Whatoptionsshouldiget
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What options should I get?
These are my takes on this question. Scroll down for some distilled wisdom from the mailing list.
I have some thoughts based on my style of traveling. I grew up backpacking, so I tend to travel light. I'm also a techno-geek, so I like to have computers. Here's my list of options:
Thngs I'd get from the factory
- Furnace
- Hot water dispenser
- Dual batteries
- Power driver's seat (for height adjustment)
- Class III trailer towing kit
- Porta-potty
- Awning (a crank-out Fiamma, not the hand-rolled kind)
What mods have I made to the vehicle?
- dual-power radio (switch between starting and house batteries)
- night lights (red LEDs built into the standard overhead lights)
- CB
- computer mount
- drop down computer monitor/TV
- 1,000/2,000 watt Tripp-Lite UPS (replaced the converter that came with the vehicle)
- backup and rearview cameras
- electric radiant heat panels (see HeatingTheWesty)
- permanently mounted bike rack (see BicycleRacks)
What things would I not get?
The only option I'd omit is the running boards. I think they drop the clearance way too low. I'd like to see nerf bars offered as a factory option. ~DeeZee (http://www.deezee.com) makes a nerf bar for the Econoline; it's model no. FX27302. I have not seen these but I'm thinking of getting them.
Things I would change
The only thing I would change is to have replaceable screens in the pop-up tent. I'd like to have different panels - fine mesh, the coarse mesh that is standard, clear plastic for cold days.
Things I'd like to see in future Westys
The dash mounted 'power point' should run off the house batteries. There should be more power points throughout; one in the back, one amidships and one in the dash.
Things I'm not sure about
The AC. Initially, I thought not having one was going to be a problem. As it turns out, I spend so much time outside the van, that it really makes little difference. There was one night when I would have liked to have it, but otherwise I don't miss it.
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I travel with my laptop. Use a small inverter to keep it charged. Bought ~DeLorme Street Atlas and GPS and threw away the road maps. Take lots of digital photos and upload them to my web site whenever I can hook up to a land line or ~WiFi. Works very well, as you can see from my photo journals.
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I would think hard about getting the furnace and leave off the running boards. In addition we got propane hot water, an awning, a hitch receiver. We often take a laptop but rely on libraries or internet cafes for emailweb access.
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I purchased my Westy off the lot (Mike or Terry can further explain) and is equiped with trailer hitch, running boards, Microwave, Air Conditioning, Furnace and Porta Potti. Except for the running boards, there have been many occasions where I've been really glad that I had all of the above. Particularly the Porta Potti and Furnace. The only thing it's missing that I would like is an awning.
We dry camp and camp early in the season as well as late in the fall. We have 2 6v batteries, furnace, running boards, awning. the microwave is a waste of storage space as is the propane hot water tank. (no shower so no need for a water heater). I have wired in an inverter and installed an instant hot water heater to make tea etc while on the road. That also is not really needed. With these vehicles you will find that "less is deffinately more". The awning is great but I am currently looking into a side tent to expand living space and leave to reserve my site as I roam around.
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