Dave Arbogast Conversion Vans

for today's video walkthrough, Pat Borton of Dave Arbogast Conversion Vans walks through the all-new 2014 Winnebago Era.

The all-new Winnebago Era offers one of the sleekest exteriors out there and comes with a wide variety of features on the inside.
2014 Winnebago Era Video Walkthrough

For people who are completely devoted to their pet, traveling may come as more of a hassle than a relaxing getaway. Some pet owners opt to leave their animals in a kennel while they travel, whereas others can't even except the idea of leaving their pet in a kennel. The only option for these pet owners is to bring their pet with them or find some trustworthy friend to watch their pet.

Personally, I love bringing my dog wherever I go. I wouldn't even think of leaving her with anyone else, although that may be the only option in some situations. For the most part, all dogs love riding in cars, so why not a conversion van as well?

When traveling with a dog in a conversion van, there are two important things to remember: don't let your dog hang out the window and don't let the dog ride in the front seat. It may be hard for owners to break old habits of having their dogs hanging out the window of the front passenger seat, but it can be highly hazardous for their pup.

The reason it is unsafe for a dog to hang out the window is because there is always the chance of debris flying up and injuring your dog. Moreover, heavy, chilly airflow can be severely detrimental to your dog's respiratory system. This doesn't mean you can't have the window open, though. Just crack the window enough so your dog can take in all the smells of the outside world without endangering his or her health. Most owners are unaware of these facts, but they can be validated by any experienced veterinarian.

Additionally, it is unsafe for dogs to travel in the front passenger seat because of airbags. Although accidents may be few and far between, if a dog is hit by an airbag, it can have devastating consequences. Thus, dogs should primarily sit in the back row, especially if the van is equipped with front airbags.

After the aforementioned safety precautions are addressed, it would be helpful to purchase a restraint harness to ensure that your pooch is maximally safe. A safety harness may not work for every dog breed, especially large breeds, but it is an additional precaution for pet owners that want the best for their pup.

Most harnesses will accommodate the needs of your dog, while simultaneously accommodating the needs of the owner. Common harnesses will attach to the seatbelt, making the set-up extremely quick and easy.

So, to sum it up, if you are planning to take a road trip with your pet in the near future, remember to keep your dog from hanging out the window and traveling in the front seat.

This season, it's tempting to be pulled into a drawn-out, involved costume involving a lot of time and expense, but sometimes it's the simplicity of something like the conversion van themed costume that pulls off the day in a way that's memorable and easy.

In fact, some of your favorite pop culture characters had conversion vans.

Scooby Doo always makes a great costume, something easy to achieve with a conversion van themed costume, and also something classic, impressive, fun, and yet not full of worry or pulling out your hair. When in doubt, fall back on something that is sure to turn heads, ignite the imagination, and also be a quick fit, something you almost can throw on at the very last minute.

Cute, inspirational, and full of creative spark, conversion van themed costumes came into vogue in the late 1970s, replacing homemade makeshift wardrobes into polished costumes that represented kids' dreams. Suddenly, dressing up like Batman or Superman or a member of the A-team was something to aspire to, master, share with others, and live. The distance thus became easy to remove from the loftiness of the archetypal hero: It was suddenly possible to be one, if only play at it for a night.

It's hard to characterize which are best when it comes to conversion van themed costumes; they're not a dime a dozen but neither are they identical, so it takes real imagination and discernment to figure out which to be. Teenage Ninja Turtles are a nice throwback to the early 90s, and they go nicely when dressed up with multiples: like as a team, with shields to boot. Disney's "Cars" movie makes for great conversion van themed costumes, with everything from Lightning McQueen to Mater offered, and for a decent price as well--these are affordable costumes usually, and though they could lack imaginative flair, somehow they don't. Anything that makes kids feel invincible when they don them goes nicely for a holiday about haunting the negative spirits that exist in the world with fun, fashion, imagination, and glitter.

Conversion van themed costumes, though they could appear overly pat or somehow too obvious, are just sometimes the exact right touch because kids tend to feel a connection to the power of the archetype itself--the might of Superman or the humor of McQueen. Kids feel they can put on some speed and go tearing around the neighborhood dressed for whatever it is that might tend to show up. What could be better than that?

A relaxing drive with the family is one of the great benefits of owning a conversion van, but a persistent vibration can quickly ruin the fun. The problem can sometimes be easily resolved by rotating the van’s tires or balancing its wheels, but sometimes the issue is a symptom of a far more serious problem. Vibration is often an issue that creeps up on a conversion van owner. The problem is minor at first, and drivers frequently take no action. However, as the vibration becomes more severe, resolving it becomes more important, and potentially more costly. The goal is to address these issues early to prevent them from ruining the driving experience.

Engine Issues

Sometimes a vibration is caused by an engine that is not running smoothly. This type of vibration is often felt when the engine is taxed during acceleration, or it may only become apparent at a certain speed. In other cases, the van will run fine for a while before the vibration begins. These issues can frequently be remedied by replacing the spark plugs or the spark plug wires. Following the manufacturers recommended service schedule regarding the fuel and air filters will also help.

Axle Issues

Another frequent source of vibrations in a conversion van is an axle that has become damaged. This can happen when the van is involved in a collision, or when it strikes some road debris. Axle related vibrations usually become more severe as the speed of the van increases. These problems can also indicate a bent or distorted driveshaft. The first step for a van owner with these issues is to inspect the constant velocity, or CV, joints. These are accordion shaped rubber boots at the end of the drive axles. The inspection should verify that the rubber is not cracked, that no lubricant is leaking out and that all of the clamps are in place.

Braking Problems

Vibrations that come on suddenly when the brakes are applied are usually a sign that one or more of the brake rotors is warped. Conversion vans are heavy vehicles, and the heat generated by normal wear and tear can easily bend a rotor. When this happens, the brake pads and calipers are unable to get an even grip on the rotor. This is what causes the vibration, which is more pronounced under heavy or emergency braking situations.

Wheel Related Problems

A great deal of vehicle vibration is related to the wheels. This type of vibration is felt through the steering wheel. The first step is to ensure that all of the wheels are fastened securely, and that all lug nuts are sufficiently tightened. The next step is to have the balance of each of the wheels checked. If this does not resolve the issue, owners should next look to the wheel bearings. Although these bearings are supposed to last for the life of the vehicle, heavy use can take a toll.

Tire Problems

Tires are the cause of the majority of vehicle vibrations, and curing the problem is usually straightforward. Vibration that only becomes noticeable at a certain speed is a sign of a tire out of balance. Uneven tire wear can also cause a vibration, which can be cured by a simple tire rotation. Other tire issues, such as a separated tread or a tire out of round, will require the tire or tires to be replaced.

Few would disagree texting while driving can be highly distracting and lead to serious traffic accidents.

With just a few exceptions, most states now have laws on their books where law enforcement can fine a driver who is caught texting while driving.

A total of 47 states enacted laws concerning this leading cause of death for teenaged drivers. In fact, Gizmodo recently put together a great, state-by-state map which displays the penalties one can incur for texting while driving.

It is interesting that Alaska imposes a fine of $10,000 for this offence while four states still have not passed laws against driving while texting.

Montana, South Dakota, Arizona, and South Carolina have not yet enacted laws against this dangerous practice.

New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Mississippi ban texting while driving for new drivers only.

Texas bans texting for new drivers and bus drivers, while Missouri only bans texting for bus drivers.

As one can see, the laws against texting while driving vary greatly from state to state.

The fines paid by those breaking this law vary greatly in those states who have passed these laws.

As mentioned above Alaska is the worst with the fine being $10,000, and California the lowest fine of $20. A person traveling and not knowing the anti-texting laws for each state may very easily learn a very expensive lesson.

It is estimated that roughly 25 percent of all traffic accidents are caused by drivers reading or sending text messages.

There are now companies who sell a service to parents and fleet owners that will disable texting on the drivers phone while the vehicle is in motion. Passengers in the vehicle are free to send and receive text messages, but the driver can't do so. Any attempt by the driver to block or eliminate the text message restriction on his or her phone will send a notice to the parent or the fleet administrator.

This type service would give parents some peace of mind when their teenagers are out driving. I suspect that, like the seat belt laws, the no texting while driving laws will soon be on the books in every state.

The 2014 Pleasure Way Pursuit Class B motorhome is slightly smaller than most in the class, but it is not short on luxury. It provides the finer things in life for a trip on the open road. The manufacturer has spent a great deal of time making this vehicle both stylish, functional, and full of quality. Here is a closer look at the Class B Pursuit.

Interior

Three things make the Pursuit different than the rest. To begin, there is a low entry step, an electric awning, and a master control panel immediately to the left of entry. There is also a solid fiberglass roof, which takes away the potential for leaks. The maple interior woodwork adds to the decor, which gives it an upscale feeling. This motor home does not lack in entertainment. It offers a 32 inch television that lets everyone watch streaming video. There is also a Blue Ray player with built-in WiFi.

Room Layout

This motor home is laid out in a way that flows well. The private bathroom with full porcelain toilet is a big bonus. There is also a full shower, mirror, and plenty of storage.

There is a fully functional kitchen as well. This area contains a spice center with solid counter tops. The recessed sink and two burner stove enhance the functionality without taking up too much room. There is also a double door refrigerator and convection microwave oven as well.

The back of the motor home is where passengers sleep and dine. At night, the seats can be folded out into a memory foam bed. The newest option is a tri-fold electric sofa. With the touch of one button, this will convert into a queen sized bed. There is also a tabletop that folds up. This entire space is contained between tinted windows with shades.

Exterior

The inside is not the only part of the Pursuit that attracts customers. The outside electric awning and multiple storage compartments make it great for a campsite. The batteries and tools are easy to reach. On the roof, there is a 13,500 BTU air conditioner. There is also a 4,000 watt generator that can be reached from the driver's side.

Additional Features

This motor home comes with multiple high tech features. There is a rearview camera, power locks, and a Clarion sound system. Many people will want transportation with a reasonable fuel economy, and this unit delivers. It is essential to receive between 10 and 12 mpg.

The Pleasure Way Pursuit is a Class B motor home that delivers function and luxury. The defining characteristic is its great size. At 22 feet, this unit is large enough to fit a family, but it is not as intimidating as a Class A design. It is a practical and stylish way to travel.

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Ohio in the fall is definitely a site to behold. When the trees in the Buckeye state decide it's time to put on their fall colors, it's usually a sign fall festivals and other seasonal events are about to begin. Lets face it. There is no better way to hit the Buckeye than in a conversion van either. Perfect for weekend road trips, conversion vans offer more space to bring along friends and family.

So what are some of Ohio's hotspots to check out this Fall season?

Fall Foliage Trains

At the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway visitors can take a 22 mile train ride thru the Appalachian foothills passing historic company towns, a canal lock, and of course see all the colorful fall foliage along the way. Step back in time at Robbins Crossing where visitors have a chance to experience the rich history of Appalachia. Regular train fare applies and shopping can be done at the Gift Shop and Train Store.

Ohio Renaissance Festival

Beginning at the end of August and running until mid October, Ohio's Renaissance Festival is a fall event not to be missed. Located in Ohio's Warren County, near the township of Lebanon, 30 empty acres are transformed into a 16th century English village. Complete with jousting, sword fights, turkey legs, and mead visitors can bow before a king, and browse through the period shops. It is well worth the drive.

Harvest Moon Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

During September and October, the South western Ohio farm invites everyone to come out and visit their 22 acre corn maze. This working family owned farm, located in Liberty, Ohio, opens their gates for visitors to enjoy not only the impressive maze but also hay rides, picnics, and their own barnyard animals.

Haunted Hayride and Black Bog

Fall also means Halloween, and a trip to Lebanon, Ohio and the 30 minute hayride through 50 acres of gorgeous, natural woodlands. After touring the spooky trails, sit down by the campfire for chilling ghost stories and the concession stand. Find the perfect pumpkin to carve, and if you are feeling brave enough, take a tour of the Black Bog.

Zoar Village's Lantern Tours of the Ghosts

In Zoar, visitors can take a guided ghost tour. Walk through the historic communal village, listening to tales of the German Separatists who settled here. Stay overnight and see the fall colors in the morning light. The village is open September thru October by reservation only.

These are just a few of the great fall activities going on in Ohio. Plan a weekend or a day trip and see the beauty of Ohio in the fall.

Few conversion van owners, or drivers for that matter, are aware that the gasoline bought in the summer is quite different from the blend that comes from gas stations in the winter. Interestingly, the composition of gasoline sold in the winter months is chemically distinct and costs less to produce. It is for this reason that gas prices tend to sink in the colder months.

The topic of differently blended gasoline has not made true headlines until recently with the publicity in California from statements made by Governor Jerry Brown. Brown suggested that the increased use of winter-blend gasoline would help the state lower gas prices, which have exceeded those in most other states in the country.

There are at least 20 different blends of gasoline sold around the country due to the differences in regulations in each state. The reason why so many different blends exist is due to the efforts of refineries to reduce the appearance of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from gasoline when it's sent through an internal combustion engine.

One of the reasons why smog tends to occur more frequently in the summer is because VOC levels increase in hotter weather. Gasoline is graded based upon its Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) level, and to prevent VOC levels from rising out of control in the summer, gasoline blends are modified to reduce how many VOCs are released into the atmosphere.

To prevent gasoline from behaving abnormally during the summer, it must be blended at a particularly low RVP level, which is measured by a PSI level. Normal atmospheric pressure sits at 14.7 PSI, but summer gasoline blends must sit somewhere between 9.0 PSI and 7.8 PSI. These numbers are mandated by the federal government and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Each state tends to have a separate timeline for introducing winter blends of gasoline, and the average PSI also differs by region. Different schedules create different prices across the country. Because creating gas that has a lower RVP costs more, summer gasoline tends to be more expensive. The increase in the amount of butane used during the winter, which evaporates more quickly, makes gas mileage suffer. However, the lower price of winter gasoline does tend to offset the loss in fuel economy.

Although the drop in demand for gasoline in the colder months does tend to influence lower gas prices, the primary reason for the drop in cost is the different blend. Refineries spend less money to produce winter gasoline, and as a result motorists receive a small break on gas prices. Likewise, the savings due to the increase in fuel economy during the summer is absorbed by higher average prices at the pump.

That's right.

We now have Customizers Conversion Vans available for sale on the lot. Even more, we're the only GMC van dealer to be working with Customizers.

For those who aren't familiar with the brand, the Customizers Luxury Travel Vans line features seven to nine passenger custom vans. Customizers' vans that are specially crafted to bring travellers more room than most custom van products; purchasers of Customizers Luxury Travel Vans gain about 40 percent more usable space than they would have acquired in a large sports utility vehicle (SUV) or minivan. There is also plenty of room for hanging garments and sports equipment while comfortably seating the maximum amount of adult passengers. Additionally, these luxury vans typically cost up to $15,000 less than their SUV counterparts.

It's not just the configuration of the seating which makes these conversion vans stand out from other van lines. The type of seating in Customizers Luxury Travel Vans is also an important part of the luxury travel van package. Swivelling, reclining seats which elevate passengers' legs give the ultimate in comfort. Some models even feature power adjusted, heated seats. Also, the Customizers Luxury Travel Vans line incorporates an entertainment platform that accommodates the latest technology products like gaming, movies, and music products on state of the art flat screen displays and crisp audio systems.

If you're in the market for a great conversion van at an affordable price, a Customizers Conversion Van goes the extra mile.

Your conversion van isn't limited to spring and summer travel. Fall is one of the best times to take a road trip. Most tourists are back at home with children starting school and temperatures are dropping. Take advantage of the empty sights and sleep in the comfort of your own van as you discover the outdoors.

Grand Canyon

Although it may seem like a cliche, the Grand Canyon is a perfect place to visit in the fall because you don't have to fight the crowds. With limited visitors and sweltering heat subsiding, reserve a camping site to secure a good parking spot as you discover this National Park in the morning. The autumn sunlight strikes the canyon at differing angles, making this vacation a picture perfect choice.

San Diego

If you are holding onto summer, drive down to San Diego. With warm temperatures well into November, you can discover the local beaches and seaside amusement park without huge crowds. Visit the zoo or walk around the downtown district for evening music and entertainment. Conversion vans can park in designated parking or camping areas when it is time for some rest.

Yellowstone National Park

Reserve a camping spot in Yellowstone during the early fall. With Old Faithful erupting well before winter sets in, you can sit in a front-row seat free from large crowds. You'll be able to ask the rangers many questions as you immerse yourself in nature. Take a tour around Yellowstone in your conversion van. The park is extremely large, allowing you to drive for miles in comfort while exploring its borders.

Fall In Ohio
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Visit Columbus or Dayton, Ohio to see the leaves change color. From striking reds to deep browns, Ohio offers some of the best fall foliage around. Enjoy Columbus's vibrant downtown at night or visit Dayton's aviation museum by day. With the cool, crisp air, Ohio offers many camping sites among the fall foliage, making this vacation destination perfect for conversion vans.

Key West, Florida

Take one of the most unique drives of your life to Key West, Florida. As you drive through the Florida Keys, you'll find Key West at the very end of the freeway. Find a seaside camping site and enjoy the warm, tropical weather. Bask in the sunshine and visit the local shops on foot to get a taste of this unusual destination.

International Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque, New Mexico holds a yearly event with hundreds of balloons gracing the skies. Reserve your camping area early in the year to see hot air balloons rise from the ground in an electrifying scene.

Conversion vans give you the freedom of bringing home with you without driving a bus down the road. Gas up your van and head out into the fall sunlight for exciting events throughout the country.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, many are contemplating long road trips to reunite with far flung family.

The prospect of a long haul on the highway can be rather daunting, especially for those with children. Nothing can make a long drive more of an ordeal than bored and impatient kids. If you are lucky enough to have a conversion van, there are some good strategies for avoiding the boredom and making the miles and the hours fly by.

Most conversion vans, even low tops, provide plenty of space for a smorgasbord of electronic distractions. With flat screen technology, televisions can be easily installed in tight quarters. A few good movies for the folks in the back can really help pass the time. Nowadays the choices in entertainment systems are pretty extensive, and you will likely want to have not only a DVD player, but also a gaming console. If the kids tire of watching movies, they can switch over to the game system and blast their way through those dull miles. You can even create a gaming center in your conversion van!

One of the beauties of a conversion van is the spacious interior. In this arena no car can compete with a full-sized conversion van. If your van has captain's chairs and a table, you have the luxury of going low-tech with your entertainment and playing old-fashioned card or board games. Aside from the lower volume, which the driver will appreciate, such diversions would be preferable for those who tend to get a bit carsick while watching a screen in a moving vehicle. Having the passengers gather around the table to play cards or a board game can also be a better bonding experience than simply watching a movie or playing video games.

A conversion van also affords one the option of camping out along the way without the super high gas bill of an RV. If you plan on a trip that takes more than one day and want to avoid the cost of a hotel room, just find a good camping park on your route. For families who love the outdoors, this gives you the opportunity to combine a little camping expedition with your holiday road trip. Many conversion vans come especially outfitted with all you will need: mini-fridge, sink, or even a propane stove. Some also offer awnings or enclosed tents that can be attached to the passenger side of the van so you can really open up the living space.

Turn that road trip into an adventure. Traveling in a conversion van allows for lots of possibilities not available in a regular car. The miles will zip by once you have banned boredom and turned travel time into family time.

If you are a diehard shopper, you already know Black Friday is rapidly approaching and your Christmas gift desires will be available for the lowest prices you could ever hope to find on that Friday right after the Thanksgiving day holiday. Hordes of people wait in line outside in freezing cold weather for days to get a shot at that low-priced big screen television or the must-have video game system of the year. However, if you have a conversion van, you have a huge advantage over all the rest of those shoppers and a much better chance of getting all those great deals just for yourself.

Conversion vans come fully equipped with a bed, a kitchen, a bathroom and many other amenities, so load it up with some warm bedding and food and take off to your shopping destination. You can easily arrive as many days ahead of time as you wish, grab the best parking place in the lot and prepare to be one of the first people in line. You can be sitting in your warm van sipping hot chocolate while the rest of the shoppers freeze to death in front of the store.

The conversion van is great if you plan on making large purchases. You can dart into the store, purchase the item on sale and lock it safely away in the van before returning to your shopping. That leaves you with no worries about trying to lug big items around. Multiple small purchases can be taken out to the safety of the van as well. This year your back doesn't have to hurt no matter how many stores there are in the mall.

In recent years, merchants have stretched Black Friday into a multiple day event, so you may also want to go to different stores in different towns to find your various items. The conversion van will let you ride in comfort and actually enjoy your shopping trip. You will have no need to waste any of your Christmas money on expensive food courts or restaurants as you can cook up your meals right in the van.

So grab your friends or significant other for the purpose of driving, carrying packages and a little companionship and head out in your conversion van for what should be the best holiday shopping trip you have ever experienced. This Christmas, all of your loved ones are going to get everything they asked for.

When an RV manufacturer first ventures into making a new model, the results can be mixed at first.

Typically, some time is needed to get a feel for the design and to work out all of the kinks. This common expectation is not the case, however, for Pleasure-Way Industries Limited. The Canadian-based producer of RVs and motorhomes has come out with a resounding success for their first Class B Plus design.

The all-new 2014 Pleasure Way Pursuit sets the bar high for vehicles of this size and weight, delivering outstanding amenities and durable design in every aspect.

The release of the Class B Plus motorhome was a long time coming for this well-established company. They developed the design for the Pursuit based on years of feedback from valued customers who have already taken advantage of the quality RV models which have produced in the past. The Pursuit is a Class B Plus motorhome which is slightly larger than your average Class-B motorhome in terms of dimensions and interior space. This model is meant to fill the needs of customers who are looking for just a little bit more in an RV without wanting to make the full transition up to the next class of vehicles.

Using the well-respected Ford E350 Chassis as its base, the Pursuit rolls out 22 feet of comfort and luxury while still maintaing respectable gas mileage. The construction is completely solid, as one would expect from this Canadian manufacturer. It is built using fiberglass in conjunction with a full-steel cage. The roof is made entirely from one piece of fiberglass, ensuring that no leaks will present problems over time. Every detail down to the paint job itself emphasizes the luxury and unique design that makes the Pursuit the gem that it is.

The interior continues to impress as one places their eyes on the maple, hardwood finishes. The moldings are custom-fitted, and all of the woods are solid material. The seating spares no element of design elegance, featuring plush leather seating in the rear of the home. Additionally, no element of the space is sacrificed for the visual sake of another. Even the bathroom is impressive beyond expectations. It features ample room, a skylight, cabinetry, a vanity area, and corner shower to top things off. The standard features for this motorhome are just as enticing as the space that first greets you on the interior. It comes with a standard backing camera, iPod and USB connections, a Blue Ray player, Wifi connections, and a six-foot, stainless steel refrigerator. All the comforts of your home on solid ground have been elegantly laid out in your home on four wheels.

Class B campers, also known as conversion vans, continue to be popular with avid campers who favor comfort and convenience. Dave Arbogast Van Depot continues to be a leading dealer in this booming market. There are several good reasons why so many people favor Class B motohrhomes and choose to purchase their campers from Dave Arbogast.

What is a Class B Camper?

A Class B camper is made from the body of a typical passenger van. This makes it fairly easy to drive and park in a normal parking space. However, the interior of the van is outfitted with everything that you would expect to find insider of a luxurious camper. This includes beds, a dining area, kitchen facilities, and even restrooms. Sometimes the roof is raised to make it easier for occupants to stand up inside the van.

Why Buy Conversion Vans From Dave Arbogast?

Dave Arbogast has grown his business by offering a large selection of high-quality new and used vans. The dealership also concentrates on customer service and customer satisfaction, and this is one of the major reasons that Van Depot has thrived for so long.

Since you can select a new or used Class B camper, you can find plenty of different makes and models on the lot at any time. Some of the popular models include:

Airstream Interstate
Winnebago Era
Roadtrek 190 Popular
Class B Plus version of the Pursuit by Pleasure Way

In addition to Class B motorhome sales, Dave Arbogast also offers other services that camper van owners depend upon. These include a van service department and a van parts department. If you need anything from your van's fluids checked to the interior repaired, you can count on fast and reliable service from the well-trained service department. It can be hard to find some parts for conversion vans, but the professional staff in the parts department can probably help you out.

Van Depot is located in Troy Ohio, and this is a few minutes from the Dayton International Airport. However, the company delivers vans all over the United States. If would rather travel to Troy to select your Class B camper in person, the company will even pick you up at the airport. You might even be able to come in the morning and drive your new van home by afternoon.

Do you want a camper? Class B motorhomes are a sensible choice. You can depend upon Dave Arbogast Van Depot to help you find the perfect one.

There are many different styles of aluminum wheels on Class B motorhomes these days.

While traveling, these wheels get dirty, stained, nicked and scratched. You can restore your wheel’s shine by following a few simple steps. The easiest way to work on aluminum wheels is to remove them from the vehicle; in the case of RV’s such as motorhomes, this is not always easy or practical. You will have to work on the wheels where they are.

Gather your materials together. You will need plenty of soft, lint-free cloths, a bucket or two, aluminum cleaner, aluminum polish, aluminum brightener, a fine metal file, scouring pads, a fine brush or old toothbrush, a soft scrub brush and soap. You will also need protective gloves and eyewear, oven cleaner and scouring pads made for non-stick cookware. You can use the same type of soap you use on the RV.

Begin by washing the wheels with copious amounts of water and soap. Scrub every nook and cranny, using the brushes and toothbrush to do a thorough job. Once dry, apply oven cleaner to the wheels and allow to sit for 20 minutes. Be sure to use the protective gear. You can use cleaner that is not lye based for added safety. Repeat this step for especially grimy wheels and rinse thoroughly. Allow the wheels to dry.

Inspect the wheels for pitting, scratches or gouges. You can remove pitting and scratches by using fine metal sandpaper or the metal file. You should test this on part of your wheels not facing the road. If you are unsure about this step, a tire shop can do it for you. Clean the wheels again when they are finished.

Apply the aluminum brightening cleaner to the wheels using a soft cloth. Make sure you clean the entire surface, cleaning all the nooks and crannies. Wipe the cleaner off with a second soft cloth. Using a clean, soft cloth, apply the aluminum polish and work in one direction. Use a toothbrush or fine brush to polish small, curved or hard to reach areas. Take your time with this step. Wipe off the polish with another clean, soft cloth.

Apply a finishing polish to the wheels and again, work in smooth, even strokes going in the same direction. Rub with another cloth to remove the polish completely. The polish will shine brighter as you rub with the cloth.

If the wheels were removed from the vehicle, replace them now. As you clean and polish your wheels, you have the advantage of noticing excess damage, cracks or other issues that could affect your safety on the road. Be sure to clean any spills off the wheels as soon as possible to prevent the material from reacting with the aluminum.

As a miniature home on wheels, your conversion van has almost everything you need for a fun vacation. If you travel during the winter, it's always good to have a winter survival kit on hand. Blizzard conditions, slick roads or a basic flat tire can leave you stranded for hours. Add a few key items into your van to survive comfortably in almost any emergency.

Food And Water

You don't need to haul a dozen food cans in your car. Fill a large, plastic bag with non-perishable items. Energy bars, candy bars, granola bars, raisins and nuts are all good choices for a survival kit. Don't forget the water. Add a case of bottled water to your van to keep everyone hydrated.

First Aid Kit

Antiseptic, gauze, bandages and a cold press are all smart additions to any first aid kit. Even add a pocket knife to cut material, if necessary. If anyone is bleeding, a first aid kit may save their life.

Flares And Whistle

If you are in distress, gaining anyone's attention is crucial to rapid rescue and recovery. Place flares and a whistle in your survival kit. Use both warning signals together to attract law enforcement help.

Keep Warm

Add extra gloves, socks and hats to your kit to keep everyone warm. Keeping a blanket on hand is another way to warm up. You can cuddle beneath the blanket for warmth as body heat creates an oasis from the cold. Dry matches and candles are a smart kit selection as well. You can use them to light your van, and heat it slightly, to avoid wasting your battery's charge.

Tools

A windshield scraper gets that pesky ice off of the glass for better vision. If you cannot see well, you may have an accident on dark, winter nights. Bring a shovel as well. If you find your van sinking into some thick snow, the shovel is there to release the tires before they are sucked any lower.

Where To Put It All

Conversion vans have many hidden storage areas. Place your kit under a bed or seat. Find an open cabinet for easy access. You do not want to put it in a locked box or outside compartment. If the area is damaged or frozen, you cannot open the space for the critical items. Place some of the items in a glove compartment for quick access as well.

Keep as many items as possible in your conversion van to survive a cold winter day and night. Accidents happen everyday and you want to be the one that avoids any dire problems, from frostbite to dehydration.

The next era of console gaming is here! The Xbox One and the PS4 will be fighting for your hard-earned money this holiday season, and this just begs the question, "Which one is best?"

There have been tons of reviews about this question. However, not many people have looked at which system would be best installed in a conversion van. After all, both systems were designed with the idea of being used in the living room, so which one makes the jump to being “portable” the best? Let's find out!

Pricing

In terms of pricing, the PS4 has the edge here. Not only is the system $100 cheaper at $399, but the PS4 does not lose as much in the move from the living room to your van. The Xbox One has already lost one of its biggest selling points, and that is the fact that it is supposed to be hooked up to your cable box. If you do not have the system set up in your living room, you can't very well hook it up to your cable or Internet. As such, the ability to use a ton of the Xbox One features are null and void. These are features you are paying an extra $100!

Games

In terms of available games, the Xbox One has a slight edge. That being said, it really depends on what kind of games you are into. Some of the Xbox One exclusives that are out right now include "Dead Rising 3," "Forza 5" and "Ryse." The PS4, on the other hand, has "Killzone: Shadow Fall," "Resogun" and "Knack." Both consoles have great lineups of third-party games that include "Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag" and "Call of Duty: Ghosts."

Style

In terms of style, the PS4 has the edge here as well. The system can be played both vertically and horizontally. On top of that, the PS4 is just slightly smaller than the Xbox One. If you are trying to install this in your conversion van, a slightly smaller size is easier to work with. That goes double if you have the ability to play it horizontally or vertically. Also, the Xbox One has a classic VCR look going on. The PS4 has a sleek design with a blue light that runs down the body of the console. It just looks good and screams next generation.

Verdict:

Taking two out of the three categories we talked about today, the winner has to be the PS4. The cheaper price tag and better design give it the edge. There is no point in paying an extra $100 for the Xbox One if you cannot use all of the features that you are paying for. Also, the PS4 has a great lineup of games just around the corner. At that point, the whole "games" category that we talked about may swing either way.

Every so often, the conversion van community is provided with a great article about the history of custom vans.

Today, Jalopnik.com posted a great article/photopost, "What America's Tax Income Has to do With Seventies Custom Vans" on their website.

The link provides some awesome vintage photos of custom vans and is definitely worth checking out if you're a true "old-school" fan of conversion vans.

Larger vehicles are often designed with harsh winter conditions in mind, but there's nothing better than a good dose of prevention to keep your vehicle out of harm's way.

Here is a list of several things you can do to prep your conversion van for the winter.

1. Get the right oil change.

Oil changes are always necessary with any type of vehicle, but cold temperatures will cause oil to thicken up. Engines have a harder time with thick oil because of increased difficulty to lubricate the engine's parts. Just before the temperatures are scheduled to drop, be sure to get a quality oil change.

2. Monitor your battery and keep it clean.

The colder months don't exactly have the best effect on vehicle batteries. Corrosion is more likely, and the battery may have a harder time holding a charge than it would in normal, neutral temperatures. Check your battery before winter sets in, and be sure to clean away any corrosion that you see.

3. Keep track of the condition of hoses and belts under the hood.

The rubber and plastic in belts and hoses only grow more fragile and bitter as time wears on, and icy water and road salt coming into contact with them surely don't make matters any better. Inspect your hoses and belts before winter hits to avoid driving with a fractured/broken belt or leaky hose.

4. Stay on top of your tire pressure.

Your tires offer the traction you need to stay on the roads during icy conditions. A tire's air pressure can drop by 1 PSI per every 10 degrees, and this can have an incredible impact on how well your van can handle intense conditions. Find out how much pressure you need for your type of tires and try to keep the levels consistent with it.

5. Check your engine coolant.

Be sure to keep antifreeze filled in your van. A half and half mixture of antifreeze and water is also highly unlikely to freeze under incredibly low temperatures, so you can also save money by not using as much antifreeze solution in your engine.

6. Test your four wheel drive.

Four wheel drive is pertinent for any large vehicle during the winter, so it's a good idea to make sure yours is functioning properly before snowy and icy conditions take place.

7. Don't forget a winter survival kit!

No matter what type of vehicle you plan to travel in during winter weather, it's always a good idea to have a winter survival kit on hand just in case of an emergency.

8. Lastly, get acquainted with the van's manual and service schedule.

Many conversion van manuals come with particular instructions for colder climates and temperatures, and you should with your own before making any further accommodations. The manual will also disclose advice for how frequent you should be having your conversion van serviced, so be sure to adhere to its recommendations.

f you're one of the lucky folks out there who owns a conversion van, you already know how useful they can be for everything from moving large household furniture, to being utilized as a mobile home or office. The possibilities truly feel endless! And when the holidays come around, your friends and family will be green as a Grinch with jealousy over how much room you have for packing that conversion van with all manner of gifts and goodies. Now let's say you have a large stable of friends and family to buy presents for this holiday season. What's the best way to utilize your conversion van and basically turn it into Santa's mobile sleigh? Read on for some tips and tricks!

The first thing that you'll want to do, particularly if any of your gifts have surfaces with the potential for scratches, dings, or could be marred in any way, is to place a soft layer of padding on the floor of your conversion van. This padding could be something as simple and straight-forward as moving blankets (often found at places like U-Haul or Ryder), or you can opt for actual padding, such as a large mattress pad or memory foam topper that's been cut to fit the unique dimensions of your conversion van. The important thing is just to ensure that there's some kind of buffer to prevent the friction of your moving vehicle from causing any damage to your holiday wares. If any of your gifts are large or cumbersome, it's important to pack these items in your van with care, especially if the might have the propensity for falling over or shifting in transit. Think of your conversion van as a moving truck. How would you transport your cherished home items with care from point A to point B, ensuring that everything arrives intact? Particularly long and/or tall items can be laid on their side and buffered with softer items or padding. Heavier items should always be allocated to closer to the floor of your van, so they get the most benefit from the padding and you won't risk crushing any of your more delicate items. If your gifts are being wrapped in colorful papers and ribbons and are more of the box-shaped present variety, even better! Discovery Channel's "Mythbusters" show recently did a segment on whether men have a better spatial ability to pack a car than a woman, and in their tests, the theory was marginally proven. So ladies, make sure you get a man to do all the heavy lifting and packing for you. (Just kidding!) In all seriousness, the most important factors to ensure that your gifts are packed safely and securely into your conversion van is to minimize shifting during transit by stacking like-sized items together and utilizing padding in-between rows or stacks to help preserve delicate bows and the structural shape of your items. A box of jewelry on top of a "Beers of the World" sampler is a good idea, but please, not the other way around! Finally, utilize the assembly line method to make your gift-packing go as quickly and smoothly as possible. It's a good rule of thumb to either start with cumbersome and/or oddly shaped items and work around them, or to arrange your packages from heaviest to lightest and work from there.

Remember, pack your presents tightly and securely, but take care to preserve their good looks with padding or protective wrapping as needed. Have a happy and van-tastic holiday season!

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