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1/30/2011

Refrigerated Vans - How To Save 90%

Are you in need of refrigerated vans?
You may want to think twice before you make your purchase. Reefer vans will end up costing you more, not only to buy, but also to operate and repair. One alternative to vans that many people are finding more effective and less costly are portable cooler trailers.

The initial purchase price of an insulated van is much more than that of a refrigerated trailer.
For example, vans can cost anywhere from around $38,000 to $70,000 brand new. Many businesses do not need vehicles as big as large reefer trailers, and as such, are happy to pay considerably less for a cooler trailer, which is amply sized for their business and which in many respects outperforms the larger trailers or vans. In fact, a refrigerated trailer cost 90 percent less than reefer vans, which is an incredible initial savings.

The savings do not stop there, however. Trailers will also cost you much less to insure than a van and since they are simply towed by your own vehicle, they cost virtually nothing at all to run. In fact, the only fuel they use is that which is used for cooling if a generator is being used to power the refrigeration unit during transportation. While standing, the unit can be plugged into a standard 110 volt system.

These small reefer trailers can also be detached from the main vehicle and left standing on site while the vehicle that towed the trailer is free to use for other business that comes up throughout the day. This is very helpful for businesses with only one or two vehicles, as they will not need to tie up any one vehicle for an entire day simply because the refrigeration unit is needed at another location. They are great for people in the catering, florist, restaurant or wedding industries, or for any small business owner who frequently needs to provide refrigeration for the transport of food or other items on a regular basis.

Perhaps best of all, is the use of standard refrigeration on the portable refrigerated trailer which allows any refrigeration mechanic in town to work on equipment. The key is to modify the standard refrigeration system for transportation use. Built to run off a generator or 115 volt electricity, makes them extremely cheap and easy to repair, whereas vans need specialized maintenance. There will be no more costly repairs needing to be done by a refrigeration expert in the unlikely event that anything does break down in the unit.

From base cost, insurance cost and maintenance expense alone, the refrigerated trailer will easily save you over 90% on refrigerated vans and put the profits back in your pocket where they belong.

1/28/2011

Night Runner Speaker Covers

These 6" covers were sold by Rally Accessories Inc in the 1980's. They'll be going into my '81 Dodge van :D

1/24/2011

Choose From the Best in Lihue Rental Cars

Lihue is the county seat of Kauai County, Hawaii. It is quite a large town, served by the Lihue airport and a seaport called the Nawiliwili Bay, in the town's southeast. An educational and commercial centre, Lihue can make for a memorable vacation for you and your family, but only if you prepare well in advance. One of the important factors that you need to take care of before setting out for Lihue is transportation. In Lihue, rentals cars are the best option when it comes to traveling around the city.

Reasons to Hire Lihue Rental Cars

Unlike most other large towns in Hawaii, Lihue warrants special attention to transportation within the city and its neighboring regions. This is because:

* Public transport, like buses, is crowded, few in number and not available on weekends.
* Private transport, like taxis, is extremely expensive. Shuttle services are available at fixed times and operate only between fixed destinations.
* Many roads are off limits for vehicles and only drivers and staff of rental cars can correctly advise you on the right routes to take.

Types of Lihue Rental Cars

The best car rental agencies will offer you a variety of vehicles to choose from. The first step is to list out what all you will need in terms of features in your rental vehicle. After this, you can choose from:

Economy/Subcompact cars: You can get good deals on models like the Chevrolet Aveo, Kia Rio and Hyundai Accent, which provide all the basic facilities at a fair price and are low on fuel consumption. The latter feature makes them ideal if you are looking for inexpensive driving on Lihue's congested single lane roads.

Convertibles: These are the perfect vehicles for you and your family to chill out in or explore even as you enjoy the feel of that glorious Hawaiian sunshine on you. Rent a Chrysler Sebring, a Ford Mustang or a Chevy Camaro for that unmatched mix of comfort and luxury in your travel through Lihue. Always take the precaution of closing the windows and the top down in your convertible to be safe from bugs and chickens, both of which are very common in this tropical island.

Mini Vans: Opt for a minivan if you are looking for a comfortable driving experience, and spacious seating for around 7 people. Some of these cars have seats that can be adjusted to fit in additional luggage. Being fuel efficient, they are ideal for Lihue's congested single lane roads. Their sliding doors make it easy to embark or disembark from these vehicles in crowded areas. You can take your pick of Ford Freestar, Chrysler Town and Country, Dodge Caravan.

Passenger vans: Passenger vans are the best way to travel around Lihue for larger groups. Comfortable and spacious, the 12 passenger van variety is the most commonly hired of rental vehicle in Lihue.

1/22/2011

Low Rider

A 66 éves szomszéd Teri néni kocsijával történő furikázás...

1/20/2011

1/19/2011

Courier Work - Our Top 5 Vans

In terms of deciding what's most important for your courier work you need to consider your priorities - comfort, size, speed, parking, economy and yes, even to be superficial - good looks! (Because really, let's face it - who doesn't secretly want to be dating the best looking AND smartest girl in town!) Of course, everyone's different and this is by no means a definitive list - one mans pride and joy may well be another mans worst nightmare! But in the interest of fairness and equality we have selected (in no particular order) to feature vehicles that have been tried and tested by guys in the know, and we think cover all the bases. You decide!

PEUGOT PARTNER
For mid size courier work this workhorse has very few downsides. It has a great cab capacity (it actually holds three which is unusual for a van this size) and lots of dash room for those essential extras - drink, pens, A to Z's, atlases, and lunch! It's a sturdy little fellow and one of the best things about it is the easy access to the storage area. It has twin asymmetric back doors, and a sliding nearside door that can you save loads of time and awkward load stacking. It comes with a 1.6L diesel engine that really holds its own even on the motorway, and the powerful optional air-conditioning is also a welcome feature. (If you're test-driving in summer, give it a burst and you'll be sold! In terms of economy, the Partner gets about 45mpg, which is pretty great news for the owner driver in these times when a bigger van can seem thirstier than you on a Friday afternoon!

MERCEDES BENZ SPRINTER
Just the name Mercedes evokes respect, and driving around in one of these do your reputation wonders! Any owner driver lucky enough to be considering a Sprinter can be pretty well assured it is one of the top of the line vehicles for courier work. It's one of the larger vans on the road and its four cylinder, five or six speed transmission will get you out and on the along the motorway in record time. It has a huge load capacity, (up to 1400kg) and its hinged rear doors open out to 180 degrees as well as having a sliding left door as well for easy access. It's a simple matter to load up and head off looking good! There's loads of stowage in the cabin in the doors, centre console and above the windscreen, and the power steering will have you turning on a sixpence. This is one of the fastest vans on the road, and the 22-30 MPG fuel consumption is not bad for one so nippy. To say she's a looker would be an understatement - with a streamlined Arctic White exterior, pert little snout, and the iconic Mercedes insignia shining on the bonnet, this is a girl with a whole lot of class. With the huge range available and Mercedes' renowned reliability this one is ideal for the owner driver - but be warned this much style and class doesn't come cheap!

CITROEN RELAY
The Relay is a real gem in terms of driving satisfaction, so for courier work it's a great choice. It is Citroens largest van available and it handles top notch out on the road and on the motorway. The cabin is so quiet you really feel like you're in a car, and safety features like the standard driver's airbag and ABS are standard so you can rest easy in the knowledge that the only extra option you'll need to pay for is your courier insurance! There are various models available (about 30, in different wheel base and load capacities) and all have impressive standard on board features. The Relay is one of our favourites for security too - it's fitted with an immobilizer and deadlocks, so no ones getting in without your say so! In the cabin, it's the little extras that will make your day when it comes to your courier work. There's a handy document clipboard, and the passenger seat folds down to make a great office away from the office without getting yourself in a mess. And talk about looking good! This is one classy ride, and if you choose to buck the white van man standard and opt for the fire-engine red model - you'll be making a statement for your business that can't be missed!

FORD COURIER
This is an oldie but a goodie! We thought we'd throw this one in even though they are no longer in production. The last year model was 2003, but if you're new to the game and considering taking on some courier work, you can still pick yourself up a very reasonably priced second hand one, and this could be a perfect option for you. Although this is quite a basic van, you don't feel like you're missing out on too much. The later models have power steering, but the earlier ones still handle exceptionally handle well, and even with a full load you don't feel like you're under any strain. It has great leg room in the cabin and a surprisingly large load capacity for such a small looking van. There is also a rear window which helps with parking, and really makes this an ideal transition from driving a car to a van if you're a first time owner driver. The market in these is still quite strong as they have a well-deserved reputation as a reliable working vehicle. You won't have any problems with economy in either the petrol or more popular diesel versions, and this little baby still looks good even if she is a little outdated!

RENAULT KANGOO
Yee ha! What a little beauty! We love the Kangoo - it is the perfect zippy little van for your city courier work, and out on the motorway - look out! It comes in a van and a compact body (although for versatility we prefer the van) with up to 800kg load capacity. You'll get ABS, driver's airbag, radio/CD, height adjustable steering wheel and loads of other extras standard. If you choose the ML+ model you'll also get a left loading sliding door in addition to the back openers, for those courier jobs that require a bit of creative load stacking! The Kangoo has a great panoramic windscreen, and you also sit a little higher in the front than other small vans, so it feels really spacious to drive. For a full time owner driver , or just if you want to do a few self employed courier jobs, this good looking, practical little mover will hold its own against any of the more established models on the road.

1/17/2011

Sprinter - Who Should Buy the Dodge Sprinter?

The Dodge Sprinter comes in three models-a passenger van, cargo van and chassis cab. There is also an extended roof option for even more interior space and comfort. Now, you're probably wondering who in the world needs this funny bread box of a vehicle. It looks bulky and is more expensive than similar vehicles in its class. Well, believe it or not, the Sprinter is for everyone-even you. If you fall into even one of these categories, this van is for you:

* Business Owner

If your business is to offer a product or a service to customers, this vehicle may make your life easier. Plumbers, electricians, house painters-you name it, the Sprinter can haul your equipment. The spacious cargo area and tall walls allow for shelving and cabinets to organize work tools.

Or, maybe you deliver things as a business. There's tons of room for plants, flowers, packages, baked goods and more. Maybe you own a daycare and need safe transportation for the children. This vehicle is equipped with an arsenal of safety features just right for the job.

You look at the cost and think you can't afford it, but in the end the vehicle pays for itself. It gets better gas mileage than its competitors and handles corners and small roads like a dream. Oh, and all of its parts and pieces are German-made by Mercedes so you know it's a quality vehicle.

* Club or Organization

The Sprinter is a great investment for any group or organization that needs to transport people or cargo. Churches, retirement homes, little league clubs and more can all benefit from the roomy and comfortable ride. You can safely transport people on field trips or simply providing them a ride to a function.

* Parent

Ok, not just a parent, but a parent with a large family. The Sprinter comes standard with 12 passenger-seating and there is still room in the back for backpacks and luggage. If you have a large family, you know how expensive it is to travel and this van allows you to do it on the ground in comfort and with great gas mileage. Bring back the days of family vacations and quality time together. There's even room for the family dog to come along.

* Outdoor Enthusiast

If you love hiking, camping, fishing or extreme sports, you can trick out your ride to accommodate all the bulky equipment you'll need. The roomy interior is just right for surf boards, skis, snowboards, fishing poles and all the other gear you need to enjoy your outdoor lifestyle. Plus, there's room to bring your friends along too. If you like to camp, you can customize your vehicle and turn it into a mini-RV.

So you see, the Sprinter really does have something for pretty much everyone. If you think it doesn't, just envision the large cargo area as a blank canvas ready for you to make it your own. You can make it as luxurious or basic as you want. It is easily converted to suit the needs of every owner.

1/16/2011

Wheelchair Van Jargons

When you try to buy a wheelchair van you may end up getting dizzy listening to all of those jargons the salesman just said. Well, here you can find some of them with a brief explanation. I hope this can help you make a better buying decision with less headaches. These are not exactly "jargons" but some terms that has a high chance getting said over and over again by wheelchair van salesmen.

1. Van conversion

A wheelchair van is not originally a wheelchair van when it's out of the assembly line. They are designed and manufactured as ordinary passenger vans targeted at the mass market. A van conversion is the process where a van is customized with a wheelchair ramp or a wheelchair lift. The interior is also modified to provide easier and spacious access for disabled person on a wheelchair.

2. Kneeling system

With this system the van actually lower its self closer to the ground ( using air suspension ) for easy loading. Air suspension is not standard a standard feature in most vans so the original suspension must be modified for this system. With a kneeling system a person using manual wheelchair can push their wheelchair a lot easier up the ramp. However, this system is prone to error so ask for this only if you really really need it.

3. Hand Controls

When a disabled person would like to drive the van then the van will need additional Hand Controls for easier riding. Since the feet won't be able to hit the brake and the accelerator then these two functions will be handled by hand with the new hand controls.

4. ADA compliance

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides a design guide provides consisting key information about how to create accessible car and van spaces. When you purchase an ADA compliant van you can be sure it is of highest quality, contains the necessary accessories and follow the safety and accessibility standards.

5. Crash test

Converting a van is a big deal. Any kind of modification made to the car will have an effect to it's rigidity and safety. Even though the original van have passed a crash test the converted van may not have been tested before. Please, choose only from manufacturers / seller that has passed the crash test for their conversion units.

6. Post purchase resellers program

When you no longer need your accessible van you can take it back the dealer and they will either buy it back from you ( at a reduced price ) or sell it for you for a small fee.

7. NMEDA

NMEDA stands for National Equipment Mobility Dealers Association. It's job is to ensure quality and professionalism in the manufacturing and installation of safe and reliable mobility equipment in vehicles for drivers and passengers with disabilities.

That's it. I hope that your next visit to a wheelchair van dealer won't be such a confusing experience after reading this article.

1/15/2011

Signs That Your Car Needs A Tune-Up

Hard Starting: This is the most common form of car trouble. It's usually due to some unperformed maintenance. If the starter cranks the engine, the electrical system is probably okay. The culprit could be a starting sensor (on fuel injected models) or the choke mechanism (on engines with carburetors). Frequently, starting failure can be traced to an electronic component or a computer controlling the ignition system.

Knocking: The noise generally is heard when the engine is under load, such as when accelerating or climbing a hill. While it often may be caused by a thankful of interior gas, ignition knock frequently is a sign your engine needs attention. It also can be caused by a buildup of carbon inside the engine. Lake-model cars are equipped with a knock sensor which 'hears' the sound and makes corrective adjustments. But it cannot compensate for a severe malfunction, a condition that can affect engine performance and even damage the engine.

Stalling: This can be caused by incorrect speed adjustments, a malfunctioning sensor or switch, dirty fuel-system parts, worn spark plugs, or other engine deficiencies. Does it stall when hot? Cold? With air conditioning on? To make diagnosis easier, make note of when it happens and advise your technician.

Power Loss: How long since the fuel filter was changed? A dirty filter is a common cause of power loss. As noted under "poor gas mileage", there can be many causes of this condition, most of which can be located with a diagnostic procedure.

Poor Gas Mileage: By keeping a regular check of gas mileage (miles driven divided by gallons used); you can tell if your engine is losing efficiency. Increased gas consumption may be accompanied by other symptoms listed in this section. Note that poor gas mileage also may be due to: under inflated tires, engine running too cold, transmission malfunction, dragging brakes, misaligned wheels.

Dieseling: This also is known as "after-run". The engine keeps chugging and coughing for several seconds after the ignition is shut off. Causes can range from inferior gas to excessive idle speed. Carbon in the combustion chamber also may cause dieseling.

Exhaust Odor: The smell of rotten eggs comes from the catalytic converter, part of your car's emissions-control system. The odor can be due to an engine problem or it can be a sign that your car's catalytic converter is malfunctioning.

Rough Running: A malfunction in either the fuel or ignition system can cause an engine to run rough. It also can be due to an internal engine condition, such as a bad valve or piston. Does it occur when idling? When accelerating? At all speeds? Your best bet: have a qualified technician perform diagnostic and tune-up services as needed.

1/13/2011

Freightliner Spinter; Work Vehicle

Freightliner is setting up its new Sprinter Van Dealership Network and has signed up 50 of its current Freightliner outlets to sell these new vans. You may have seen these new shaped work vans, Fed Ex has bought quite a few. Freightliner a DaimlerChrysler company is going after the already intense 450,000-unit a year Full Size Work Van Market. They will be competing with other market share winners like Ford, GM and Dodge their own van network.

They plan on setting up 150-160 dealers by years end and they are already well on their way of reaching and implementing that lofty strategic sales goal. Perhaps you may wish to buy a few as units for your small or medium sized business? The van claims oil changes every 10,000 miles and over 22 mpg with a GVW of over 15,000 lbs. Very impressive economy and excellent cost savings on preventative maintenance costs.

We will see if Freightliner can get itself out of the gutter as they have had layoffs and financial performance issues during the last recession with all the trade in short term leases. There are still some 42,000 used trucks rusting away in hibernation like many of the old airliners lined up in the desert. I talked to a route driver who drives a Freightliner Sprinter and he says; "the gas mileage is cool, awesome." He also said; "when you get on the pedal it really accelerates good," which makes him happy when he needs to get over a lane in heavy traffic. He said; "the turning radius needs to be better, but over all it is a great van." He drove for Fed Ex and said it is stable and no worries about top siding or rolling over like a Ford Explorer, He said it's payload could be better and he thought it was not as good as the Grumman Vans they drive, but preferred this Sprinter to it due to performance. He said it also had reasonable viability.

If you are looking for a work van, you might wish to really consider the new Freightliner Sprinter with its easy financing terms and excellent performance.

1/12/2011

Captains Chair For Sale - Sea-Faring Style For Land Lovers


Image : http://www.flickr.com


A captains chair for sale is a chance for you to own a piece of furniture with a sea-faring theme. The arm rests offer you plenty of horizontal support, and the backrest offers excellent vertical support. These chairs are quite often crafted from wood, and they can be utilized in all kinds of settings - from restaurants to dining rooms, to living room furniture, reception areas, and with desks, to make work stations.

If you are shopping for dining sets, you will sometimes see chairs at the table ends, with straight-backed chairs along the sides. These designate the head of the table. With special chairs, the chair's back support is along the same line as the vertical support from the arm rests.

Some more recent captains chair designs don't have the traditional vertical support in their arm rests and their back supports. Some of these arm chairs, with pieces of fabric between the supports, would more correctly be called directors chairs. There is no one set definition of either chair, so the styles and names can vary from one manufacturer to another. Unrelated to actual furnishings, a captains chair exercise is an exercise which increases your core strength by working the abdominal area.

Prices of these chairs may vary a great deal between different retailers, and the type of leather or black vinyl or fabric may affect the price, as well. There are differences also in the quality of workmanship between different manufacturers, but if you can afford it, you are better off looking at a more expensive chair for sale, if it is of a higher quality. Different woods play a role in prices, too. Vintage chairs may be found with lower prices, while antiques may fetch higher prices.

These chairs are fairly simple in their construction. They have been used in various settings for many years. The design is a sturdy one, mainly due to the secure vertical supports. If you are looking for older chairs, some may not have cushions or upholstery; these are more traditional chairs.

The Coleman company, who has been making outdoor supplies for years, makes a style that will fold. These are very handy for camping trips and cookouts. These chairs' backs are extra tall, to give you even more support than does the traditional design. The oversized seat makes it very easy to get comfortable, and the armrest and back have extra padding, for added comfort. The aluminum frame makes these chairs rustproof and easy to fold, for storage and camping.

Many outdoor-themed companies have built solid chairs since the beginning of the twentieth century. A variety of materials made the chairs popular with campers and travelers alike. An outdoor chair has comfort with no parallel, and is very comfortable after a long day fishing or hiking. The chairs specifically designed for outdoor use generally have sand-bar legs, which strengthen the chair for more stability, and these tend to work better on soft ground than does the original captains chair.

Tips on Driving a Van

There can be a big difference between driving a car and van. Vans, especially the likes of a Luton or even a transit are much higher and wider than an average car. It is important that when you get in the van and before you drive it, you familiarise yourself with where everything is, from the lights and indicators to the heating, hazard lights and stereo settings.

Visibility will probably be less than you are used to with the mirrors so make sure you get your seat in a comfortable and safe position to drive in and then arrange your wing mirrors and rear view mirror to the optimum visibility. One of the benefits of driving a van is that you are much higher than in a car so your natural visibility will be increased.

Because a van is higher and wider, it generally means that it is heavier too, even without a load. This means that braking distances are increased greatly so ensure that you allow for this when driving. Keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead will help. When you have a fully loaded van, it will weigh even more so driving slower and with increased caution is a must. Also, because of the height there will be restrictions when it comes to certain car parks and even low bridges. It is important that you check the height of your van so you know what your limitations are prior to travelling. Vans will have different speed limits which you need to obey so it is worthwhile looking these up in the Highway Code.

One of the biggest challenges of driving a van can often be the parking. Most people dread the idea of having to park one on the street, either parallel or reversing. This is when using your mirrors is pivotal; you will get to see the corners of the van this way which should help you when doing any manoeuvre. Remember to take your time and you can always stop and ask someone to help guide you in a space if you are having that much trouble.

1/07/2011

Carpet Cleaning Vans - Choosing the Right Cargo Van

A reliable, dependable cargo van is a key component for a successful carpet cleaning business. It needs to be spacious enough to haul all the necessary equipment and sturdy enough to handle the weight. Let's take a look at three of the most popular cargo vans and identify their strengths and weaknesses.

The GMC Savana is from the same family as the Chevrolet Express van. This is a sturdy vehicle that has been serving the business community for years. The heavy-duty version is the one ton (3500) configuration that can come in an extended-wheelbase version (155-inch). It is powered by a 6.0-liter V8 that generates 300 hp and comes with a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Ford Econoline or E-Series cargo vans are similar workhorse type vehicles. The heavy-duty version is the E-350 model with a 5.4 liter V8 that produces 225 hp. Upgrades are available to a 6.8 liter with 305 hp or a 6.0 liter Power Stroke turbo diesel the produces 235 hp. It sits atop a 138 in. wheelbase and also sports a four-speed automatic transmission.

The Dodge Sprinter is a commercial van produced by Daimler-Chrysler (now just Daimler). Redesigned in 2007, the new Sprinter features a more spacious body with more cargo space thanks to an optional 170 in. wheelbase and extended roof. The heavy-duty version is the 3500 sporting a 3.0 liter turbo diesel producing 154 hp. This is the only engine option.

The most significant differences between these three vans is the amount of cargo space and powertrain options. The Sprinter's optional 170 inch wheelbase is longer than anything Ford or GMC can offer. It also has the unique feature of offering different roof heights up to 7 feet vs. the standard 4.5 foot ceiling in the other vans. On the downside, its the most expensive of the three and there are no engine upgrades if you need to do a lot heavy hauling.

So there are your choices. The Ford E-Series and GMC Savana vans are powerful, dependable and readily available both new and used. The new Dodge Sprinter is more spacious and comfortable but has fewer used offerings and costs more than GMC or Ford.

Any of these vans will get the job done but it's a good idea to do as much research as possible to find the best fit for your business.

1/06/2011

Sprinter RV Conversions - Build Your Own Mercedes Sprinter Camper Van

For the last several decades in North America, there were only two choices for a small camper van:

A Volkswagen camper van with a tiny 1.6 liter engine
A Ford, Dodge or Chevy van with a huge 360 cubic inch (5.7 liter) V8 engine

The first choice was very popular and ultra-fashionable (and still is in some circles!), but had significant problems: it was small and underpowered, and broke down often. The domestic vans were much more reliable, had more space and more power, but as the price of gas kept increasing, their poor fuel efficiency became a problem, especially for long road trips.

In 1995, the Volkswagen Eurovan camper van appeared. It was a modern, updated version of the original VW camper van, with much better-designed interior fittings, more space and more engine power. However, just like the older VW camper vans, it was plagued with mechanical problems, most of which didn't seem to be worked out until the last few years the model was available in North America, 2002 and 2003. The 2002 and 2003 VW Eurovan camper vans were good camper vans, but now in 2010, low-mileage examples of this van are rare and expensive, some selling for US$40,000, more expensive than their original price!

In 2002, an excellent new base vehicle appeared for camper van conversions. The Mercedes Sprinter van was imported from Germany, and sold under several brands: Freightliner, Dodge and now (in 2010) back to Mercedes badging. The Mercedes Sprinter is tall, roomy and light (especially compared to the typical domestic North American vans), and over the years has been offered with different fuel-efficient and powerful gasoline and diesel engines, including a 2.7-liter 5-cylinder turbodiesel and a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel. A basic Mercedes Sprinter cargo van can be customized into a great Sprinter camper van or Sprinter RV conversion.

In 2010, North American Mercedes Sprinters are offered in passenger van and cargo van versions, and in two sizes, a 144-inch wheelbase and a longer 170-inch wheel base, sometimes known as the regular-body (RB) and extended-body (EB). Older-generation vans (2002-2006) were also known as "T1N-style" vans, the newer-generation vans (2007 and later models) are also known as "NCV3-style" vans. There are also two roof styles for the Mercedes Sprinter:

"regular" roof, with an interior height of 65 inches
"high" roof, with an interior height of 76.4 inches

For some past model years, there was an ultra-tall "Mega" roof, the tallest roof option - this roof style was unsuitable for RV conversion because it was lower-strength fiberglass.

Why Choose a Mercedes Sprinter?

The Mercedes Sprinter cargo van has a number of great advantages which make it an excellent choice for converting into a Sprinter RV conversion / Sprinter camper van:

Fuel-efficiency - 2009 Mercedes Sprinters with the OEM642 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine rated at 181 bhp were estimated to get 18-22 miles per gallon. Bluetec Euro5 turbodiesel engines available on 2010 models may get even better gas mileage.
Power - With its turbodiesel engine, the Mercedes Sprinter has a very flat torque curve, and it has much greater torque than many similar-sized gasoline engines up until around 70mph. This is especially important for many higher-altitude regions of North America, where normally-aspirated engines lose up to 15% of their power at high altitudes.
Mercedes quality - Because it is built by Mercedes, a distinguished auto manufacturer known worldwide, it has proven to be very reliable mechanically, especially in comparison to its Volkswagen counterparts
Tall, roomy chassis - The tall, roomy chassis affords a significant amount of space for the usual camper van features - the interior is mostly 68 inches wide.
One million Mercedes built - There are now many, many Mercedes Sprinters on the road: Mercedes estimates over one million have now been built worldwide. The current Mercedes Sprinter van is the product of fifteen years of continuous refinement.

Why Build Your Own Sprinter RV Conversion?

There are now several excellent small RV conversions - class "B" conversions, in comparison to larger class "A" or class "C" models - in mass production based on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis, both 144-inch and 170-inch. In particular:

RoadTrek offers the SS Agile camper van on the 144-inch chassis
Airstream offers the Airstream Interstate 3500, based on the 170-inch chassis
Pleasure-Way offers the Ascent TS, based on the 144-inch chassis

These are excellent small motorhomes, and are designed with every luxury you might expect in a larger RV. However, there are some drawbacks to these conversions, at least in comparison to the older generations of small campervans:

Expensive - These conversions are very expensive, typically US$100,000 - $130,000
Not good for off-road use - These conversions are two-wheel-drive, equipped with running boards, and heavy, which makes them poor choices for off-road or even off-pavement use
Typically sleep 2 - These conversions typically only sleep two, which leaves a family of four looking for options on how to add two more sleeping berths

There's another option - build your own custom Sprinter RV conversion. With some hard work and ingenuity, you can turn a new or used Mercedes Sprinter cargo van into a great Sprinter camper van or small Sprinter RV for less than half of the cost of one of these expensive mass-market conversions. And you'll be able to say you built it yourself!

1/04/2011

Dodge Sprinter Makes a Great Shuttle Vehicle

The Dodge Sprinter commercial van can be used in many ways, but some argue that it is best utilized as a roomy shuttle vehicle for trips to the airport, and extended road trips with lots of people. And the Sprinter does offer many great features that easily lend itself to a luxurious and spacious ride to that far off destination. Here's what you can expect from this top-rated van:

Lots of Passenger Elbow Room
Many mini-vans and sport utility vehicles claim to have room for seven people, but in reality once all the luggage and other travel gear is stuffed inside there is scarcely room for more than a few passengers to fit themselves into the remaining open spaces.

The Dodge Sprinter, however, is big! Really, really big! It can carry a total of 12 people plus lots and lots of luggage in the back, eliminating the need to store it all inconveniently at your feet. Each passenger gets his own full seat with a three-point seat belt and an adjustable headrest. And if you have babies on board - you're in luck! Each seat is equipped with child car seat fastening latches.

And for those passengers fortunate enough to snag one of the front seats, the amenities are even better. They get to customize the suspension of their seats as well as the desired height. You won't find that in most minivans and SUVs!
No Bending and Ducking

The Sprinter is one of the tallest passenger vehicles on the market today and can comfortably allow people up to 6'3" to walk upright through the doors and into the cabin as they maneuver gracefully to their seats. The extra high roof does come at an additional cost to the price tag, but the ease of getting in and out is definitely worth the expense.

Easy Loading and Unloading
Beyond an easy step into and out of the van, the Sprinter also offers a very manageable way to pack up and unload baggage and cargo with split rear doors that provide a wide loading angle. This makes it easier to reach the sides of the van and fit all the cargo into the available storage space, utilizing it in the most effective manner. And as an added safety feature, the doors are held open by magnetic couplings, meaning you don't have to fear death by swinging doors during particularly windy days.

Great Gas Mileage
The Dodge Sprinter delivers great fuel economy, a surprisingly good feature considering the size of the van and the power of the engine. Most Sprinters get somewhere in the range of 25 miles to the gallon - a much better rate than any other vehicle in its class. In today's lackluster economy that's a fact that is hard to overlook.

And just in case you are not completely convinced yet, here is how the London Free Press rated the Dodge Sprinter: It gave the Sprinter a 3.5 out of 5 for Styling and Economy, a 4.5 out of 5 for Comfort, and a 5.0 for its Money Value. This vehicle consistently scores these high marks with customers and testers. For all these reasons and more, the Dodge Sprinter would make an excellent choice for your next shuttle van purchase.

1/03/2011

2007 Hyundai Entourage - The Minivan Wars Heat Up

It was only a matter of time before they entered the minivan fray and after several false starts the on again and off again Hyundai minivan appears to be on once again. Hyundai is targeting a market it has long sidestepped and it appears that a long wheelbase version of the Kia Sedona will soon be sold in the US as a Hyundai Entourage. The minivan wars are heating up again even as one competitor exits the market and another also gives serious consideration to abandoning the minivan segment. Is there an Entourage in your future? Read on for all the details and then decide.

Two decades ago, Hyundai entered the North American market with its $3600 Excel Pony. This cheaply priced, cheaply built model set the tone for the new importer and it wasn't a good one at that. Low quality went arm and arm with the low price, but consumers still bought Hyundais anyway as a new Excel compared favorably with prices for late model used cars of that era. Many owners shrugged off the cheap plastics and quality problems, citing that the Pony gave them something they never had before: a brand new car.

Eventually, Hyundai expanded its line up and improved its quality levels. An industry best warranty plan was crafted and put in place which helped to underscore that Hyundai was serious about building quality vehicles and would stand behind their many products. Mysteriously, a minivan was not part of the line up even as its Kia subsidiary successfully introduced the Sedona and as demand for minivans remained strong.

Rumors of a Hyundai minivan have been circulating for several years. Even previous company press releases hinted at the possibility, but no official announcement had been forthcoming. Finally, late in 2005, Hyundai signaled that they would go ahead and produce a minivan based on the stretched wheelbase version of the Kia Sedona. No short wheelbase van is planned, so the Entourage will clearly target a slightly higher and more lucrative end of the minivan market.

With a 3.8L V6 engine, power sliding doors, ABS, traction control, six airbags, and triple zone air conditioning, the Entourage will be equipped to compete directly against four popular models: the Dodge Caravan, Chrysler Town & Country, Honda Odyssey, and the Toyota Sienna. Based on the Sedona, Hyundai does have its work cut out for itself as the Sedona has been below average in quality and reliability.

To Hyundai's advantage will be its competitive pricing and with Ford out of the market and General Motors considering doing the same, Hyundai's focus will be set squarely on competing against the two Chrysler products as well as the pricey Honda and Sienna models. While Chrysler is currently the sales leader in this segment, a smartly optioned Entourage will probably grab sales from fully equipped versions of each model. This will not happen if quality levels do not improve.

Knowing the competitiveness of this Korean automaker, you can expect that the Entourage will present a strong battle once quality issues have been overcome. Should that happen, you can expect that the Hyundai Entourage and Kia Sedona will grab more sales and become a force to be reckoned with. The consumer may be the biggest winner as prices are likely to hold or even come down in the face of strong competition.

1/02/2011

Using the Craigslist Website to Buy Conversion Vans

If you are looking for conversion vans, then you should go to a website such as eBay or Craigslist. These websites are great for purchasing used vans because there are not that many car dealerships that sell used conversion vans. It seems like the majority of these types of cars that are currently being sold on the market are sold by the original owners, or straight from the dealership. However, your options become very slim when it comes to choosing a reliable automobile.

A converted van is great vehicle to purchase because they can be used in areas where there are many outdoor activities. Coastal areas such as North Carolina, offer great camping and hiking activities and a van is great for camping and going to the beach. The best way to enjoy the beach is by driving your used van and packing all sorts of camping supplies and beach accessories. Also, converted vans can be used as camping vehicles and some of these camper-vans are actually made to transform into a 3 to 4 person sleeper camper.

Regardless of what you are planning on using the vehicle for, the one thing that is certain is that you must use Craigslist in order to get the best deals on these types of conversion-vans. As we speak, there are hundreds of listings for on Craiglist from people who want to get rid of their used automobile. Some of these people are so strapped for cash that they will sell their auto for much less than the Kelly Blue Book price. Remember that using this website is free and it should be your first stop when trying to get a conversion van for sale by the owner.