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Subject:Re: Vanagon Alternative...just thinking
From:Dan N
Date:Fri, 13 May 2022 14:44:00 -0700

Well Gil...

In the back of my mind, there's a plan to exit the Vanagon world...

The dream is (revised periodically) - a Toyota Landcruiser with a roof top
tent and a small trailer for all the gears. A G Wagon 500 would be nice but
too pricey ... :-)

On Fri, May 13, 2022 at 2:27 PM Gil Ngai <eyebawlgil@gmail.com> wrote:

> I have a similar Westy and I too frankly wonder why there isn't more
> discussion about this.
> Modern Toyota and Honda vans are incredible machines, so reliable and
> cheaper for entry in the long run.
> For sure an insane amount of work to convert, but we are all use to a lot
> of work on our rigs.
> So what's the reason not more people are dreaming like Richard??
>
> Gil Ngai
> '85 Westy 2.5EJ
> Calgary, AB
> •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
> *GIL NGAI* • *I TELL GOOD STORIES*
> *filmmaker • DP • **chief storyteller • instructor*
> * www.dayonemedia.ca <http://www.dayone-media.com/> *
>
>
> On Fri, May 13, 2022 at 3:18 PM Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Add a rooftop tent and you're good TO GO ....! ! !  :-)
> >
> > On Fri, May 13, 2022 at 2:13 PM Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@sbcglobal.net>
> > wrote:
> >
> > >  It's Friday, so OK to post something like this.  I have owned VW vans
> > > since 1974; current '85 is approaching 300,000 miles of fun.  Has a
> > recent
> > > Subie 2.2 motor conversion, a new rebuild of transmission, and soon
> will
> > > have new front suspension and new brakes all around.  So obviously, I
> am
> > > committed to this thing.
> > >
> > > Others have eyed my Vanagon with envy.  My tintop parks nicely in
> garage,
> > > gets 22 MPG, I smile everytime I drive, especially when I see
> reflection
> > in
> > > glass store front windows.
> > >
> > > So....Toyota Sienna.  About a 2005-2008.  Fits in garage.  Has A/C that
> > > works.  Drivetrain is exactly like my daily driver, a 2004 Toyota
> > > Highlander.  V-6 motor.  Robust.  Parts and service are available
> > > anywhere.  Price on San Diego Craigslist is typically around $6000 to
> > > $9000.  Plentiful.
> > >
> > > My idea would be to strip back interior.  Build my own bed and camper
> > > interior.  Screens on windows.  House Battery in that deep space in the
> > > back of Sienna.  Butane stove.  Ice chest.  Custom curtains.  All the
> > usual
> > > junk too.  Totally doable.  Great campervan for 2 people.
> > >
> > > Please don't hate me.....just thinking.
> > >
> >
>