If there is one option that the vanagon  could use it would be automatic
tire chains.
School busses in my township, (because they rape us for taxes)  have
automatic chains.
I believe they were invented with my tax dollars.   Its a simple thing
that hang under the
bus and when engaged it drops and  spins in front of the tire.
Obviously  on some
type of spring setup.  A Vanagon may not have the room for these, but
maybe food for thought.

Todd Olson wrote:

>Hi Larry,
>Check these GoClaws out. I just found them online. I also have been thinking
>about getting chains for off-roading in my Westy. The GoClaws look like they
>would be the perfect solution and an excellent upgrade to the standard
>chains. It would appear that you can drive these on hard pack snow or
>pavement without rattling your fillings in your teeth loose. There are
>several videos to watch on the site to gain a better understanding of how
>they work.
>http://www.flextrax.com/index.php
>
>Wishing you many miles of smiles!
>
>Todd Olson
>Buses By the Beach
>
>Coming Events:
>Bus BRR! February 9th - 10th 2008 Angola, IN
>Bus Benefit! May 15th - 18th 2008 Grand Rapids, MI
>Bus Boo! September 12th - 14th 2008 Grand Rapids, MI
>For more information go to: www.busesbythebeach.com
>http://www.myspace.com/busesbythebeach
>
>What song is stuck in my head these days?
>Daisy May, "The Shoreline" from "Mother Moon"
>Check her out at: http://www.earthworkmusic.com/daisyMay/
>----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>Date:    Sun, 16 Dec 2007 13:10:15 -0700
>From:    Larry Himli <lhimli@AOL.COM>
>Subject: Snow chains
>
>Past experience with the 87 Westy in snow or sand hasn't been too good.=20
>Heading to Telluride over the holidays but don't want to chance hitting snow
>without better traction.  Any suggestions for chains, etc.  I've got
>standard 14" tires.  Thanks
>
>Larry
>
>------------------------------
>
>
>