On 14 Dec 2004 14:37:58 -0800, "Tyler Durden"
> wrote:

>I get out of the Army in a year and my wife and I plan to do nothing
>more than travel around the country visiting friends and blowing some
>savings. I've been kinda caged up in a uniform for 8 years, and it's
>time to decompress and get a little perspective. I envision the camper
>we travel in as representing the key that unlocks that cage. So this is
>important! See?
>
>That being said, I'm looking for something that can handle snow really
>well as we will ultimately end up landing in Alaska. I started this
>search because I was so enamored with the old VW Westphalia Syncro (an
>AWD VW camper van). But it occured to me that a 1992 (the last year
>they made them) model anything is too old. So my quest has led me to
>find the 4x4 Sportsmobile (www.sportsmobile.com) conversion vans and
>the GTRV folks in British Columbia (www.gtrv.com). They both seem to
>build some fantastic products, although they are a little pricey
>compared to the old Westies. Any opinions on these?
>
>My real concern that I can't kick is gas milage. I'm trying desperately
>to have my cake and eat it too. I want an AWD or 4x4 full camper
>(meaning at a minimum stove, water, fridge, sleeps 4) that will do at
>least 20 mpg. If all the stars aligned, someone out there knows how to
>make this happen. And yes, I realize this may spark the diesel debate -
>but I'd go diesel if it was designed for fuel efficiency as a first
>consideration instead of tourque (european style).
>What would you look at buying if you were me?


I own and swear by the GM Astro/Safari vans for their AWD. Awesome on
snowy/icy roads and do OK off-road, as long as you realize just how
limited the ground clearance is. Gas mileage is respectable at just
over 20 mpg on the highway. If you wanted to build your own camper
van, you can find AWD Astro/Safari vans from $1,500 for well used up
to $30,000+ for brand new.

Over the years there have been several companies building small
motorhomes based on these vans. Some full blown class C's as well as
smaller versions with pop tops. Currently, this company makes what
appears to be a nice van motorhome:

http://www.tigermotorhomes.com/tiger-xl/index.htm

If you wanted more off-roadability from these vans, check out:

www.overlandvans.com

They offer lift kits that will allow 31" tires to be installed.

The drivetrain on these vans are common pieces and you can also do
some mixing and matching from other GM offerings to add true 2-speed
transfer cases and/or a front axle with a disconnect.

Just another option for your consideration. (For more info on
Astro/Safari vans, check out the message forums at
www.astrosafari.com.)

Matt
99 V-10 Super Duty, Super Cab 4x4
96 GMC Safari AWD Hi-Top Conversion