On 4 Nov 2007 at 15:25, Chris S. <mrpolak@YAHOO.COM> wrote:

> >I've wondered why Vanagons are generally not considered to be good in
>  ice or
> >snow, as the configuation is so similar and my Corvan is simply
>  excellent.
> >Perhaps because the Corvan has a 50/50 front/rear weight distribution
> >instead of a front weight bias?
>
> Well, guess what?  The Vanagon does have a 50/50 weight distribution.

In theory, yes, but often, when driven with two adults up front, it could be closer to 60/40. My
Westy typically loaded for camping with 2 adults front, 2 kids rear, and lots of gear, is still
55/45 F/R. It may not seem like much of a difference, and perhaps it isn't significant. But I do
know that my van behaves a lot better in snow with 300lbs over the engine lid...

Shawn Wright
http://members.shaw.ca/vwdiesels
'88 Westy 1.6TD 5 speed
'85 Jetta Diesel 1.6NA