Can't wait to hit the road!

katelyn · Jan 6, 2011

Hi everyone, I've been dreaming of living in a van for a year now and I just purchased a 97 Dodge Ram Van and I am sooooo excited to leave! I've gotten a routine tune up, and getting brakes next month, but does anyone have any other suggestions on what else I should get done before I leave? <img src="https://vanlivingforum.com/images/boards/smilies/wave.gif" align="absmiddle" border="0">   Thanks!

driverdan · Jan 6, 2011

That is great you are about to go on a new journey. I live in Vermont for 6 mths. and S. Florida for 6 mths. I was lucky enough to find driving jobs that I can do in both states. Plus I metal detect as well. Now about your van. Make sure that all of your fluids, such as transmission, antifreeze, power steering, and brake fluids are not burnt, contaminated and are up to date. These are very important preventitive measures and cheap insurance. I am a mechanic and always keep up with my fluids and additives. I also use lube guard in my tranny and power steering unit. Brake fluid is very important as it will absorb water over time, thus rusting the inside of your brake components. You will also want to carry spare fuses and bulbs. Always carry duct tape and 2 gal. of extra water. I joined a gym for showers. I am a gym goer anyway so this was perfect.  I have a 92 chevy g20 high top mark lll conversion that I have redone the entire inside complete with a secondary power source to run the microwave, crockpot, toaster, tv, surround system, and other misc. power units. Any way hope this has been helpful. If you have any more questions please feel free to ask anytime.  Hope you have an awsome trip and you are always safe. Daniel

katelyn · Jan 9, 2011

Thanks!!

akrvbob · Jan 10, 2011

If you aren't familiar with what your fluids should look and smell like, your best bet is to just change all the normal fluids. It will cost you some money but will give you the piece of mind that they are all clean and fresh. Plus you can put them on a schedule of when to change them. When you are getting your tune-up, ask them to specifically check the serpintine belt. You don't want that breaking in the middle of nowhere. Next, your tires could be old and dangerous even though they have good tread left. Take it to a tire shop and ask them to tell you when your tires were made. There is a code on every tire that tells them. You can figure it out for yourself but I don't remember how. Above everything else, have fun!! Bob

Pikachu711 · Sep 2, 2012

katelynn, here's a link to tell you how to check the date your tires were made: <a href="http://www.ehow.com/how_6129841_check-year-tires-were-made.html">http://www.ehow.com/how_6129841_check-year-tires-were-made.html</a> Hopefully this will help you out.

sidat202 · Sep 2, 2012

Hi Katelynn, Glad to have you with us. I would also suggest you carry extra belts and radiator hoses if possible. They are small and dont take much room. And purchase a small tool kit with basic wrenches and screw drivers. A hammer, adjustable wrench and pliers are always handy to have. You might also consider a road side service if you dont have one already. Hope this helps, and see ya down the road.

Seraphim · Sep 2, 2012

U do realize this thread is a year and a half old... Lol

sidat202 · Sep 2, 2012

Ha, I didnt see the date. Well its still good information.

Guest · Sep 2, 2012

Hahahaha,,,,nope, I didn't....never looked...just responded as did Pikachu...crapola, Katelynn may have a different rig by now....<img src="/images/boards/smilies/rofl.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" /> Bri

mockturtle · Sep 2, 2012

When I bought my RV and my Honda [about the same time] I had the batteries and tires replaced.  Expensive, yes, but gave me a lot of peace of mind. BTW, I'm thrilled for you starting on your new adventure!  <img src="/images/boards/smilies/smile.gif" alt="" align="absmiddle" border="0" />