Date:         Sat, 14 May 2022 01:05:50 +0000
Reply-To:     Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Subject:      Re: Vanagon Alternative...just thinking
In-Reply-To:  <1584207948.1765700.1652476382554@mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

 Another perspective....Suppose you drive your Vanagon across the United States (like I regularly do).  Suppose you have a mechanical issue that needs immediate attention.  Basically, you somehow manage to find an auto mechanic shop and get there.  Oh....
Now the fun begins!  Nope....no parts.  Yep...we can get it in 5 days.  You flitter around on computer on all the usual sites, and somehow get the part shipped to your motel.  (Believe me, I have done this, in Grand Junction Colorado.)  If lucky.
Next...the removal and install of new part.  Meanwhile....well, you know the rest of the story.
Vanagons are just exquisite!  Repairing them is not.  Especially when "on the road".  Just sayin'.

    On Friday, May 13, 2022, 02:13:02 PM PDT, 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.