.

My question to the list is a basic one.  Who's towing a boat with their
Westy and what size boat have you successfully towed?  The word
"successfully" to me would generally mean not taking undue risks with
either our lives or the well being of the Westy.

I'm currently looking at a 19' bow rider with a single axle trailer.
I've no idea yet what its axle weight or tongue weight is.  My '86
Wolfsburg Westy is a fairly capable stock 2.1 automatic with a wonderful
big brake kit recently installed.  The hitch, which is not yet
installed, is a substantial unit that bolts permanently to the bumper
brackets.  I don't have to use the Westy to tow the boat but it sure
would be a nice way to go.  The trip to the lake we would most often be
going to is pretty much a flat adventure and about 30 miles.

Thanks in advance for any input.

Jeff Warner
Galloway, OH
'86 Wolfy Westy

PS. Please no lectures or side discussions on the cons of towing
anything with a Westy.  I'm well aware of the general anemic nature of
our toy boxes.  I just want to know what's possible and/or what anyone
is successfully doing on a regular basis.