

| Subject: | Re: Stretched Vanagon with rear A/V Computer lounge |
| From: | Blue Eyes |
| Date: | Fri, 11 Dec 1998 16:04:15 -0600 |
Recently I provided to List members a conceptual image of an extended Westy. I've really been considering building a stretched Westy. After looking at list member Otmar Ebenhoech's stretched Westy (http://www.evcl.com/strvan/strvan.html), I decided that his creation called attention to itself in a way that might provoke unwanted police interest. To my eyes, it appears to be an individual's modification rather than a factory offering. I want more room, but I'd like to keep the appearance from generating that kind of curiosity. So I started playing with different alteration approaches. I tried adding a little more space both before and after the rear axle. That retained a normal appearance and increased internal room. But I wasn't able to make those incremental floor plan changes provide the new functionality I wanted. Then, the concept of curb side double sliding doors sharing a common track occurred to me. I felt this was an elegant concept. I confess I'm often seduced by such elegance. For example, the multiple uses of space before the Westy closet door does that to me. I aspire to match such clever models. My double door model implies certain minimum dimensions, but doesn't limit extension increases because it would be easy to extend the shared door track. I wanted a relaxing place to enjoy computer/TV/reading activities, in other words, a lounge. But I wanted to minimize conflict from lower bed use while another enjoys this space. That precluded placing rearward facing seats on the motor deck. So I had to choose between sidewise seating for one or two persons. I chose two. That choice determined the extension length. This arrangement allows a simple curtain to provide front/rear privacy isolation when it's wanted. I've even toyed with thoughts of using a four corner electric bed elevation system like that in the Trek motorhome. That would allow another bed to be stored tightly against this new area's ceiling. Due to overhang constraints, if there's ever been a Westy version that needs taller tires and a suspension lift, this is it. But I believe a WW camper well modified according to this plan could function well and be a most pleasing vehicle for use on public roads. You saw one view of the result. Thanks for your interest and comments. John
Have something to add on this topic today? Revive this thread in the forum »