I too thought the van again was a pig when it came to traction. When I had my transmission rebuilt I decided to have a torque biased differential added. Turned out to be a very good decision, as I have never been stuck since, and I use to get stuck on flat ground in my driveway on the ice. It also helps cornering, but does require a little different way of driving, namely you need to accelerate as you come around, and out of turns. One of the nicer upgrades I've done to the Vanagon.

Best,

Troy