Owning a van is undoubtedly a labor of love, it is a continuous cycle of van repairs and maintenance that is best done DIY. While vans symbolize adventure, freedom, and limitless possibilities, the reality often involves more than simply refueling and embarking on road trips. It necessitates ongoing updates, including everything from cosmetic enhancements and exciting renovations to vital mechanical and functional repairs.
Despite the initial intimidation, handling your own van repairs can prove to be a rewarding endeavor and a pragmatic choice for van owners. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of DIY van repairs, discussing how they can lead to substantial time and cost savings in the long run.
Revamping, Repairing, and installing oh my!
From adding essential steps for easy entry to installing a convenient awning, or adding 360° lighting to our van’s exterior, our journey of revamping has been both a creative endeavor and a practical necessity. Despite being on a tight budget when we first acquired our van, we have steadily managed to make gradual upgrades over the years, carefully selecting and prioritizing based on the funds available. This resourceful approach has allowed us to continuously improve our van’s functionality while staying true to our vision. In the following sections, we will delve into the specific upgrades we have implemented, highlighting both the creative and practical aspects of our journey.
We’ve learned that small but meaningful upgrades, such as a new fridge and a well-equipped galley, can significantly enhance our comfort and overall experience on the road. Our tried and true suspended-in-front-of-van cozy sleeping quarters providing a cozy haven wherever we go, remain the centerpiece of our van. Every upgrade, regardless of its scale, has been a testament to our dedication and the limitless potential of van life.
Many of the upgrades we’ve accomplished were done ourselves, and while some tasks were relatively minor, like installing the We-Boost install to strengthen off-grid internet signal, others involved adding sidesteps and a brush guard from Roam Built, as well as installing an Owl Vans roof rack and ladder. And of course, We also took on the custom design and construction of our front double bunk beds which has become an awesome feature of our van. These upgrades have not only improved the functionality of our van but have also added personal touches that make it truly our own. To see a comprehensive list of our best Van Life upgrades, check out our other post.
GREAT VAN CONVERSION COMPANIES
By the fourth year of our Van Life journey, we had experienced numerous issues with dead batteries and insufficient off-grid power, prompting us to realize the need for an upgrade to our van’s electrical system. This was one area of DIY van repair that we knew was beyond our capabilities. We lacked extensive electrical knowledge and didn’t have enough time for troubleshooting. Fortunately, we were fortunate to find the incredible team at Campfyre Vans in Reno. Words cannot express our gratitude for this exceptional van business, especially considering the industry’s share of questionable players (more on that below). In the following sections, we will delve into our experience with Campfyre Vans and discuss the importance of finding trustworthy professionals in an industry that sometimes falls short.
NIGHTMARE VAN CONVERSION COMPANIES
Campfyre Vans took our existing Battle Born Batteries system that we had initially purchased and upgraded it to a state-of-the-art van electrical setup. The expertise and unwavering dedication they brought to the table were truly unmatched. Now, we embark on our adventures with confidence, knowing that we have the most reliable and robust van electrical system imaginable. We can even run a plug-in heater for 6 hours without depleting the batteries. As experienced Van Lifers are well aware, this demands a substantial amount of power.
Regarding the issue of questionable players in the industry, during our cross-country trip, our newly installed Eberspacher diesel heater from Off Highway Vans in Salt Lake City completely failed, resulting in us scrambling to decipher the error codes. This left us without heating in freezing temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit at a truck stop in Wyoming. In order to keep our elderly cat warm, we had to stay awake throughout the night and continuously run the van. The following day, we had to deviate from our planned route and make a detour to Best Buy to purchase a Dyson heater as a temporary solution. Our sole concern was the well-being of our beloved 17-year-old Calico cat.
We were able to rely on our plug-in Dyson heater as a solution, thanks to the exceptional electrical system installed by Campfyre Vans. Unfortunately, Off Highway Vans disappointed us with their faulty installation, prompting us to take legal action through Utah Consumer Protection. Campfyre Vans came to our rescue with their exceptional installation of the electric system. This experience serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the existence of van companies that prioritize quick profits over quality workmanship, while highlighting the importance of reputable companies that uphold industry standards and take pride in their craftsmanship.
It’s Becoming a Racket
Van companies often charge exorbitant rates for even the simplest upgrades, surpassing the earnings of an ER doctor. Surprisingly, these upgrades do not require a decade of relentless study, enduring grueling 16-hour days at meager wages, or investing thousands in continuing education, exams, licensure, and credentialing. Furthermore, the physical demands of the job are much less demanding. Therefore, it is a logical choice for us. Sprinter Dad has taken matters into his own hands, assuming the role of a self-taught converter, mechanic, and installer. This investment is worthwhile, saving him time and eliminating the need for extra shifts to cover exorbitant labor costs.
Amidst the Great Reset, an unexpected paradigm shift has emerged, as doctors opt to become mechanics in an effort to alleviate financial burdens. While we acknowledge the underlying systemic dysfunction at play, it becomes evident that being a van owner can quickly deplete your finances unless you are astute and resourceful. And that’s exactly what we’ve become.
DIY VAN LIFE
After a challenging experience with Off Highway Vans in Salt Lake City, we have firmly decided to embrace the DIY path. This ordeal has made it evident that taking matters into our own hands is the most viable option. Sure, we favor a hands-on approach because we need to. Only a select few Van Lifers, belonging to an extremely small category, enjoy the affluence of owning luxury custom vans or paying for repairs without any concern. However, for the rest of us, our vans sure possess character, a personal touch, and stories that will always surpass the van talk of high-end van owners. We, as common folk, create the epics!
