I made a prototype/temporary repair using this idea.  you can see it at:

www.snurl.com/vanagon

Edward

At 01:56 PM 12/11/2004, you wrote:
>that gives me an idea.  replace the attached male plug with a short length
>of cord with male end on it.  (Attach the short cord to some sturdy part of
>the assembly.)  Leave the box behind the existing utility inlet but cut out
>the front where the attached male connector was.  This leaves a space to
>stuff the short cord with male end when not in use.  Close the cover to
>keep it tidy!  Then if you pull a bonehead like me and drive off with it
>plugged in, It just unplugs and doesn't break anything.
>
>Unfortunately I think I don't have enough left of my inlet to do this on
>mine...unless I want it to be 50% JB weld.
>
>Edward
>
>At 10:24 PM 12/10/2004, you wrote:
>>The simple fix for ripping things apart is this:
>>Use a 1 Foot long Extension cord for the connection to the Van.
>>If you drive off it will simply unplug itself frpm the long cord.
>>On the water connection use a light weight PVC 90 degree coupler made up
>>from hardware store parts (IE Water Hose Repair kit) and screw this part to
>>the van and the hose onto it.
>>If you drive off the light duty PVC just breaks off.
>>You might try J-B Weld to patch up the broken unit.
>>
>>Stan Wilder
>>Engine Ceramics
>>214-352-4931
>>www.engineceramics.com
>>----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Edward Maglott" <emaglott@BUNCOMBE.MAIN.NC.US>
>>To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>>Sent: Friday, December 10, 2004 8:54 PM
>>Subject: WTB: 110 VAC Electric hookup inlet
>>
>>
>> > The first time I got in trouble trying to move the van with the electric
>> > cord plugged in, it pulled the cord off of the end.  The second time I was
>> > being very careful, but...  the new cord was apparently stronger than the
>> > plastic of the utility inlet.  It cracked all to pieces and I need a
>> > replacement.  I actually don't need the box on the back that covers the
>> > connections.  I see Bus Depot has new ones for $50, but am interested in
>> > any offers.  Will consider any functional condition.  My old one had long
>> > lost its cover and my city water inlet also has no cover, so was thinking
>> > about fabricating matching covers for all 3 anyway.
>> >
>> > Thanks,
>> > Edward