Excellent post, Rob.  And for sure, if I get pissed off enough, I am going to buy me one of those Toyota Sierras.  I will strip it, build wonderful camping interior.  The motor and tranny will be strong; the A/C will work, also the radiator.  It readily fits into my small garage. It will climb mountains; it will be bug free and yet have superb camping ventilation.  It will have cooking facilities.  It will have a hot shower system.  It will have a giant bed.  Even room to entertain 4 people.  And...very important...if I have a breakdown, I can find parts in AnyTown USA.  I still love my Vanagon.....but if I get pissed off enough....hold on folks!

    On Tuesday, December 26, 2023 at 05:17:01 PM PST, Rob <vwrobb@gmail.com> wrote:  
 
 Not to say anything bad about the Vanagon...
http://thegroveguy.blogspot.com/2011/06/toyota-sienna-van-conversion.html

Rob
vwrobb@gmail.com

On Tue, Dec 26, 2023 at 7:31 PM Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@sbcglobal.net> wrote:
>
> My Vanagon is crumpled; I am hoping it will get fixed.  It's got a super duper Subie 2.2 motor, a new transmission, SS coolant pipes & new radiator.  It's got Garmin GPS; hidden fuel pump cutoff switch; all wheel bearings and brakes are top notch; oh yeah, cruise control.  And I've rigged up a plywood panel for 5000 BTU cooling in summer; and I've got a Mr Heater Buddy for heating in Winter.  And yes, it's a Tintop...with huge bed...the only way I roll.  Simple Butane one burner stove; plastic ice chest.  Laptop provides communication and entertainment.
>
> Years back, I posed the question?  What after Vanagon?
> The answer:  Toyota Sienna van.
>
> Why?  I own a 2004 Toyota Highlander, 152K miles, excellent.  The Toyota Camry and the Sienna and the Highlander all share essential components.  And they made millions of them.  Millions.
> For sure.....I am trying to get my Vanagon rig fixed.  After a T-Bone, it's been difficult.  But folks, always have Plan B.  And yes....I could nicely transform a Toyota Sienna Van into a very accomplished ride.  All it takes is some plywood, foam, fabric...  I know how to do this.  Last resort..preference is my Tintop Vanagon.