It is so great to witness a younger person (I’m 74 so most folks are younger) who is so sensible and takes lower risk choices. Road trips can be unpredictable. 🦌💌❤️🚙

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

Deerheart Studio Arts how is importing a 25 year old foreign vehicle a sensible and low risk choice?

@jenniferrae6646

3 жыл бұрын

@@CainBuckler they may be foreign, but they are better built and more reliable, even at that age than most there. Toyota is at the top of the list no matter what model. They are the best selling vehicle in almost the whole of the western world. They are all over my country. Young overseas travelers know this and buy them to convert to travel around while here. I would choose Toyota over any other. They are more expensive for good reason.

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

Jennifer Rae the us is different. The parts need to be shipped from halfway across the world and most mechanics won’t touch them. Not to mention the rusty holes through the frame that this specific van has

From the day you converted your Honda Element, you never followed a typical path. I'm excited to see this new road you are on.

@bypinkerton892

3 жыл бұрын

You may be right/ so I hope he pays less then it sounds like/ so he can buy parts and tools/ I wish them well

There are thousands of generic van life videos on KZread already. Not to say that they aren't good, but you'll be one of the few doing it from a JDM and that's pretty cool man.

hello there, I own a '93 Toyota Townace/liteace camper 4WD (purpose build), and currently on my way from London (UK) to Tokyo (Japan), so I'm basically driving it back. It's a Japanese import, registered in the UK, has a 2C diesel engine. And so far (2 years) it's the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned. The 2C diesel engine is still available brand new from factory, also it was used in tons of other models, including normal passenger cars. I've done a full service including timing belt change, water pump, all filters etc. and parts were widely available. Having the wheel on the other side won't be an issue really either, it'll take you 1-2 days tops to get used to it. The only thing to note about mine that it's really slow, 45-50mph cruise. Mine has only covered 92k miles (10k by me), but it's nearly 30 years old, and everything works just fine, including the 4x4 drive system. it never skipped a beat (and by this I mean no issues at all, not just no big issues, but absolutely nada, not a single problem in the past 2 years). If I'm being the luckiest person on the planet, or these things were built to last, I dunno but I feel like I'm going to keep this van for a long long time. Good luck with your search and purchase!

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

adamvok you are also based in the UK with less restrictive import laws. You also have only put 10k miles on it in 2 years. The US is a very different market parts and mechanics are much less accessible

@Theadamvok

3 жыл бұрын

@@CainBuckler yeah all good points really. I bought mine for only 9k USD, so price was for me that was a no brainer. Also true that there were more Toyota models sold back then in the EU with matching parts. (I'm thinking of the corolla, carina e, Hiace etc. small diesels), so these matching parts are easily available here, and probably not so easily over there. On the other hand, OEM parts can be still ordered (from Japan and UAE mostly, delivery is relatively fast), almost everything is still available, not cheap but there. Just one last "plus" point to mention and I shut up... these van or more like trucks (mine at least) don't have a can-bus system, nor computers, etc. (they do have sensors for oil, coolant, filters, brake and stuff, but that's about it. ), they're really simple, so mechanics might not be that much accessible in the USA, but if you find one, he/she most likely will be able to fix the problem. (if anyone in need of a Toyota 2C diesel engine repair manual let me know I'm happy to share it )

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

adamvok I’m not arguing that they arent good vehicles and cant be worked on. What i am saying is if I was in rural Kentucky needing a timing cover gasket for a foreign vehicle I would be stuck for at least 1 -2 weeks. DHL is helpful for parts but does take a week to get to you. I’m not sure I’d want to take the risk doing the repair myself in a rural area with the nearest mechanic that will even touch my vehicle is over 100 miles away. JDM makes sense for a secondary leisure purpose, but not something to live in and stake your livelihood on- at least here in the states.

@veganpotterthevegan

3 жыл бұрын

2 years? Do your cars normally break down after 2 years of ownership? If I buy a used car that needs a lot of repairs within 2 years, I made a mistake, or purposefully bought a fixer-upper

@Theadamvok

3 жыл бұрын

@@veganpotterthevegan many of my friends are having issues with brand new vehicles, yes. Using a 27 years old van for 2 years and not having a single issue means something about expected future reliability I think.

Hi, I live in Nashua and go to the DQ across the street from where you looked at the 4x4 Van. I notice since you have put the dealer of the vans on youtube he has increase the inventory of the imported Japanese 4x4. Rick in Nashua

I was with you with the Honda Element just as I was with the NV200. It’s safe to say regardless the vehicle and the road you drive on, we are with you every step of the way and I can only speak for myself but I imagine your next chapter will be even better than the past two. Glad to be apart of your KZread family and am happy to join in for the ride, Nate!

I think your making a GREAT decision. You've obviously done your research and you know what works for you better than anyone else. I love watching the changes in both your living situation and your personal life. Continue on with your journey, this is just another chapter.

If you buy a Japanese van and need parts i can send then to you from Australia. I have a workshop here with access to most parts for Toyota and Mitsubishi 👍

@cybersecretary

3 жыл бұрын

Australia has great vans!

@jenniferrae6646

3 жыл бұрын

Same in NZ. Everywhere here and there's a reason for that. Many actually!

@caliwooddetail

3 жыл бұрын

Im interested. Do you guys have 1996 Toyota Granvias?

@cjm321

2 жыл бұрын

Hey I have a 92 town ace and would love your info! I will need parts some day!

I've watched you for 4-years now and that was one of the most informative videos. You made me want to reconsider those JDMs! Touching piece at the end, too! Good luck!

Still loving our little NV200. Can really take a beating with no issues at all.

A lot of great memories in that van. Its kind of an old reliable friend. However a new phase for you and Shannon. Keep moving forward Nate , you are living large brother !

Life is an adventure with many changes. I'm sure that things will work out for you and Shannon. I have a lot of faith in the both of you. Take care.

I for one am super excited to see what your next rig is like! So glad you aren't doing a generic sprinter build or some other "safe" option. This is what van life is all about! Excited for the next chapter in your adventure!

Oh darn, made me cry with the memorabilia footage. Looking forward to the next vibe

Here in the UK JDM vans need to be 10 yrs old for import rules. Mine was imported at 13 yrs old with only 50,000 miles on the clock. She was converted from a people carrier to a campervan by the importer/converter who arranged the UK registration. All we had to do was chose layout, hitop, fabrics etc. She's now 23 yrs old with many more miles on the clock and no breakdowns. My local garage services her with no problem. She's just had her annual vehicle inspection(MOT) , no problems, just a couple of advisories by way of normal maintenance which I'll have done as preventative work now. She cost me half of what a comparative camper would have. She's very easy to drive with auto transmission and a 2.7 litre petrol engine, which cruises easily at 80/85 mph on the german autobahns. We don't usually stealth camp as we enjoy electic hook-up, flush toilets and good hot showers, but we have done basic camping at a couple of festivals. So do your research and don't be swayed too much by the "nay sayers"!

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

You are based in the UK, with less restrictive import laws. The US market is very different and there are far less mechanic here that work on these vehicles.

Awesome Nate! I remember we talked about hi-ace and delicas when we hung out in SF. I still for sure have my eye on them too for a lot of the same reasons. Excited for you to make the move!

I have been following you since you first began your trip in your element and I was very close to contacting you to buy your van but I’m months away from being prepared to do that so that saddens me. I’m happy to see you with Shannon you make a great couple and I continue to follow you on your journeys no matter what they are wishing you only the best.

Enjoyed the longer video, i know it takes more work on your end but just wanted you to know its appreciated.

aww, I love how you shared memories of the van. Best of luck to your new adventure!

Bittersweet and exciting at the same time!! I look forward to seeing your continuing journey! 👍🏽

I lived on Okinawa for 3 years where the steering wheel is on the opposite side. Be mindful of going into corners, that is the hardest adjustment to make. The other tricky part is getting used to new blind spots. I can't wait to see your next van.

My wife and I bought a 1994 Delica L400 from an importer in richmond a few months back. It's been an awesome experience. We've put thousands of trouble free miles on it without issue. Although it is due for maintenance it has been flawless so far. Have fun and we're looking forward to future videos on the JDM van. Don't let the other comments discourage you! As you said, it's part of the adventure! Be sure to look for rust! Edit: we've got progressive. It's cheaper to insure than our Prius is on the same plan with the same coverage.

@stevejeffrey11

3 жыл бұрын

are they good on gas too? I see lots of Delicas driving around BC

@wallinkevin

3 жыл бұрын

@@stevejeffrey11 Mine averages in the low 20 MPG range. Which isn't that great considering how slow it is. I have a gas V6 model. My 4runner would get slightly worse but felt like it had twice the power.

@stevejeffrey11

3 жыл бұрын

@@wallinkevin damn that is good though, my '80 G20 got around 8-10mpg and have a fuel injected one now that is 13-16 ish

@wallinkevin

3 жыл бұрын

@@stevejeffrey11 Ouch! That hurts! Haha the G20 has much more space though I'm sure.

@stevejeffrey11

3 жыл бұрын

@@wallinkevin ​ kzread.info/dash/bejne/dpaGssuon7K2XaQ.html&ab_channel=StevenRathwell That's the old van, now have another high-top 1989 G20 re did the interior - actually gets decent mileage on the highway going about 80km/h yes tons of room, overhead loft, easy and cheap to fix & unbelievably reliable when traveling/living in it...just pain at the pump! haha people leave notes on my windshield wanting to buy it...

I don't think you're making a huge mistake at all. You both are pretty intelligent people and sound like you've done your research and will continue to do your research. Glad you found somebody who enjoys the same type of lifestyle as you. I see nothing but great things for you two and this channel. Can't wait to see where the road takes you!!🍻

@jdmcarandmotorcycle

3 жыл бұрын

It is not mistake!! It is best what you cane do in your life!!!!

My parents had the mitsubishi delica minivan from the 80s. My parents got rid of it due to narrow wheelbase due to a risk of tipping over. I've driven the nv200 for work and currently own a Element thanks to you. I also own a T1N 118 diesel sprinter low roof.

Great Video as always! Big reason why I bought my own NV200, I will be keeping mine, bout to get it a 2 1/2" lift for Xmas

Wow! Congratulations. Your buyer got a good vehicle so that's great for them. Now here's to you and Shannon finding the right one for you to share.

Bye NV200 lots of good memories... bittersweet but onto bigger and better things, Nate.

Just remember why you bought the element Nate. The ease of repairs when things break. I hope the JDM RV will have easy to find parts. Good luck brother!!!

This is exciting Nate. I think you’ll do well with your import van. You’re pretty mechanically handy. I’m looking forward to the new chapter in your Book of Van Life. Stay safe out there 😃

Good luck on the next purchase exciting adventures ahead

ending was so beautiful i almost cried.

Just because something is neat doesn't mean it will work well. Think well before you decide! Remember these are engineered for small people. I'm a mechanic and tool maker. Your stepping on the edge of crazy.

@dannymcnalley5657

3 жыл бұрын

Jdm Van's are goof machines! Pile of 25 year old junk.

@dannymcnalley5657

3 жыл бұрын

Nate is tiny little man, so he will fit just fine!

@rayfletcher3683

3 жыл бұрын

@@dannymcnalley5657 They aren’t everybody’s cup of tea but they are certainly not a piece of junk! I own a Delica turbo diesel and it’s the best of road 4c4 I’ve owned and quite good on highway.🇨🇦

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

Ray Fletcher But you own another car though you daily drive right?

@RedTed1958

3 жыл бұрын

@@dannymcnalley5657 Power is important to get out of the way on interstates as well. Sorry I'm not giving up my V8.

Smart move leaving the "South Dakota" rouse behind. Having a "Permanent" Address in Florida is perfect. You still don't have to pay State Income taxes and you no longer have to explain that you're not actually a resident of SD.

Hell ya man, welcome to the JDM community. Along with a couple of imported sports cars I also just landed a Delica L400 Space Gear that I’ll be using for a solo overland camper rig for life out here in Colorado, I’d love to see ya out here! With all due respect to the folks here that are unfamiliar with the way, you have made a great call. The 1KZ is a super stout engine. You will want to open up its exhaust and give it a little more boost, this will prevent exhaust from being bottled up in the exhaust manifold and keeping exhaust gas temps down. Get that taken care of and you’re good for the next 500k miles. Aside from that, parts availability is strong and most independent shops have no problem working on them as long as you can provide them parts and specs and many techs are excited to work on something different than usual! Excited to see how you go on this journey, I’ll be watching, and if you need any help on parts or resources feel free to DM me, I’m heavily involved in the US JDM car and van community.

@christianbale499

2 жыл бұрын

hey man how do i get in contact with you about van parts and overall help with finding a van?

The problem is when you break down in the middle of nowhere and can't get parts.

It will definitely add a uniqueness to your channel. Have fun!

I have enjoyed your vids and finally got my 95 Toyota HiAce Van. I got the rare Extended and High roof 8.7” high, fully loaded. Started right up and runs and idles like a Toyota 👍 Breakdown 1) $11,000 2)Clearing agent plus taxes $900 3) State Farm Ins. $600/yr. 4)DMV Hawaii reg. $516 5)Shipping $2000 I went through a reliable Japanese web site. Very easy process for a 1st time importing

The cool factor is absolutely a good pro for the list :) I drove my aunt's little sports car with the European package on a road trip in 1992. Stopped at a gas station somewhere in WV and the gas station attendant said, "you just got out of that car on the wrong side!" haha He was an older guy, just being a comedian, so it was all in fun. I look forward to seeing many of the future adventures of Nate and Shannon :)

Good luck!! Can't wait to see it!

On to your next van! Look forward to it and your new adventures!

It's an end of an era. On to bigger and better things. Also, you shouldn't rule out traveling to Japan! It's beautiful and refreshingly different in so many positive ways. Might I suggest visiting the island of Okinawa and some of the big cities, like Tokyo and Osaka? As always, thanks for the video Nate. Cheers.

I’m excited to see what comes next! I think the naysayers don’t have a concept of how some of these JDM’s (Toyota in particular) can go 500k. In fact an overland record-holder chose a hiace to travel around the world, including through some of the most rugged and remote regions there are. Compare the cost of upkeep on this versus crazy expensive Sprinter or VW Synchro repairs/maintenance, and I think you’ll be far ahead of the alternatives! Way to go for thinking outside of the box!

You're the reason why i got an NV 200 conversion van!

Bought a 93 Nissan Cedric about a year ago. It's been great and parts availability was always one of my main concerns but I would definitely recommend joining a group or forum for that specific vehicle. For the Cedric, people have found parts that were used on vehicles sold here that work or even some conversions that change it to something that was used here. I recently converted my front suspension to use a 240sx suspension so now there's more easily available parts for it.

Always thought you guys would look good in a cheap reliable truck and truck camper. But happy that you guys are excited. Glad you are paying cash

I drive 88 Toyota 4x4 van made into a custom pop up , go for it , there will be down time waiting for parts , very easy to work on , except for under the the dash master cylinder stuff , other than that there’s a reason they are used as taxi cabs in every 3rd world country with 300,000 plus miles on them , they last ! And more than capable off road 👍🏼

I had a 1985 Toyota pickup with a 4cyl diesel. Sold it in 2000 because I could keep up with the rust. The new owner pulled the engine which now runs a saw mill. A very impressive engine to which I wish it could still be bought in Canada.

Seriously what's the difference than paying for 25 yr old JDM versus a 98 or 99 Pleasure way.. at 25,000 to 30,000 None....oh yeah Those Toyota engines are practically bulletproof , the 4×4 , fuel savings .the fact that Japanese are masters at organizing/building small spaces. Also they are meticulous about taking care of their equipment.. So yes I would definitely take One of them over a Pleasure way the same year In a heart beat!

The light reflections inside your van were glorious! ✨🌈 ☄️

The very best of luck to you and Shannon on your new adventure mobile

One door closes, another opens. Onto the next gig of the journey!

It's always sad to say goodbye to a trusted vehicle, but oh please, you felt the same way when the Element left, didn't ya? Cars are cares...they come, they go. Eventually you'll have to get rid of whatever new van you get. So don't get *too* attached, is what I'm saying. But have fun! Thanks for taking us along on the ride. Your videos are always interesting and fun (and super well-produced!). Rock on, man.

woooowh!? thought I saw a title that said “huge mistake” what a tease! ha, gotta wait till next vid

The answer to your thumbnail question? Yes.

I think you got a keeper in Shannon! Best wishes!

Steering wheel on the wrong side 😂😂 you mean the right side lol All the best, looking forward to seeing your adventures in your new van 👍

You are right bro, me in Malaysia also believe in JDM vehicle...especially back in 90's to 2000...they are very reliable and less mantainence except to be coutious on the regular oil change...the rest...they are ready to serve you by thousand and thousand of miles...Regards from Malaysia...🇲🇾

@shinobusensui9395

Жыл бұрын

Are there any rules to import JDM to Malaysia? Like 25yrs?

lol, I bought several Classic Minis from the UK. Some off Ebay UK directly. Didn't find it particularly difficult. RORO from Southhampton to JAX. Trailered home to Brandon. FHP inspection. UK documents with import documents gets you a FL Title Loved the RHD. The HIACE 4x4 would be awesome. But, I'll stick with my Class B+.

Love old rvs and JDM stuff, this is both!

Best of luck to you!

They are compact but in the front end accident you will have severe leg injuries. There is a reason the cab over design is not popular.

@veganpotterthevegan

3 жыл бұрын

No vans from this era are particularly good. That said, Modern vans with this setup don't actually do that poorly

@jdmcarandmotorcycle

3 жыл бұрын

Motorcyckes mire dangerous lol

@veganpotterthevegan

3 жыл бұрын

@@jdmcarandmotorcycle Anyone have a motorcycle camper?

@helmetboy431

2 ай бұрын

@@veganpotterthevegan people travel on motorcycles

@helmetboy431

2 ай бұрын

same with vw van too

No fate channel checking in and excited for you

I watch a channel that works on importing these. I agree they are cool and super efficient with sturdy old engines. I will say that the one thing that would bug me is that many more Japanese smoke and a lot of them have smoke and cigarette damage. Maybe it is something to watch out for

Thanks for the great video.

I looked at the website and they don't look very safe. It looks like the steering wheel is just siting on the front axel.

If you get one of those JDM vans, you can kiss stealth camping goodbye. That thing stands out like a green hat with an orange bill.

@theodyssey5060

3 жыл бұрын

I think Nate mentioned in previous videos that he plans on being in more rural areas so it may not matter that much. But yes being in an urban area with a JDM van will definitely stick out like a sore thumb.

@swashfrogsailor

3 жыл бұрын

I consider any vehicle with tinted windows and a roof rack as a “stealth” camper, particularly vans. “Stealth”, in my opinion, has become laughable. It’s generally aspirational, but most folks tend towards the lazy/easy end of the continuum which may as well be international orange camouflage on squeaky bushings.

@debslifesimplified6406

3 жыл бұрын

@@theodyssey5060 They will really stand out in a rural community cause every one knows every one.

@anitasimmons3599

3 жыл бұрын

Put hay, you really are not stealth in a full sized van either. With your style of travel you should be fine. You are intelligent, resourceful, and handy. Enjoy the journey. Safe travels.

@jenniferrae6646

3 жыл бұрын

@@anitasimmons3599 exactly

Dude, that’s gonna be awesome!! 👌

Good for you guys , go for it.

I think you did the write thing and you both are trying to economize while living on the road. I'd keep at least $5k on the side for repairs in case it needs engine or transmission work besides regular wear and tear thing. To check and if need replace all fluids, hoses, belts, filters, break pads, break shoes, rotors, drums, wheel cylinders, break lines and tires. Exhaust? Make sure the frame is not rusted bad or rusted out!

Driving a vehicle with the driver’s seat on the opposite side can present some safety challenges you need to be aware of. When driving on a two lane road you will have a difficult time passing because it will be difficult or impossible to see if the lane of opposing traffic is clear. With a “normal” vehicle the driver is sitting next to the center line and it is much easier to see if there is enough room to safely pass the vehicle in front of you. So be extra careful when considering to pass on a two lane road.

@tabasco260

3 жыл бұрын

I don't really see that thing passing a lot of vehicles tbh

It looks like a awesomely fun camper. 👍

Ford e350 plus 4x4 conversion cost still puts you in that ballpark price range BUT they are getting harder to find.

I want to see a tour of these! Last 2 videos I watched and I still haven't seen it.

Toyota is well known to be reliable, the simple thing to do is take a course on the engine at least how to take of and fit some of the parts that mite go out, perhaps especially how to after say fitting a injector ,how to Bleed the system and get a manual.

On Nov 17 2020 I sold my BMW Motorcycle it was 130 HP K1200RS. I owned it for nine years and road it 40,000 miles. I can relate.

Here is a con to consider, RHode Island and Massachusets have been recalling titles on Kei vehicles, making them illegal on the road. I will wait a few years to see if this continues

I've seen your JDM camper sitting on the lot since I live pretty close to there. They currently (as I'm writing this) have another Toyota HiAce high top campervan, and a Nissan Atlas Camper

I bought a sanfu one time and I could not get parts. We rigged a set of points off of a chev luv and I sold it

My cousin bought one of those imported campers and had nothing but problems with it, finding parts for it was a big issue and very expensive and finding a shop to work on it was the other issue, I'm not trying to change your mind just giving food for thought. I don't know why you don't keeps Shannon's van, its already decked out for your needs......

@bypinkerton892

3 жыл бұрын

Nate said that Shannon owes a lot on the Sprinter and wants it sold to put that money into the house/ another comment suggested a Tacoma pick up camper/ a pop up would be fun for off roading

@scable-eq7bp

3 жыл бұрын

@@bypinkerton892 If it was my choice, I would of paid off the van before going in debt for a house in Florida, that she is going to use as rental property. Right the housing market and rental property in Florida is not very stable. Scary times we live in right now....

@bypinkerton892

3 жыл бұрын

I think it's a gamble for richer people/ as this will be THEIR HOUSE too/ where will they live when they have a breakdown/ he's dreaming like a 16yo/ not like a responsible partner

@bypinkerton892

3 жыл бұрын

It really may bring in more viewers to watch what happens with an unusual vehicle/ that may really be the plan/ so I hope they have fun

Dude, I got choked up when the van drove off.

Hope it works out well for you guys !

if your going with a overseas van stay with Toyota can't go wrong

@Knightfall23

3 жыл бұрын

Definitely Toyota Diesel low km you'll be set for life. Parts can easily be shipped just takes longer.

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

s.q if he gets in a fender bender though, sending body panels halfway around the world should be interesting...

@Knightfall23

3 жыл бұрын

@@CainBuckler nothing a little bondo can't fix

@CainBuckler

3 жыл бұрын

s.q lol for a small dent.

@jdmcarandmotorcycle

3 жыл бұрын

@@Knightfall23 absolutely

Going to reach out to them today.. You mentioned insurance, where did you get insurance, all i see is for collector car insurance and the flip side is financing..

If you are seeing the van already, you must have made the order weeks ago. Congrats on the new van. I think you are discounting some of those cons. Saying you’ll do all the repairs yourself is not really realistic when you dont know a whole bunch about engines and you’ll be relying on this vehicle for your livelihood. For example, I wouldn’t want to be broken down in rural kansas with winter coming waiting on parts to replace the timing cover gasket. You’d be taking the risk repairing it yourself when the nearest mechanic who will even touch it is 100 miles away. Also if you get in a fender bender, are you going to DHL a door panel half way across the world? Plus you didn’t mention the safety concerns of an older vehicle that doesnt even have airbags. You are going to do whatever regardless of what I post here. I still think an e150 hightop with 4x4 conversion is your best bet. Mistake or not, it should make for interesting content for your channel. Be safe, start studying Japanese engines and invest in AAA premium package!

Another con (#6?) is the lack of a diagnostic port. If something needs diagnosing you can’t roll into Autozone or O’Reilly’s and have them check the service code. Is this a big deal? Probably not.

Hi, do you think that you may want to beef up the suspension? Rick

Interesting information.

Respectful about your decision. Seems to me there are so many considerations and potential issues versus a Ram or Ford van. Could become a headache worst than servicing a MB van.

Good video 😀

Hmmm. Those JDMs are interesting... I think the 25 years old or older is the biggest con, tho I realize many owners of the big vehicles seem to be buying older. I wouldn't be able to learn all those mechanics but you are real handy with that!

Importer exporter reminded me of a Seinfeld episode. Stay stealthy.

@donsolaris8477

3 жыл бұрын

"Art Vandelay"

@edwardeighth1948

3 жыл бұрын

@@donsolaris8477 It was originally Cordalay and also originally The Seinfeld Chronicles 🤓

Were y’all in the ATX on 183 a while ago? I saw your emblem on a small NV200 van

Thanks for taking us along!

Happy you are continuing van life.

Just had to give up my van after 14.5 years of ownership. It sucks.

Will it be inconvenient to have the side entrance on the street?

I own a VW eurovan camper. Parts are getting hard to find plus the cost of repairs are super high. Just imagine buying a van from japan that was not sold in mass in the US!!! Brother, you are going have a hard time repairing and finding parts for that van. Worse decision ever.

@St.PatricksTrades2

3 жыл бұрын

You couldn’t be more wrong. The parts for all commonly imported Japanese vans are readily available and unlike a VW these are actually very reliable

Good info and then you said I could win my Dream Van in my color and my year omgosh my head about exploded 😂 , I could see myself driving it and thinking "WE" are the same age ,,,, me & Van both made in 1966!!💖💖☕✌️

Hi Mate, JDM vans are an excellent choice. There are some others... I would like to invite you to consider a VW product from that era. The Vanagon was a very popular model in North America, so one can find plenty of parts locally as well as Europe and South Africa. It was built from 1982 to 1991. They were built to be quite safe vehicle with an amazing frontal crash protecting design, much safer than the JDM vans. They were designed for taller people. The campers built by Westfalia are really well designed and very durable. The weak part is the underpowered engine, however, they can be swapped out for newer Subaru or Ford Bostig conversions. There even are people converting them to run on battery power. It is a vehicle with a cult following so there is a lot of support. There is forum 'The Samba'. Vendors such as Gowesty.com, CIP1.com can get you parts. They are really fun to drive! Then There is also the VW Eurovan T4, built between 1991 to 2003, it is also an excellent choice. One can get Franz at Dutch auto parts help you find a really good long wheel base syncro hightop with a powerful tdi engine. If you want a local Eurovan from 2001 to 2003 Cole Ford at Cavevan in Colorado could help you get it refurbished. The passenger vans from 01 to 03 are the best value, if you are redesigning the interior, One just has to be sure that the automatic transmission is healthy, these transmissions were only used in North America, and can be spendy to keep going. Everyone let me know what you think. Is VW or is JDM a good OPTION? As I said JDM vans are excellent, but some of the VW products are worth considering!

@bypinkerton892

3 жыл бұрын

I bought a VW Beetle and drove over a rock that was hidden in the rainy darkness/ I need a new transmission/ so it's sitting in my driveway/ I will never buy another non American car / repairs just cost too much

Unless you're just looking for used Hyundai started making camper vans I watched the video on them a couple weeks ago maybe just something you could check into