the aerodynamics thing is really interesting. the dehler high top that
someone of the list bought in germany a few days ago featured a catalogue
picture with a german text about the aerodynamics. yes, the westy poptop has
the worst aerodynamics, but streamlined hightops like the dehler or sca
actually have significantly less wind resistance than the plain van.
florian

On 11/24/05, Jeff Palmer <icecoldvw@hotmail.com> wrote:
>
> Disclaimer:  I know nothing about aerodynamics.
>
> But, assuming this is true for a headwind, is this true for sidewinds?  In
> my old high top, I would have the steering wheel cranked 30 degrees to
> keep
> the fan moving straight ahead with strong crosswinds.
>
> Jeff
>
> > Another reason for the high pop top is aerodynamics.
> >
> > The Westy arrangement is almost the worst possible aerodynamics on a
> > Vanagon. The luggage carrier adds to turbulence and the higher angle of
> > the luggage carrier adds to the frontage area of the windshield.
> >
> > Other hightops have less turbulence, because they took a more raked
> > line from the top of the windshield (as these high pop-tops do too.)
> >
> >
> >
> > Kim Brennan
> > 86 Syncro. 91 Westy Syncro. 90 Tristar
> > Vienna VA. Sugar Grove WV.
> >
> >
>