Live Feed - How to Find a Van! March 4, 2020
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- čas přidán 3. 03. 2020
- Today we are having a Live Feed just for those of you who need help deciding which van to buy, where to look and how to know if it is a good purchase. I will be live on Wednesday March 4, 2020! At 2 pm Pacific time!
My friend Cliff and I will be talking about how to purchase a van! Answering your questions such as: Where do I look online? What type of van should I buy? What should I look for when inspecting the van? And many other concerns!
Please post your most pressing questions about how to buy a van below! We will try to get to as many of these questions as we can during the live feed!
I hope to see you on the live chat.
Thank you all so much for being a part of this community!
I am glad you are here and appreciate your support!
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This video is incredibly valuable, as it is helpful for me in getting off to a solid start in my van dwelling search. I was scheduled to view a couple vans yesterday, but because of work was unable to do it. After watching your video, I realized that none of the vans I had in mind would qualify for the “sweet spot“ that you mentioned to look for in my search. I made a ton of notes, and now have a solid game plan to work from. Thank you so much for your diligence, commitment, and honesty in helping people make the best decisions they can when it comes to purchasing alternative places to live. This really was awesome!!
Update plz.
A lot of used car dealers don't want you to have it inspected. They claim their cars are fully inspected. They umbrella those deals under their "no-haggle" price schemes.
I LOVE living in conversion vans. They are set up nice already so I just use containers with tapestries over them. Already has insulation, carpeting, lights, and nice wood details. The windows have these top panels which I stuff my curtains into and need no rods or velcro to keep them up, and they also have blinds. I did take out the extra seats. You can use the fold out bed couch or take that out too which I recently did and put in a folding metal bed. All in all, a great way to start.
Regarding ambulances: Almost all viruses and bacteria die shortly after leaving the body. On surfaces, almost everything is dead within 4 days. In 30 days, virtually nothing will still be alive. That, coupled with a good cleaning will make it safe. Ambulances are well maintained but are often driven hard at least some of the time. Just food for thought.
Thank you Bob. You are teaching us to survive. I'm so grateful 🥰
Hello guys
I'm in a conversion van. 2004 but only has the electric lay down bed. Very solid built. Too many cup holders. It weighs over 7000 lbs empty. It's got 206,000 miles now. Started at 187,000 miles. Motor is 5.2. Gotta drive under 50mph otherwise it eats gas. Been in it now for 18 months. I'm 81, live out of it. Not very organized. I'm handicapped. It's better than living in hud housing with drug dealers. Lovr videos from Bob.
God bless you.🎉
I'm going to start out in my Nissan Cube, as small as it is, because it will give me the opportunity to travel (30 mpg) and save a lot of my social security check. If I can do that for at least a year I can afford a nice van.
Mary Olson I have a Cube too,and I love it! . I was thinking of living in mine too and tips?
@@brittneyprivette9313 maybe you could travel together and start a cube caravan!😊
Shirley Couch lol.That would be great.
Sweet would love to see end result...
Me too with my nissan sentra. I can save a lot for a used van.
Meeting Bob is at the top of my bucket list. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I was really lucky to meet him at the 2017 RTR, he's a good guy!😄 and I have a lot of respect for him.
Me too! 😀
OMG cody is such a happy dog, what a grand life he has ...he actually smiles aweeee
Me and my husband live in Australia ,because this country does not produce most things the prices of Vans camper and caravans are only for the wealthy ,we watch and love your shows and if we could pay what you guys are paying we would be out the door and on the road ,for a new adventure .There is no way we could afford to go away ,even hire fees are through the roof . A hard shell roof top tent would be the only way to go with a awning a good one you are looking at $4,000 ,We live in East Gippsland which is a beautiful part of Victoria Australia lots to see if you are into nature and wild beaches .All the best to you Bob from Brenda n John Bardsley
2 years later this vid is still invaluable. It was great to hear 2 opinions. Fantastic job guys!
4 years later this was still informative. Right now I have a used 2017 suv and I dont think I can scoot around in it, it has fold down seats that I dont want to remove because I still owe on it.😢
You can sleep long ways in a mini van, or a Suburban, or several other SUVs if you have too. It's better than being on the street and homeless if that is what you are facing. I think we all have to take the first step and get what we can afford whether we love it or not. Go from there. Don't get overwhelmed and just take the first step. Your entire mind set will change as you ease into this life style and realize you will learn more how to live this way each and every day.
Chrysler caravan is the way to go...we had ours for 19 years sold it for 400 dollars to a friend 144,000 miles still runs same air conditioner only thing we repaired were the tires👍👍👍🚐
You guys are awesome! Great video! Thank you, Cliff, for sharing your insights!
Here in Vancouver I always use CAA's (AAA in Canada) vehicle inspection service. A few times I've had them come and assess my own vehicle prior to resale to determine a reasonable asking price, and I've had them go to a dealership to inspect a vehicle that it would like to purchase.
They are a third party and have an excellent reputation. DO NOT use a dealership's recommendation for an inspection when it's a car you are buying from them, cuz you can count on the two companies greasing each other's palms. The only time I purchased a lemon is when I fell for that trick.
Thank you so much for uplifting,educating, and leading so many to happier and healthier lives. Much love💕
Thanks so much for answering my question. I was already leaning towards that conclusion. But then I saw a few cargo vans with sliding doors that had really nice build outs. Realistically though my poor shoulder wouldn't like lugging on the sliding door. Thanks for giving me even more reasons for staying away from the sliding door vans.
Hey Bob Newbie here. You are so right I am living through that now. Believed everything that the guy said. Now I am living through van hell.
Thank you, Bob! I got a 2003 GMC Savana van conversion for under $7000 and it has been a great "starter" vehicle for me. If I were under 5'6", I could stand up in it. Very comfy and reliable.
Hi Betsy,
Me too, I did so much research and listened to bobs vid. which van to buy a few times (thanks Bob) and wrote info down.
Got a 2006 5.3 Vortec Chevy
Savanna Denali with 94k mi.
Just putting my 2 wonderful dogs, mini fridge and solar generator inside as ive heard almost everyone say theyre sorry they brought soooo much stuff.
Have fun Betsy and of course thank you Bob for all your caring and concern for others.
Youre the best Bob...
Sweet spot Under $3500, under 1000-1030 miles
I had a beat up old Ford Explorer this guy wanted. Finally he offered me a 2001 Dodge Ram B3500 Van in trade. Took me like one second to say OK, lol. Great van i will be building into a camper. I lived in a van while in college in the 80s, loved it.
I freaking love you so much Bob! You and your team and all the people who allow you to interview them and who are sharing thier knowledge, it just is helping me to not lose hope, along with my housing. Helps so much. Keep up the good work!
my van has 250,000 miles (2000 chevy express 3500) i baby this van and only change oil and tires., check fluids often and heres a tip. alot of moonlighters at auto parts stores. found a guy who changed front brakes for $35 labor. Love your videos Bob. The invertor info i learned help me keep cool with two fans last summer in humid myrtle beach. ever do caravans in carolina/southern coast will you let me know.
I loved the notion of being uncomfortable for a while, just to be able to start the lifestyle...
👍It's a good dose of level-headed reality. Nothing scary, nothing that will likely be insurmountable... Just a good healthy sense of how to look down the road (as it were!)💗
You can prepare yourself for the discomfort. You need to exercise hard for your back, shoulders, neck. No blockages. No pain. Watch Austin Goh videos on utube. How to fix frozen shoulders..back...neck .or the motivational doctor Dr Mandell.
Stoism helps. Lowering your tolerance for luxury will help you to appreciate the little things 🙂
Thank you Bob and Cliff and Team!!! This was SO THOROUGH. Notes taken ✅. A lot of things are found by a Google search, but these days the sources behind the info can be so unknown; I appreciate the time you Pros take to answer our questions. We trust you ☺️. Take care!
Always helpful. I was just wondering about what to look for in a van i plan to purchase. Thank you so much you guys!
Bob and Cliff, you are both so sweet! i love you guys. :)
Fantastic video Bob, very informative, you told me so many things that I was wondering about without asking, kudos to you!
Can't wait to join you all!
Nomads should not be too busy to enjoy the solitude and love they have for the outdoors. I hope none of you guys are falling for the very thing you should be avoiding. The business of helping others can become just that, a business . Thanks for what you guys are doing but you gotta take care of you first. I said this for a positive reason none other.
Yes if you notice Bob went from saying fords were a no buy in 2017 to saying they are a good buy now. Im pissed I bought his book now. I feel ripped off.
This is a GREAT video Bob! Always wanted to know this info!
Great video, time flew by, thank you so much.
Very good video, I needed to know a lot of what you explained , thanks,
I may be watching this video a year and a half later, but, it has to be my favorite one. THANK YOU!!!!!
Thank you so much for the information. Hope to be on the road soon. I can't wait.
Trying my best to get started on my nomad journey of healing love these videos
I bought a short bus on a Gov't auction for $1100 w low miles & it came w a wheelchair lift. Perfect for the person in a power chair. I put solar on top, & that could easily run a cpap too for the person that needed one. I bought my panels & batteries from an individual online (offer up).
Thank you both. Very helpful and informative video.
Thank you so much for all the useful information!!!!!
Hello family! Checking in from Cincinnati Ohio! Thanks for the live broadcast! Great information!!
So great to have you out there guys and to talk frankly about what I want to avoid, lol, great info, thank you
Thank you so much for your input and guidance! Forever grateful! 💕🙏🏼
That was really interesting. I'm not a nomad, I just like a family van.
I just discovered this video and I am currently in the market for a van to go nomad!! This video was so very helpful!! Thank you Thank you!!
Great show guys wow it's like reading van life encyclopedia love it.Freedom freedom freedom is.
Great video. Not sure if you covered the old bread/ lunch type trucks. We bought an Arnold Bread truck way back and converted it to a camper. You can definitely stand up in it! Not the best mileage, but it was perfect for us and we had a dry bath for the camping toilet. Placed a large Rubbermaid round tub in the passenger wheel well with a shower curtain for a shower. Nice kitchen with 2 propane stove and insulated cooler that dropped into the counter with a hinged counter top. Toured Prince Edward Island that summer and it was awesome! ~ Diane
Great information. I live in a RAV4 but have thought about a van. Thanks for the video!
I saw a video where a family used a futon on the floor of their van with fold and go seats. They used it for camping but I could easily see a family of 4 or a couple using it as temp housing
Good sruff. Inforrmaion spanning the extremes of practical and functional bricks . Even if you are not between the brick or the the other stuff.these guys reveal building material..
Came in after the feed was live. I agree about the earthquake. I was 8 years old and in Turnagain.
I got lucky and found a 2007 Town & Country minivan with 40k miles/$4200. Got my inspection and they put new tires and brakes. SO excited to get it ready for the road. Thank you for this great information, so helpful!
Have dropped a couple thou on a complete transmission rebuild for my Caravan. (The Hippo, remembered fondly.)
😎 Nissan NV2500 and Nissan NV3500 are also cargo vans you can stand in.
That's not been my experience, but I'm sure access to parts depends on location, etc.
Instead of the NV3500 I'd get the Ford Transit 250, much better imo.
@@Joe44944 Why do you prefer it?
58:57... Really simple if you have 3,000 dollars,
AND an emergency fund, buy a minivan 2000 or newer,
120,000 miles or less, have it checked out by a mechanic,
do a no-build build,
join a caravan,
and by my book for $3.00 ....
Again, the EMERGENCY FUND is critical.
I love these videos they help me so much!
Thank you so much Bob! 😍
I took lots of notes - thank you both!
thanx Bob and cliffe, here in bc canada I think they are a wee bit more expensive, wish I was wrong and to get a van like yours bob with lower miles ,mucho bucks, thanx veryhelpful ..
Craigslist, yep. I got my last old car there for $400. It actually ran. Toyotas are good.
Thank you so much for all that information!!! You sure gave me a lot to think about!!!
🙂😎👍
Thanks for the advice!
So helpful! Thank you!
I’ve had a couple of vans that have been lifted it trashed the steering and suspension and alignment which I had to put back to stock the mechanics I talked to all said you are lucky to get 5000 miles on your tires usually way less if you have lot’s of money to throw away go for it if not don’t go there
Thanks for everything 😁
I read your book Bob. Lots of good info.
PNWester is spot on and yes they are maintained but also driven hard believe me I was a medic for 30 years.🤫
THIS IS A NICE, INFORMATIVE VIDEO.
"THANK YOU". 🖒😇
.... LOL! I REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME BOB SEEN THE BUBBLES...
THAT FACE! 🖒😄
Thanks gentlemen.
BEAUTIFUL! Good Choice!
I have an inexpensive UVC lamp that has 2 /15 minute on cycles. It requires you to push on and hold for a bit until a small blue light comes on, and the UVC will light up momentarily. Don't stare at the UVC lamp. (unless it is off, then who cares. I think my daughter thought the one I sent her was broken because it didn't light up right away. I use mine in the fridge, moving it around. Best, thanks for the great show (which I tweet, etc. to promote.
Valuable info!
Don't change tire size on a mini van because it will screen up the transmission..get a lift kit and talk to a GOOD mechanic about anything you decide to use to lift any automobile..ps..tune in to utube mechanic Scotty Killmers channel for any mechanic questions..He is the Bob Wells of mechanics..🤔👍👌😁🤗🇺🇲
Love your John Muir t-shirt Bob!
Liked your point As a former truck driver driver and travel trailer owner I would recommend in your conversation on towing a trailer with a van, I would look at that van owners manual for the tow rating specs. Towing something that is more than that vehicle tow rating is a dangerously and could be deadly situation.
Very informative
Great idea..mini can with tent
The cars that have been in floods have clouded looking headlights.
So do cars that haven't been driven through a flood.
Pick up the carpet in the passenger area and especially the trunk carpet. Also check the small wires on the inside of the headlights and taillights because there will be corrosion..also have a good mechanic check any car before you buy it.. cloudy headlights is not a good way to judge if it's been in a flood..
@@joannehowe9556 I just noticed that you might be my kinfolk.. hehehe
I know this is an old old video but, it needs to be said, a vehicle usually starts needing parts around 130 to 150K, so, a well maintained vehicle that has higher mileage usually has all the parts exchanged, so that has to be taken into consideration.
I have bought vehicles at 200K and better, that have run forever and are cheaper.
The van I drive now I bought at 200K and now has over 250K and besides a battery and brakes, I have done nothing else.
Dont wake me up! My Toyoya Sienna has been lifted for almost 3 years and she runs and drives beautifully! Of course this video is 3 years old so thee lifts were barely unknown back then. "Journeys off-road" folks. They got the lifts for all the minivans. I personally took the spacers off that I installed at the same time as the lift kit. Though the spacers gave the van a nice wide look, as the tires were offset and stuck out past the wheel well, It did effect the steering and traction in my opinion. You can see my Wilhelmina Van tour on my page.
Great info
I beg to differ, lots of used converted vans out there, depending on your location. Always get lots of maintenance records and do your homework. All used vehicles r going to need something done. All vehicles have factory defects/recalls/warranty issues. Gov't sites/owner forums are good place to start.
Hi Bob from Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
I love Bob’s t-shirt.
I wonder if you fellas would consider making this a series, covering buses and step vans (as somebody else suggested), and also older (and newer used?) Class B/C and campervans.
I've been eyeballing an older class C, but as you suggest there are all kinds of components that would be aging... Also I don't know if I need a separate inspection to check for the structure of the living quarters (leaks, mold, etc)
Ambulances also spend a lot of time idling, where the miles might lower but the engine might be used a bit more. Maintenance would also be a little more costly considering the weight.
What kind of screws were you using for paneling to the ribs?
Dodge caravan / Chrysler Town and country may get minor issues here and there but usually are very much a work horse , my Chrysler 06 Town and country I put heavy duty suspension and all terrain radials drives like a 4 door sport sedan handles very well .
Late 90s Caravans were known for needing transmissions. Mine needed 2!!!
Thanks
A used commercial vehicle needs a more specialized insurance policy.
(Just to bear in mind)
if a person boondocks quite a bit, what would be the recommended height of the van from the ground?
A commercial vehicle company that also rents, sells and leases their vans , trucks and heavy duty trucks that have “aged out”, but are still in good condition are well-kept and with current mechanical documents, are put up for sale (PENSKE, RYDER, etc), are quite a good place to look at.
My Chrysler mini transmission. went kaput.. I love my Toyota Sienna
Going to start out with my 07 TrailBlazer. I'm saving up to get the cargo trailer. Thinking a 6x12 foot should be fine starting out. I'm hoping to be on the road by summer 2021.
I'm 60K miles into my 2017 Chrysler Pacifica hybrid and it has been a maintenance dream so far. A couple minor recalls that the dealer took care of, but that's it. I know others have had some issues, but I just haven't experienced them.
My main concerns: (1) There are some minor annoyances: on rare occasions, the blinker doesn't respond as expected; navigation/GPS software gets completely disoriented at times (i just use my phone); other weird software things. (2) There are so many "luxury" items like auto sliding doors and rear hatch that eventually those will probably go and could be expensive to fix. I personally would prefer to just have all manual components, but that just wasn't an option on this vehicle. But as far is getting me from A to B, it's been great with little maintenance and I rarely need to fill up with gas.
The battery gets you about the first 30-35 miles and after that it automatically kicks over to gas, which is very convenient for either long trips or everyday living.
Toyota Sienna vans are great.
TY
If you was wanting to buy a older class c what yr and mileage would you look for
Thank you.
I also think, if you have limited money. Start/ with mini van or a Prius with a suv tent, as your doing blm save till you can upgrade and continue.
Bob where did you get your shirt? Love it!
Check w consumer reports & kelly blue book when considering what type for the years you might be considering when buying a vehicle. That helped me a lot in the last vehicle I bought.
About the Prius, youtuber mechanic Scotty Kilmer says if the generator goes out on the Prius it's a big $$$ problem