A good Dennis Haynes trailer hitch proves some protection in case of being
rear-ended.  Not totally, but some. The hitch has a cross bar that mounts
to the frame of the Vanagon with three large bolts on each side, very
stout. The whole thing will absorb a lot of energy before buckling in the
event of an accident. Might be enough to reduce the energy of an impact
somewhat before it enters into the body work itself, so repair would be
possible, whereas otherwise it would be improbable. Mine has saved my Van a
couple of times.
On Feb 25, 2015 10:59 AM, "Stuart MacMillan" <stuartmacm@gmail.com> wrote:

> In addition to adding shoulder belts (like Go Westy's) I'm adding head
> restraints this way:
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=303299&highlight=vwbusshop
>
> I got a couple of trashed seats for $50 for the head restraints and
> plastic tubes.
>
> The '80s were a different time.  Today, with so many distracted drivers,
> rear end collisions are on the increase.
>
> Stuart
>