I've driven across the Mojave (during the day) in my Westy Syncro
(before the AC was recharged.) A wash clothe and water were very
helpful in keeping cool. 100 degrees in the desert is bad without
water, but with water is quite tolerable. The low humidity means that
evaporation of water (or sweat) will help keep you cool.

Now 100 degrees down in Houston is awful. Actually at any temperature
being down in Houston is awful :p

On Mar 22, 2009, at 12:20 AM, craig cowan wrote:

> Well guys, i'm planning to pack my bags for the summer and head West
> from
> Pennsylvania to Nevada. Some people have pointed out to me that my van
> doesn't have AC and claim i should bring along a gallon of water and
> a shot
> gun, to kill myself soon after entering the area. I'm no stranger to
> driving
> with the windows down, but i'm curious to hear first hand experience
> from a
> vanagon driver without AC in a desert area......
>
> I have the option of driving a "car" with AC instead, but there's no
> fun in
> that!
>
> I've experienced plenty of 110* weather, but never drove in it,
> without A/C.
>
> Feel free to respond off-list if you don't want to clutter up peoples
> inboxes.
>
> -Craig
> '85GL turned WESTY