The turnbuckles (I have 2 ... and 2 vanagons) measure from tip to tip when
the ends are screwed all the way in ... 8" and 6 1/2".  I like the 8" one
better.  Both can be extended out more by turning the buckles.

The hatch extender shown at Eurocampers is, from the photograph, a
substantial piece of hardware and should offer no security risk.

Mike

> What size turnbuckle did you use?
> Jerry
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "tolga" <tolga@MAC.COM>
> To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
> Sent: Monday, January 10, 2005 11:29 PM
> Subject: Re: items at EuroCampers.com
>
>
>> That's a great idea.  I'll give it a try tomorrow!  Thanks Mike.
>>
>> >Tolga,
>> >
>> >I use a turnbuckle with an "Eye" on one end and a "Hook" on the other.
>> >
>> >I fit the hook around the peg on the van's body then shut the hatch
>> >against
>> >the eye end ... the latch engages the eye.  It cannot be removed without
>> >opening the hatch if I lock the turnbuckle by tightening nuts against
>> >the
>> >TB's body.  The cost was less than $4.00 ... and no shipping as they are
>> >available at hardware stores.
>> >
>> >Mike