Hi,
I'm new to the list and am considering a Vanagon (syncro?) camper for
touring, camping and some minor city driving.  I have owned several air cooled vw's
and do most of my own mechanical work.
I have two initial questions as to whether or not a Vanagon would work for
me, and what model/year would best fit my needs.
First is regarding the air conditioning.  I live in the desert (Cave Creek,
Arizona) and really need reasonably decent AC.  I don't expect SUV/V8
performance obviously.  But what can I expect?
Second, I plan on extensively touring the western US.  I have toured Europe
in a 66 camper.  The Alps were not fun.  How does a Vanagon perform in the
mountains?  What kind of speed can I expect climbing the Rockies?
I truly hope that I can make a Vanagon work for me.  I love Volkswagens, and
particularly enjoy the camaraderie of the vw community.

TIA

Doug Bohm