I'm a professional carpenter/contractor and I use my '87 Syncro for a work
vehicle.  I most weight that I have put into my Vanagon was somewhere around
2400 + lbs. including 30 - 60# bags of concrete mix (1800 lbs), at least 400
lbs of tools; hammers, saws, drills, sanders, wheelbarrow, shovels, rakes,
garden hoses, nails and screws, plus 230 lbs of me and my lunch!
I had no problems getting up to road speed, just took a little longer.
Braking was moderately affected but not at all dangerous to me or other
drivers.  Even with 45 lbs of air in the MXT's, it had a nice smooth ride.

A note of caution:
I keep my van in top condition just for this sort of thing.  I don't
recommend loading any van beyond it's rated capacity and it's relative
condition.

One last thing......Anyone have info about the VW show in Puyallop Washington?

Andrew Martin
'87 Syncro
180K
Poulsbo WA