>>I thought the BA6
>>could be run while the engine was off... the issue is just that the
>>timer only allows a few minutes (ie: its not thermostatically
>>controlled). Other issues is it can be a fuel pig and a battery hog.

Hey List,
The BA6 furnace in our '85 Westfalia works with the engine off.  The heater is equipped with a mechanical timer (I am sure the timer will last for almost an hour) and a thermostat.  We do not use this heater much because of the noise and the smell of the exhaust and fear that it will kill our battery.  I think if the heater was used more the smell would go away (at least part of the smell comes from burning dust).  The heater does produce lots of heat so it can be used to warm the van before getting ready for bed or first thing in the morning.
I believe that there are better options for comfort heating while camping (Propex etc.)
George,
'85 Westfalia