Add a Hitch carrier to the side of your van..
Nothing says watch out in work zones like a hitch carrier loaded with gas & a generator

I don't see anything on the other side to balance this rig out..
so it makes great right turns not so great left turns.

Not a Vanagon, but a solid idea everyone should avoid considering.
Hell it'd be safer up on the front..

http://www.ebay.com/itm/161341945636