| |
Subject |
Author |
Date Posted |
Forum
|
 |
RE: Ford Transit Van at the Old Nurburgring
While watching the video I thought of Lucy trying to prepare a meal in "The Long, Long Trailer" and wondered how my spouse would fare trying to fix me a sandwich why I drove the Nurburgring in our Sprinter.
"The Long, Long Trailer"
|
McK
|
11/11/09 10:30am |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
Ford Transit Van at the Old Nurburgring
If you want to see a professional drive a van on a race course:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KiC03_wVjc&feature=channel
BTW, the course is 12.93 miles long: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nurburgring
|
McK
|
11/10/09 12:07pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: netbook
No specific ideas but don't forget about the airbags, if installed.
|
McK
|
10/04/09 09:11pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Sprinter: is a furnace needed to supplement the cab heater?
If you need only supplemental heat to keep someone riding in the rear of the vehicle warm, you can buy small 12v plug-in heaters at Camping World, JC Whitney or most RV stores. That is what we use when our cold blooded teenage daughter travels with us. When plugged in, we use a small 120v ceramic heater. At its very lowest setting, it keeps the van at a very comfortable setting.
We had our Sportsmobile built without a furnace or propane system. We seldom boondock (never in below freezing weather). And my wife plans our menus so that any hot dishes are microwavable. Life without a propane system is much simpler as long as you do not intend to boondock very much.
We also did not have a generator installed. As we discovered when we had a Class C, the maintenance and upkeep of a generator was a major pain in the rear end. We only used it twice in three years.
Leaving out the propane system and generator was a major cost savings plus a major weight savings. Fully loaded and with passengers, our gross weight is well below max.
But again we are tourers and not campers. During the combined 42 years my wife and I spent in the Army, we did enough camping.
|
McK
|
08/26/09 03:22pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Stopped at McMahon's in Irvine to look at B's today
What about the Sportsmobile penthouse? It will sleep four.
http://sportsmobile.com/2_sr-penthouse.html
|
McK
|
07/30/09 08:59am |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Overnight Camping in Motel Parking Lot
I wonder why motels along the Interstates don't build a few pads/spaces for RVs? The additional cost would be very low especially if only electrical hookups were installed. A dump station and water point could be added but would not be necessary. If you wanted to use any of the motel's other facilities, you would pay extra for each.
Such a place would be a low cost alternative to boondocking.
I know that when we tour we would prefer to stay close to the Interstate rather than go looking for a campground. There are many KOAs along the Interstate but I hate paying for all of the camping related features that I will not use as I will be staying only overnight.
The nearest thing that I have seen to such a setup is on I-44 in Marshfield, MO http://www.rvexpressrvpark.com/ but it offers more features than I need and charges $30 a night. It is more of a RV park with a few motel rooms rather than a motel with a few RV sites.
|
McK
|
07/28/09 08:50pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Stopped at McMahon's in Irvine to look at B's today
Have you looked at the Sportsmobile website? You could design your own floorplan with sleeping for four. Sportsmobile will build what ever you want. There will, of course, be compromises.
|
McK
|
07/28/09 08:25pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Towing a small car
Having a toad with a B does seem to negate one of the major reasons for having a B in the first place.
On the other hand, when we picked up our Sprinter two years ago, the Sportsmobile facility in Austin was converting a short wheel base Sprinter that was going to be use as the Toad for a Class A. The owner was planning to use the A as his base camp and use the Sprinter to get into hard to reach places. It was being equipped with a huge array of batteries to be used in lieu of a generator.
|
McK
|
06/20/09 08:16pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Cover for Sprinter
Have you looked at Camping World?
http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/product/class-b-van-sfs-aqua-shed-covers/3358
Or Sprinter Accessories?
http://www.sprinteraccessories.com/051_van_cover.html
|
McK
|
06/10/09 07:29pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Roadtrek vs. Airstream Interstate
Since you are considering full-timing, have you looked at Sportsmobile? You could have one built to exactly match your needs.
http://www.sportsmobile.com/2_dyo-sr.html
|
McK
|
06/08/09 02:38pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: How quiet are the Sprinter conversions?
I've never noticed the noise in ours. I have no problem conversing with my wife or listening to the radio.
s
Overall, our Sportsmobile is much quieter than our previous Class C Coachman. Much less rattling and creaking.
|
McK
|
06/03/09 07:12pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Conversation with Michelin Dealers on new tires
From the Tire Rack website:
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tiretech/techpage.jsp?techid=138Tire Aging
Nothing Lasts Forever...and Tires Are No Exception
In the 1970s, bias ply tires wore out in about 15,000 miles during two years of service. In the 1980s, early radial ply tires wore out in about 40,000 miles during four years of service. And by the turn of the century, radial tires lasting 60,000 to 80,000 miles were providing four or more years of service on vehicles averaging about 15,000 miles per year. In all of these examples, the tire treads "wore out" before the rest of the tire "aged out."
However, not all of today's vehicles average15,000 miles per year. Multiple-vehicle families, occasionally used recreational vehicles and vehicles driven only for pleasure are driven fewer miles per year. Additionally, enthusiast vehicles trailered to events, shows, stored or put on display for extended periods of time put on far fewer miles. It's possible to encounter ten-year-old tires with significant remaining tread depth because they've been driven less than 1,000 miles a year!
Unfortunately, the growing realization that tires are perishable means that the tires on some of these vehicles will actually "age out" before they "wear out."
How long will tires last before aging out? The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and tire manufacturers are currently studying the many variables. Heavily loaded tires only driven occasionally in scorching climates face some of the most severe conditions, while lightly loaded tires driven every day in moderate climates experience the least severe. Add to that the amount of exposure to the elements (sun and atmospheric) and the quality of tire and vehicle maintenance practices (proper inflation pressure, wheel alignment, etc) and you have an idea of the complexity of the situation. While tire life will ultimately depend on the tires' service conditions and the environment in which they operate, the difficult task remains how to confirm and quantify it.
The current industry association recommendations regarding inspecting and replacing tires due to age originate outside the United States.
The British Rubber Manufacturers Association (BRMA) recommended practice issued June, 2001, states "BRMA members strongly recommend that unused tyres should not be put into service if they are over six years old and that all tyres should be replaced ten years from the date of their manufacture."
Environmental conditions like exposure to sunlight and coastal climates, as well as poor storage and infrequent use, accelerate the aging process. In ideal conditions, a tyre may have a life expectancy that exceeds ten years from its date of manufacture. However, such conditions are rare. Aging may not exhibit any external indications and, since there is no non-destructive test to assess the serviceability of a tyre, even an inspection carried out by a tyre expert may not reveal the extent of any deterioration."
More recently, The Japan Automobile Tire Manufacturers Association (JATMA) recommended practice issued May, 2005, states "customers are encouraged to have their vehicle tires promptly inspected after five years of use to determine if the tires can continue to be used (recommends spare tires be inspected as well). Furthermore, even when the tires look usable, it is recommended that all tires (including spare tires) that were made more than ten years ago be replaced with new tires. Additionally, because in some cases automobile makers—based on the characteristics of the relevant vehicle—stipulate in the owner's manual the timing of tire inspection and replacement. Please read and confirm the content of the owner's manual."
Several European vehicle manufacturers of high performance sports cars, coupes and sedans identify that "under no circumstances should tires older than 6 years be used" in their vehicle owner's manual. However, it should be noted that European recommendations must include driving conditions that include roads like the German Autobahn, which allows vehicles to be legally driven at their top speeds for extended periods of time.
While American driving conditions don't include the high-speed challenges of the German Autobahn, the U.S. divisions of DaimlerChrysler and Ford Motor Company joined their European colleagues in 2005 by recommending the tires installed as Original Equipment be replaced after six years of service. (General Motors declined to offer a recommendation until a more scientific analysis of driving conditions and tire aging could be completed).
Because many of the tires the Tire Rack offers are manufactured in Europe or Asia, it's common for us to receive new tires direct from the manufacturers that are six to nine months old. Additionally there are some instances where the tire manufacturer's minimum run quantities will produce enough tires to meet a few years of consumer demand for lower volume types and sizes. In these cases the tires we receive directly from the manufacturer may already be several years old. Finally, when we work with a tire manufacturer to help them clear a discontinued tire line out their distribution centers, this clearance frequently uncovers some new tires that are older. These tires are typically offered at a significant discount and will most likely be worn out within their useful lifespan. Since we rotate our inventory, most of the tires we ship are less than a year or two old.
It is also important to note that the more aggressive the tires' tread compound, the shorter its life. DOT-legal competition tires would have the shortest shelf live before the aging process would begin to diminish their performance. Sometimes the tires that were just right at the end of this season will be too aged to be fully effective the next year. Max Performance and Ultra High Performance tires would be next, and so on down the line.
Our experience has been that when properly cared for, most street tires have a useful life of between six to ten years. And while part of that time is spent as the tire travels from the manufacturing plant to the manufacturer's distribution center, to the retailer and to you, the remainder is the time it spends on your vehicle.
|
McK
|
05/31/09 09:19pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Conversation with Michelin Dealers on new tires
For Immediate Release
Monday, June 2, 2008 Contact: Rae Tyson
Telephone: (202) 366-9550
CONSUMER ADVISORY: Motorists Urged to Check Tires Before Summer Trips
The risk of a serious crash during hot weather can be heightened by tires that are worn out, under-inflated or too old, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said today.
To reduce the risk of a crash, NHTSA Administrator Nicole Nason urged motorists to have tires, including the spare, checked before embarking on a vacation journey.
“Protecting you and your family should be your top priority,” said Administrator Nason. “Getting your tires checked will significantly reduce the likelihood of a tire-related crash.”
NHTSA research shows that hot weather – and overloaded vehicles – can add significant stress to a tire, especially if it is not properly inflated. Old tires also are subject to greater stress, which increases the likelihood of catastrophic failure.
While tire condition is important for all vehicles, it is especially critical for those more prone to rollover when tires fail. That would include sport utility vehicles (SUVs), pickups or other vehicles with a higher center of gravity.
Consumers can check tire inflation with an inexpensive gauge, using the vehicle manufacturers’ recommended pressures, which are found on the driver’s side door pillar or in the owner’s manual.
The age of the tire can be determined by checking the identification number on the sidewall that begins with the letters "DOT". The last four digits represent the week and year the tire was manufactured.
Some tire and vehicle manufacturers have issued recommendations for replacing tires that range from six to ten years of age. Consumers are advised to check with their tire or vehicle manufacturer for specific guidance.
“Remember that it is vitally important to check your spare tire too,” said Administrator Nason. “Your spare can be a real safety hazard if it is old or under-inflated.”
For more information on proper tire care, along with NHTSA’s tire rating guide, visit www.safercar.gov.
|
McK
|
05/30/09 06:56pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: How do *you* sleep more than two in *your* van?
The fold-down sofa in our Sportsmobile Sprinter is large enough to sleep three adults. Last month, my wife and I took our 16 year old daughter on a college search (seven schools in eight days in six states). The three of us slept fine using L.L. Bean lightweight flannel sleeping bags. Also, Sportsmobile made a padded piece that fits across the front seats that provides sleeping space for a short adult or child.
And let me add that the Sprinter made it a pleasure to drive almost three thousand miles in eight days. Plenty of power, great handling, and a very comfortable driver's position. 22 mpg average.
Here are some photos of the sofa. That is our van in the photos with the gray fabric sofa.
http://www.sportsmobile.com/2_sr_exp_eb4.html
http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/sprinter/examples/images_ex/couches2.jpg
http://www.sportsmobile.com/sections/sprinter/examples/images_ex/couches3.jpg
|
McK
|
05/24/09 02:41pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Playing mp3 format cds
I've just replaced the stock radio in my Sprinter with a Sony MEX-BT2700. I also replaced the stock speakers which made a big difference in sound quality.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9202542&type=product&id=1218057726915
Not only does it have a AUX In jack, it is also Blue Tooth capable. That allows handfree calling if you cell phone has Blue Tooth. Plus I can use Blue Tooth to link my HP IPAQ pocket computer to the unit to play the 20gb of mp3 music files that I have on SD cards.
The unit is also HD and Satellite radio ready. I had the Sony HD receiver unit installed last week.
|
McK
|
05/08/09 05:07pm |
Technology Corner
|
|
RE: Looking for B with slides
Here is the link to Kamparoo:http://www.kamparoo.com/Features.htm
|
McK
|
05/07/09 01:09pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Looking for B with slides
I agree with the comments ref slideouts and Bs not being compatible.
I do wonder if something like the design concept used in the Kamparoo trailer could be adapted to replace the rear doors of a high roof Sprinter. A fold down instead of a slideout. Yes, you would lose interior storage space and there might be weight distribution issues.
http://www.kamparoo.com/Images/trans6.jpg
My gut feeling is that it would be cheaper and more convenient to just buy a Kamperoo or teardrop trailer to tow on those occasions when you need more sleeping space. Even cheaper would be to carry along a small tent.
Does anyone ever tow a small camping trailer when more space is required?
http://www.kamparoo.com/vacationer.htm
http://www.kamparoo.com/Images/Atv1.jpg
|
McK
|
05/07/09 01:08pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
Motorhome Racing
Watch a Class B (Toyota) compete against a Class A and several Class Cs.
Warning: Clip contains violence involving motorhomes.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohkAxbeMxVo&feature=channel
|
McK
|
05/03/09 02:57pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: Tire Replacement: OK, Gimme the Lecture
Ref Les Schwab lawsuit, this is the only ref I can find on Google:
"..two studded tires in the front can easily lose control because of uneven traction. Currently, Les Schwab Tire Centers Inc. is facing a $1.3 million lawsuit from the estate of a woman who was killed in ..."
http://tirebusiness.com/subscriber/sitesearch.html?q=schwab&page=12
That is from 1998. $1.3 million is quite a bit less than $150 million.
|
McK
|
03/18/09 10:17pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
|
RE: LAPTOP Stand
Have you plotted the trajectory the laptop will take when the airbags deploy?
|
McK
|
03/07/09 12:23pm |
Class B - Camping Van Conversions
|
