Dave Arbogast Conversion Vans

Football season is right around the corner and the first preseason games will be kicking off before you know it.

There's something special about the time of year when families and friends gather to enjoy the big game.

If you travel in a conversation van, did you know you can create a unique atmosphere which will help you enjoy the game like you've never enjoyed it before? It's true. People that go tailgating often use their vehicles to set up good items for everyone in the parking lots. Believe it or not, you can use your conversation van to your advantage just like they do. Conversion vans can actually make a good football season even better with the right setup.

A conversion van has plenty of space to accommodate everything you would like to do this football season. You could easily place a small television in the back so that you can watch televised pregame activities if you like. You might also enjoy watching highlight tapes from last season or memorable moments in the team's history. You can also bring speakers that will amplify the sound of the television, and these speakers can also allow you to play music that will get everyone pumped up. All your electronic items will be safe and secure in the back of the van.

No experience with the big game would be the same without the food. The size of the conversion van allows you to store the food as you travel to the game. You could even bring a small grill to make chicken, steaks, and other tasty items. You might even want to bring a fryer so that you can make chicken wings, which are a staple of the football culture. Don't forget the chips and dip as you head to the grocery store to get a list for packing your van full of food.

You'll never experience the game the same way again after using the conversion fan for whatever you need. You might even want to store all that important merchandise for your favorite team such as jerseys, hats, flags, face paint and more. Once you go in the gates, the people will know you had a great time during the pregame festivities. The conversion van will become the go to area for everyone you know. They'll look forward to the following games where they can once again have a good time at your van. Football season is the time to go all out in anticipation for the fun ahead of you.

Anyone in the market for a top-performing conversion van will be most concerned about its number of features, how well they function, and the vehicle economy. These critical components are what make one model of high-top conversion van stand apart from the fleet of others saturating the market. GMC has excelled in these areas with the release of the 2013 Explorer Conversion Van. This van brings a compelling number of amenities to the plate when one is looking for unmatched performance in a vehicle build to haul the entire family.

One of the first things that a potential buyer will notice is that the standard features and the use of space are all geared towards the ideal comfort of the rider. The remote start allows the driver to warm up the vehicle before the adventure even begins. Once the passengers are ready to board, seven can be comfortably seated from front to back. Starting in the rear, passengers enjoy powered-bench seating. The next row utilizes rotating captain's chairs while the navigators in the front are comfortably sat in bucket seating. All of the bells and whistles are in place for the front-row seating, ensuring a trip that is more than a pleasure. The bucket seats are heated, feature power lumbar support, and slide in order to be fully adjustable for each the driver's unique specifications.

Space is not the only big selling point for this new GMC van. Both kids and adults alike will find themselves attracted to the wide range of electronics and entertainment hardware that is built into the interior. A premium surround sound system works in conjunction with a 26-inch television that is equipped for DVD playback. Additionally, when the film starts to roll, the driver can still concentrate on the road thanks to the wireless headphone ports. When kids and young adults are anxious to use digital devices of their own, there are plenty of USB ports available for versatility.

GMC increases the desirability of this model by making the interior amenities second only to the automotive engineering. The powertrain utilizes the 5.3-Liter Vortec V-8, a critically acclaimed system. It revs the horsepower up to a healthy 301 hp at 1500 rpm. The same engine that has worked so beautifully in the Sierra and the Silverado performs just as wonderfully here. Powered primarily by the rear wheels, this van regulates its generous amounts of power through the use of its automatic, four-speed transmission. This GMC also excels where other vans typically fall short, namely, exterior styling. It rides on premium, 20-inch chrome wheels that compliment the metallic fade of a two separate tones in the paint job. The whole package is topped off with a chrome grill, LED running lights, and wrap-around ground effects as well.

Art isn't exactly what it used to be.

Back in the day, it was all about painting and drawing and things of that nature; now, however, art has evolved its way into whole new genres like video games, structured gardening, and apparently, even bottle caps. Randy Gilliland, a 52 year old man born in Warren, Ohio and currently living in Florida, now drives around in a 1995 Chevy Astro conversion van covered in thousands of bottle caps.

From afar, the van looks incredibly intriguing, and certainly makes the observer do a double-take. The designs that have been created with the help of the bottle caps give the van an odd, indescribable texture. It looks as though the multi-colored patterns have been painted on in big, circular blotches. Upon closer review, however, this popping texture becomes easily attributable to a wide variety of different colored bottle caps. Who would've thought that a hulking Chevy Astro conversion from '95 would make such a great canvas for a form of art as unique as Gilliland's?

The process of turning the Astro into a piece of mobile art first began in 2009, when Randy used some old bottle caps to form a peace sign on the hood of his car. From there, he slowly and steadily continued to flesh out his project for about eight months, until he was involved in an injury at work. He abandoned the project until just recently, when it suddenly gained attention all over the world for its incredible level of creativity. Now, Gilliland is continuing his masterpiece with the help of bottle caps being sent to him not just from the United States, but from overseas as well.

His artistic process is quite simple; he works out his designs on his living room floor, and when they are up to par with his standards, he carefully glues them on to the frame of his conversion van. Gilliland is not able to determine how many bottle caps make up his designs, but he has counted the amount of silicon tubes he has used as glue: 178. In regards to time, Gilliland was only able to state that he has dedicated, "countless hours," to the project. Although it appears to spectators that the project is complete, Gilliland says he still has a ways to go. As with any other more, "conventional," artist, he seems to view his art as something that is constantly in the process of being improved; a piece of work that continues to change with time, one might say.

One may assume that the designs would quickly fall apart in inclement weather, due to the fact that the only thing keeping it all together is some silicon. However, Gilliland says that maintaining his work is rather easy. "It's actually pretty low maintenance," he says. "It holds up pretty well except that the Florida sun tends to wash out or fade the colors some. But I'm actually pretty happy with it. And it runs good." He also said that when bottle caps happen to fall off, he simply replaces them with new ones.

Motorists in his home town often stop him on the road so that they can take pictures with the van; it has become a sort of symbol of a new form of expression. According to Gilliland, he has even seen some people pass him by on the highway and then slow down to get a better look at his masterpiece. "I usually drive it pretty slow so when people go to pass me and they see what I'm driving they actually slow down so they can see it better," Gilliland stated recently. "We haven't caused any accident though, which is a good thing."

*Photo by Tribune Chronicle.

Curious as to what some of the new additions were to Explorer's 2013 conversion vans?

The Explorer Conversion Van has maintained its lead in this market of vehicles by constantly updating its features, refining its automotive engineering, and shaping each new model based on the feedback of their customers.

The latest additions and improvements to hit the market are no different. Customers still have access to all the great features that they know and love in addition to new and unexpected ones that offer both value and convenience. The first major selling point is the fact that each buyer can create a custom van that is suited for their needs. Rather than be stuck with an entire package that only meets some of their needs, people can customize the conversion van in order to get the features they want without artificially raising the bottom-line price. In addition to keeping customers happy by offering them freedom in buying choices, the conversion van delivers freedom on the road by incorporating reliable and efficient automotive technology.

The all-new Explorer Vans open people's eyes to a vast world of driving pleasures by upgrading nearly every facet of their design. The Explorer's new engine boasts of 310 horsepower made possible by the Vortec engine that puts out 325 foot-pounds of torque. This power does not come at the expense of gas mileage, however. This powerful but sensible vehicle still achieves 20 mpg on the highway. Buyers have gravitated towards the Explorer Conversion Van in the past due to its ample amount of space as well. The new models rolling off the line give drivers 36 percent more space than your average vehicle geared towards the designs based on SUVs. This extra space is expertly incorporated into the interior design, while only expanding the traditional conversion van base by no more than a few inches.

Just because you are behind the wheel of a conversion van does not mean that your towing capability is limited either. These new models are designed for the purposes of allowing you and your entire family to reach your travel destination with all of your toys and gear in tow. The latest Explorer hauls 6,300 pounds and accommodates seven passengers. In addition to seating people comfortably, these new conversion vans pride themselves on being the standard of luxury as well. Leather seating gently welcomes you into its space while settings for ambient lighting gently relax you for the ride ahead. The electronics meant to pamper passengers also offer safety and convenience for the driver. The in-dash navigation system, StabiliTrak, and a rear-backing camera merely scratch the surface of the amenities hidden under this stylish van's belt. The dream does not end there. Customization and additions can satisfy every member of the family, including the furry ones. From saddle racks to tailgating and dog kennel equipment built right in, Explorer makes the ideal an automotive reality.

The GMC Savana Passenger Van is an all around workhorse created to make work simpler and more fitting. It is available in two different wheelbase lengths. One of the wheelbase lengths is the regular, which 135 inch/3,429 mm, and the other one is the extended, which is 155 inch/3,937 mm. There are a few new features that were added to the GMC Savana. These new features include:

* Available navigation radio

* Available rear park assist

* Available rear vision camera

The 1500 Series vans contain light duty models. They are rated at 7,300 pounds. The 2500 Series contain the heavy duty models. They are rated at 8,600 pounds. The 3500 Series contain full bodied models, which are heavy duty as well. They are rated at 9,600 pounds. This also includes the 6.0L gas V8 and also 9,900 pounds with the Duramax 6.6L diesel.

A broad range of configurations and features, including many powertrain options or choices, gives many competitive benefits with standard and accessible features that include:

* All wheel drive

* Up to 10,000 pounds of trailer rating on the 2500 and 3500 models

* Right hand cargo doors (driver side)

* MP3 capable radio available included with a USB port

* Six speed fuel saving automatic transmissions

* Accessible locking rear differential

* A 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel engine available with B20 biodiesel ability

* SiriusXM Satellite Radio offered with digital radio

* StabiliTrak electronic stability or steadiness comes standard with all models

Savana Cargo models are also available with a dedicated condensed natural gas package.

As mentioned earlier, new features for 2013, for GMC savana, is a rear vision camera, an ultrasonic rear park assist, and a navigational radio. On LS and LT models, these features are optional. The rear vision camera display is shown in the rearview mirror of the vehicle. However, if your vehicle is supplied with the new navigational radio, then is going to be displayed on the radio screen.

Here are the GMC savana's available and standard features. They include:

* Power windows that are accessible.

* Remote keyless entry is accessible.

* Rear auxiliary heater.

* Steering wheel audio controls and leather wrapped steering wheel.

* Remote vehicle starter system.

* Rear air conditioning.

* Standard air conditioning (single zone).

* Driver data or information center. Outside temperature and compass features
accessible.

* Sirius Satellite Radio accessible.

* A range of audio systems are available, which include, CD/MP3 capacity and a
USB port for all models. Audio system provision package comes standard.

* Six way power adjustable driver's seat is accessible.

* Custom cloth or vinyl upholstery available or offered in medium pewter or
neutral colors.

* Enhance interior lighting package that include two roof mounted lights and
three access panels available in the cargo area.

* Two auxiliary 12 volt power outlets that are standard and placed on the inside
engine cover that are available.

One of my daily duties involve searching the web for anything and everything related to the conversion van industry.

While scouring YouTube this morning, I found this great video the Explorer Van Company put together. It includes some interviews with some big wigs at the company as well as a brief video tour of the plant (which also includes some video of vans actually being converted.)

It's definitely worth checking out if you're a current van owner or at the very least, an enthusiast of them

From the moment the first automobiles appeared and began making traveling infinitely easier, we've been a mobile society.

The ability to travel great distances in a short a mount of time changed the way we live, work and more importantly - have fun. We can now take more trips and go farther and accommodate more of the things we need on these long trips thanks to automobiles.

The pickup truck gave us more room to carry items. The station wagon made it easier to carry a whole family on a road trip. RVs and sport utility vehicles make extended vacations on the road possible. With that said, paving the way for RVs was an ingenious idea called the conversion van.

Not only did the conversion van change the way we travel the country's highways and byways, it helped revolutionize the automobile itself.

Basic conversion vans began to appear in the 1970's. The free spirits of the decade wanted to explore and there were few vehicles which could adapt to their lifestyle. Thus, people began to take ordinary vans and "convert" them into a type of vehicle which fit exactly what they needed. The earliest conversions simply included the addition of seats and carpeting. From that, came the murals on the sides. Almost every conversion van had an intricate mural on the side panels. As the conversion van gained popularity, owners became more imaginative in their customization and use of the vehicle.

But as most things change, so did the image of the conversion van in the 1980s. The conversion van shed its "bad boy" image to become a family vehicle. Some of the same people that started their families in a conversion van were now transporting their families in the same type of vehicle. Because of this shift, the interiors in conversion vans began to change as well. Gone was the shag carpeting and chandeliers. Entertainment now consisted of TVs and VCRs.

From the 1990's and on, conversion vans became all purpose vehicles. Travelers who didn't want a full sized RV turned to the conversion van. The vans became popular for sports fans tailgating outside of football games. The corporate world turned to conversion vans as cheap way to transport large numbers of workers. Even the features that only conversion vans used to have became popular in all automobiles. Now most cars have TVs, reclining seats and even removable seats.

The conversion van had grown up and changed just as its users had. Today, conversion vans are as popular as ever and that popularity is here to stay.

The 2014 Winnebago Era arrived to the dealership this past weekend and we couldn't be more thrilled.

Not only is it one of the most highly sought after Class B Motorhomes on the market, but new 2014 version comes with an even sleeking looker exterior than last year's model.

For those of you who are die-hard Class B or Winnebago enthusiasts, this is the Class B for you.

In today's video walkthrough, Dave Arbogast Conversion Van Specialist Larry Oaks walks us through this 2013 Explorer Conversion Van with Bruno Valet Plus Seat.

This conversion van is special in that it's ideal for those individuals who may have difficulty getting in and out of a conversion but are still looking to enjoy the luxury of traveling in one.

It also comes loaded with some great features die-hard enthusiasts will love.

Check it out today!

In case you haven't noticed, our video team and Dave Arbogast Conversion Van Specialist Larry Oaks have been working around the clock to bring you more walkthrough videos of your favorite conversion vans.

On top of that, we also recently did a complete overhaul to our new conversion van YouTube channel. Now, you can check out all your favorite videos by visiting this link.

One of our main goals with this revamped channel is to help provide customers with one of the best online resources in the country (if not the world) when it comes to conversion vans. And in case you haven't noticed, there is very little when it comes to this area on the web.

It's one of the reasons our conversion van and Internet teams have joined forces...

From standard hi-top and low-top to wheelchair accessible, 9 passenger vans and more; we're doing everything we can to take conversion van online resources to the next level.

If you haven't already, please take some time to check out our new YouTube channel where you'll find everything anything you need on current 2013 models from Southern Comfort and Explorer.

Also, if there is anything else you would like to see added to our YouTube channel, simply drop us a line! You can contact Larry Oaks or Darrin Michael via e-mail. Don't forget to provide us with the stock #, year, make and model of the unit you're interested in.

As with any vehicle, it's always important to keep your conversion van looking clean by doing periodic washings.

A thorough washing will not only keep your van looking great, but can also help to prevent the development of rust and other corrosion.

With that said, conversion vans can be a little more difficult to clean than most other vehicles due to their large size. Some specials steps must be taken to be sure you're ready to bring your A-game to the table when washing your van.

Automated Washes

In some cases, a conversion van can be cleaned by taking it through an automated commercial carwash. However, van owners need to be certain the van will FIT into the carwash. There is usually a sign near the carwash entrance stating the maximum vehicle height a carwash will accept. Trying to put an oversized vehicle into the carwash can result in expensive damage to both the vehicle and the carwash. Don't just think about the height of your van. Antennas and other rooftop accessories may need to be removed before going through the carwash as.

Washing Your Van at A Carwash or at Home

When washing a conversion van at a standard carwash or at home, it is important to have the right tools. A step stool or short ladder is one tool which is needed to properly wash a conversion van. These tools will allow the van owner to access the top of the van to make sure it is thoroughly cleaned. The use of a ladder or stool will also allow for a visual inspection of the van's roof for possible problems. Brushes and other cleaning devices fitted with an extension handle are also useful for cleaning a conversion van. While spray on waxes typically do not provide as attractive of a finish as a hand waxing, spray on waxes are ideal for conversion vans as it can take hours to hand wax a conversion van. Due to the size of a conversion van, a vacuum cleaner or carpet cleaner can help speed the process of cleaning the interior. One last thing, cleaning your conversion van's windows is also very important. After all, no one likes to look out of a window covered in dirt, grimes and dead bugs after a long haul in the country.

Don't Forget to Clean EVERYTHING

When cleaning a conversion van, it is important to wash the underside of the vehicle to prevent corrosion. When cleaning tires on a conversion van, use water to spray off the wheels and tires, wheel wells and splash guards under the van to remove dirt, sand and other debris. Tires and wheels can then be cleaned and preserved with a commercial product designed for that purpose. When cleaning the tires and wheels, the van owners should keep an eye out for possible problems such as low tire pressure, dented wheels or dry rot on the tires.

Though cleaning a conversion van can take some time and effort, it is worth it. By keeping a conversion van clean, the van will look great and last longer. Best of all, once it is clean it will be ready to hit the road on its next great adventure.

Are you in the market to buy a conversion van?

Do you want to know where you can find the best prices around for several different 2013 models?

Well you're in luck!

Right now, Dave Arbogast Conversion Vans is offering some of the highest quality inventory you'll find anywhere. Prices have been slashed to bring you the biggest savings of the year.

2013 Conversion Vans

We're cutting prices on all of our 2013 models and couldn't be more thrilled. So what are some of the awesome features you'll find in them? These vans can come with a wide range of amenities including up to a 31" TV, premium surround sound system, DVD player, stereo, rear climate control, a power recline sofa bed, and seating control.

2013 GMC Conversion Van Explorer Hi-Top

The black interior appeals to many customers, and so does the leather seating. It's easy to stay clean and keep things feeling nice inside this van. The high top raised roof adds a nice touch to an already exquisite van. We expect these vans won't last long at the prices we're offering so don't forget to hurry and give our van team a call!

2013 GMC Conversion Van Explorer 9 Passenger

These special conversion vans are a fan favorite among van enthusiasts. They come with three doors which allow up to nine people to ride in the van. These vans are perfect for large families so as they have plenty of room for everyone when it comes relaxing, long trips. Nothing beats a family road trip in a comfortable van.

The friendly staff is waiting to help you at Dave Arbogast Conversion Vans. You can learn more about the special pricing by contacting them at (866) 975 - 3287.

Chevrolet understands that customers who are in the market for a high-top conversion van are looking for more than just space at a bargain price. The styling, design, and ergonomic features must all maintain delicate balances that are carefully installed in order to create a vehicle that performs at levels well above the competitors.

The 2013 Chevrolet Conversion Van Majestic SSx Hi-Top has done just this, taking all the successes of past conversion vans released by the company and building on them. Knowing that this is true, customers can count of a vehicle that is economical, attractive, and outfitted with all the latest technology that makes any journey one that offers both adventure and comfort.

The core of this van's strength starts with its engine. This 5.3-Liter, V8 is equipped with all the power needed to reach any destination yet it does not consume fuel at a rate that makes getting there a huge financial burden. Drivers enjoy a smooth 4-speed, automatic transmission that works with a highly refined powertrain. From the engine outwards, the details are a thing of beauty. The interior features an ample amount of cargo space but does not fail to leave out the little niceties that can make all the difference while on a long trip. Cup holders are present for virtually all passengers, and outlets are within the reach of every person in need of charging their personal digital devices. However, the van itself is well equipped for everyone's entertainment needs. It features an on-board CD and DVD player that works in conjunction with a state-of-the-art Vizio flatscreen. The audio system uses powerful speakers that bring surround sound to life for passengers. Should the drivers need peace and quiet while making their way down the road, there are individual audio head jacks for anyone enjoying the entertainment.

Comfort is not present only thanks to the audio/video components, however. The driver and front passenger can ease into the fully-electric captain's chairs that work with them as they move from one destination to the next. The same ergonomic design is built into the seating for the middle row, and travelers in the back can stretch their limbs as they enjoy spacious, bench seating. In all, seven passengers will enjoy every moment that they can spend in this finely crafted, luxury cabin. The hi-top ceiling incorporates a sunroof, adjustable lighting, and ventilation for each seat. The environmental controls can be customized for every zone of the interior cabin as well. On the exterior of the 2013 Chevrolet Conversion Van Majestic SSx Hi-Top, minimal styling has been perfectly blended with accessibility and durability. Entering the vehicle requires little effort thanks to the side runners, and the large, chrome wheels give you a sense of pride as you move down the roadway.

Conversion vans are great for a lot of reasons.

Aside from comfortable and luxurious transportation, conversion vans make many other fun activities possible. Think about it. There is a reason why van owners are often considered van owners for life.

It's because people LOVE them!

With that said, fall is here, and with it comes a variety of new opportunities. Summer heat is fading, but the weather is still too nice to sit at home waiting for winter. It's time to get your conversion van ready for some fall excitement. Here are a few ideas to help you kick off your fall.

Tailgating

Fall brings football games to high schools, colleges, and professional arenas across the country. Tailgating has a long tradition at football games everywhere, and a conversion van is the perfect vehicle for tailgating. Load up a cooler and a portable grill, a few camp chairs, and some seasonal attire and a blanket, and you are ready for fall tailgating.

Camping

Camping is a great pastime, whether solo or with family or friends. Camping provides an opportunity to relax and unwind from life's stresses in a simple, natural environment. Let's face it though, sleeping on the ground can get old. Conversion van owners have the best of both worlds when they go camping. There is no need to sleep on the ground when you have a dry, comfortable bed in your van. There's also no need to worry about the hassle of a full-size RV for a weekend getaway when a conversion van can provide plenty of comfort.

Fishing

Fall fishing trips are an enjoyable activity for many anglers. A conversion van allows you to travel and relax in style. There is no need to worry about expensive hotels or sleeping on the cold ground in a tent when you bring a conversion van. Bring along a grill and a cooler and you have everything you need for supper at the van after a day on the lake or river.

Road tripping

The lure of the open road calls out to many of us, and fall is a wonderful time to hit the road for a new adventure. Conversion vans are the perfect road trip vehicle. Travel in comfort and style, while being free to stop for a comfortable rest or nap whenever the urge strikes. Bring along some gear and camp in the van during a multi-day road trip. If your conversion van is set up with a stove you can even cook your own meals as you travel.

Get Your Conversion Van Ready

Whatever your favorite van pastime, fall is a great time to get out for a new adventure. It's time to get your conversion van ready to make some new memories.

Automobiles have come a long way when it comes to making life easier for those with disabilities.

With that said, the conversion van has come even farther.

Since its debut more than fifty years ago, the conversion van has become an asset to those suffering with disabilities, allowing the disabled to get around more comfortably as well as much more easily than that of a standard van.

Today's conversion vans can be custom equipped to suit the needs of both a driver or passenger with a disability. If the disability is a motor problem with lifting the legs to get into the van, there is now an option of including a motorized valet seat which will lower with the help of a handheld remote control, and will then rise and turn after the passenger is sitting comfortably on the seat thus eliminating the need to lift the legs to enter the van. If passengers are wheelchair bound, conversion vans can be equipped with hydraulic lifts that will lift the wheelchair into the van.

The conversion van has many features on board to insure safety of all passengers. Features such as power windows and mirrors, automatic lights that will come on and go off when needed, a video screen in the back- up mirror to let you view what is behind the van when backing, and a sensor that beeps when an object is too close during backing up all work to make the conversion van an easy drive. Optional On-Star service is available so if there is an emergency, help is only minutes away.

The comfort level of the conversion van for passengers is high. Some conversion vans are equipped with built in television screens that can play video games, movies, or connect to a computer device. Equipped with 110 volt outlets, the van will allow any equipment that a passenger might need to be used without worry of power outage. If a passenger is in need of a special piece of electrical equipment, the conversion van can handle it.

With plenty of added space in the van comes comfort. Extra head and leg room allows manipulating a disabled person while in the van much easier and safer. Caregivers have more room to move around the interior when tending their disabled passenger.

Being disabled does not have to mean giving up the freedom to see the country, take trips, and go places that other people enjoy. The comfort and convenience that the conversion van affords to its passengers makes transportation for a disabled person a reality and gives them back the independence they so richly deserve.

2014 Roadtrek 40th anniversary model.jpg

Roadtrek will be unveiling their 40th anniversary edition model at the 2013 Supershow in Hershey, Pennsylvania on September 11-15, 2013.

Some of the new features in this anniversary edition will include a crushed glass exterior paint finish in a mocha/steel color that stands out, tan leather captain chairs and couch, extra headroom, and an integrated shower with bamboo cabinets. Other features include 205 watts of solar power, 3500 watt engine generator, 3000 watt inverter, four coach batteries and a hydronic hot water heat system. All Roadtrek RV's are built on Chevy van chassis. The anniversary edition is Chevy's higher end model the 190 Popular.

Roadtrek Motorhomes, Inc is based out of Ontario, Canada and leads in the class B industry for manufacturing RV's in North America. President Jim Hammill is set to celebrate 40 years in the business by introducing a model that includes everything that has made Roadtrek successful over the years.

Originally founded in 1953 by Jac Hanemaayer who became involved in RV's for personal use by designing one for himself and had it built by a company that was struggling to stay alive at the time, Home & Park Vehicles. Hanemaayer liked the RV so much afterwards that he bought the company. In later years, he completely re-designed it engineering a now-famous low profile roof, lowered floor and three floor plans to choose from. It was then that Roadtrek Van Motorhome was born.

Roadtrek offers many standard comforts and features. They include the following:
Kitchen, Bathroom, inside and outside showers, bedroom, relaxation area, entertainment area, heating and cooling, spare room and an optional four-wheel drive. All models are completely self-contained and are Chevy models.

Roadtrek offers many traveling uses including leisure vacations, long drives, tailgating at sporting events, outdoor recreation, spectator sports activities, visiting families, mobile office and/or meeting room, traveling for work and more.

Roadtreks are ultra clean fuel efficient and have turbo diesel V6 engines. With an adaptive electronic program for stability it will manage the vehicles load capacity at all times and use traction control and anti-lock braking systems when necessary. All cabs offer climate control, tilt steering and comfort seating. Rack and pinion steering gives a smooth driving experience. Since Roadtreks are relatively small in comparison to other RV's it makes it easier to park in regular spaces avoiding the RV restricted parking regulations.

Roadtrek The Van is the home away from home and your luxury van. Come on out to the Supershow in Hershey, Pennsylvania September 11-15, 2013 and see the unveiling of their 40th anniversary edition model.

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If you are the owner of a conversion van, then your tires may see more wear and tear than that of a typical, lighter car. This means that, without the proper care over time, you could end up having to replace your conversion tires more often. Fortunately, by simply knowing the basics when it comes to conversion van tires, you can take good care of them and avoid having to spend your hard-earned money on replacement tires for many miles to come.

Air Pressure

One of the most important aspects of keeping your conversion van tires in running shape for tens of thousands of miles to ensure that they are always properly inflated. Start by consulting your van's manual to find out exactly what PSI, or pounds per square inch of air pressure, your tires should have. This number can also be found on tires themselves if you do not have the manual.

From there, use an air pressure tool to test the current PSI in your tires and fill or deflate them as necessary. This should be done at least once per month, but perhaps even more frequently when temperatures fluctuate. Specifically, during the early months of spring and later months of fall, it may be necessary to check your tire pressure once a week. If nothing else, be sure to take this step before embarking on any road trip.

Tire Rotation

Another important factor in keeping your conversion van tires in quality shape for a long time to come is making sure that you are rotating them as needed. You can find out how often you should rotate your tires by reading your owner's manual. Typically, however, this should be done approximately every 10,000 miles. This is the best way to ensure even wear and tear on all of your tires so that you get the most out of them.

You can get your tires rotated for an affordable price and in just a matter of minutes at just about any oil change shop or tire shop. Most conversion van owners get this done at the same time that they get their oil changed or have any other regularly scheduled maintenance done on the vehicle.

Know When to Replace

After about 50,000 miles, even with the best car, you will probably still need to replace your conversion van tires. Be sure to replace them as soon as possible when needed. The best way to determine that you need new tires is through the trusty penny test; stick a penny upside down in the tread of your tire. If you can still see Abraham Lincoln's head in its entirety, your tires are good. Otherwise, it is time to replace!

In this week's video walkthrough, Dave Arbogast Conversion Van Specialist Larry Oaks walks through this 2014 Explorer Conversion Van.

This particular model comes loaded with some great features, not to mention one very sleek exterior.

Check it out by clicking here.

When looking for a large conversion van there are ton of options to choose from, especially when you're browsing our conversion van lot.

With that said, perhaps one of the most intriguing you'll find at our dealership is this nine-passenger 2014 GMC Conversion Van by Southern Comfort .

This van comes loaded with everything and anything you need to haul a large group of folks and here's the kicker...IT'S A DIESEL!!!

In side, you'll find three rows of seats. The front and middle rows each have captain's chairs, while the back row has power sliding and reclining, so it can double as either a sofa or a bed as well.

Built on a GMC 2500 body, this conversion van comes with a gorgeous onyx exterior, complete with a high top roof, LED running lights, and a mesh chrome grill. Underneath the hood you'll find a rear wheel drive engine, but what's really unique is that it has a 6.6L Duramax V8 diesel engine, a rare sight in a landscape increasingly filled with gasoline flex-fuel engines.

Inside this 9-passenger van you'll find huge amount of amenities, so many it might as well be considered a limousine to some. It uses an ebony and brown color scheme, which gives off an air of luxury, complimented by the fact all the seats are premium leather. The front seats also have power lumbar support, seat heaters, and power reclining.

There's also an AM/FM stereo complete with CD player and USB input for MP3 players, and whatever music is played comes out of speakers throughout the vehicle. There's also a rear backup camera to eliminate risky blind spots.

In the back you'll find plenty of entertainment options for those long hours on the road. These include a 31" HDTV complete with DVD and Blu-Ray player, a surround sound system complete with its own subwoofer, multicolor LED accent lighting, an HDMI input, rear and front climate control to keep cool in the summer, and an AC power outlet for whatever you may need.

So when you're in the need for a large van which can hold a ton of people, whether it's for a large family road trip, or for organizations such as schools to transport their sports teams, the 2014 GMC 9-passenger diesel conversion van by Southern Comfort should definitely be on any buyer's short list.

With all this conversion van has to offer, it's not something you're going to regret choosing.

Diehard sports fans spend millions of dollars every year buying tickets to their favorite games and decking out their homes and their bodies with clothing, furniture and other items.

Many fans even have certain rituals that they follow during each game. If they sat in one spot on the couch when their team won, they have to sit in the same spot for each subsequent game. Other fans find that they want to share their pride in their favorite teams with others, and some go the extra mile to let others know how they feel. This is especially true of the fan who immortalized the Chicago Blackhawks in a creative van mural, making it one of the coolest conversion vans on the road.

Professional sports teams now sell the right to use their logos and names on hundreds of products. Fans can deck out their cars with officially licensed seat covers, mud flaps and even steering wheel covers. The van now making its way around Chicago isn't an officially licensed product, but people still stop and stare when they see the van driving down the road.

Chicago has bad luck when it comes to professional teams. While the White Sox and the Bulls never seem to face any problems, teams like the Cubs and the Bears never seem to gain any traction. The Chicago Blackhawks struggled through a few bad seasons before bouncing back with a vengeance. Some thought the team's first Stanley Cup win was a fluke, but the hockey team later won the Cup a second time. Those two wins occurred within just four short years, leading fans to show their love and support in some unique ways. While some are content watching the games in person, the fan driving this van wanted to show his support in a fun and unique way.

Looking like something that just rolled out of the 1970s, this van features the team that won the 2013 Stanley Cup. The driver painted a number of players from that team on the side of his conversion van, including Duncan Keith, Corey Crawford, Jonathon Toews and Andrew Shaw. Witnesses report mixed feelings about the van. While some think it's the best thing they ever saw, others think the fan went a little too far. No matter what people think about the van, it certainly gets them talking.

Those who peer a little closer at the van will find a special message for Detroit Red Wings fans scrawled across the back. The Red Wings and Blackhawks share a long time rivalry, and that message lets fans know exactly where the driver of this van sits on the lines of that rivalry. While in the Chicago area, visitors and locals should keep their eyes peeled for this unique tribute.

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