BTW, there 2 types of campers. One group sets up camp and brings just about everything they own outside and scatters it around the camp. The other group, me included, brings out only a bit. In my case, old folding deck chair and small wooden table, plus another tiny folding chair. Then I leave these to mark my camp when I take off for the day. Nothing worth stealing.
Roamin' Ruby in da house (err driveway)
- Thread starter SheketEchad
- Start date
Help Support Van Living Forum:
SheketEchad
Well-known member
I've been wondering about that, considering my solar panels are all portable, and if I'll have to lug them back into the van every night like I am doing now. I guess I could look at it as my on-the-road gym membership, but it would be nice to think I could just leave them set up when boondocking, or even in a campsite, without someone trying to walk away with them. I doubt I'd leave for a day; at least I plan to be prepared when landing at camp so I can stay a while. Although on a weekend, if there are hiking trails nearby, I might avail myself of those for a couple of hours so I'd be absent but not the van.
And there is a moth by my solar light...what is UP with the stink bug invasion too? Four or five times a day I have to flick them off the screening. Someone said they were going extinct - I think they all moved to my yard!
And there is a moth by my solar light...what is UP with the stink bug invasion too? Four or five times a day I have to flick them off the screening. Someone said they were going extinct - I think they all moved to my yard!
Yeah, I forgot to mention the solar panel. I only have one 100W panel and put it out in the daytime. Sometimes I leave it all night, but it depends on how I feel about my neighbors and how far away they are. I would never leave it sitting out for the day while I'm gone. Too hard to replace when I'm in the boondocks. I only run lights and my laptop using an inverter, so a single 100W panel is plenty.
Moths are attracted by "flickering" lights. They can see 60 Hz AC flickering which is above the "human flicker-fusion frequency" (20 Hz), and it attracts them. That's why all the bugs are flying around your porch light at home in the summer. Your solar light may have some sort of AC electronics in it.
Moths are attracted by "flickering" lights. They can see 60 Hz AC flickering which is above the "human flicker-fusion frequency" (20 Hz), and it attracts them. That's why all the bugs are flying around your porch light at home in the summer. Your solar light may have some sort of AC electronics in it.
B and C said:
How do you like that table for cooking? I have a similar one from ALPS engineering, but I haven't left on my adventure yet, so I haven't used it yet. It seems very sturdy and light.
SheketEchad said:I wish I knew how or even if, I could do that wooden wall mounted table - that's the shnizzle there. There is a nice thick wooden window frame it might could be attached to, hmmm. May have to hit up the handy neighbor and see if he's willing to attempt that. Since the bottom brace holds the table off from the wall a bit, that might circumvent the little bulge/well thing that is right in the wall there. I could have TWO tables, one for inside and one for outside. And also a money tree to carry with me when I go so that I will always have money for these nifty things
Love all of the ideas - y'all have already worked out the bugs and kinks that I am just discovering, so I appreciate the experienced input.
Your van looks amazing. What a blessing to get one that looks that good and has so much of the work done already! When I first got back to America in July, my cousin insisted that I should do a van build, and I did consider it at first, but I realized I didn't want to spend that much time and effort on building out a van. So I opted for a truck camper. If I had found one like yours, with a lot of the work and cabinetry done, I might have thought hard about it.
I am very happy with the Lagun table system I just installed in my camper: https://vanlifeessentials.com/products/lagun-rv-table-system
It mounts on a vertical surface and can raise and lower and swing out of the way, and you can put any table top on it. Mine has a standard RV dinette table top.
B and C
Well-known member
It is sturdy, light and packs small. I do worry about the bungee cords when I use it for cooking so usually use my cutting board as a heat dissipator. I have another table that is Formica topped that I use mostly but it only folds flat and not as small as the roll top. Packed with stuff on top of it too.MG1912 said:
SheketEchad
Well-known member
That's very snazzy too! About the only place I'd have a vertical mount would be on the storage box in the back. I need a second job for all of these cool things out there, lol.MG1912 said:
Thank you, re: the van. It appears to have some engine trouble, so I'll know next week how good of a 'deal' it was :/ Got a little DIY lead I am going to try tomorrow before I hit the road for my first excursion (relatively close to home in case I have to be towed!)
SheketEchad
Well-known member
I wish I could get by with just a 100W panel. By my reckoning, I'm consuming about 400-800 watts a day with work computer, person computer, charging cell phone, headsets and running a fan. My personal laptop is very old, so it's a power hog. The work laptop only has to charge for about 4 hours total a day to last all day and over night.Qxxx said:
Guess I'll be hauling my panels in and out then!
SheketEchad
Well-known member
I believe I solved my engine problems by researching and reaching out to all of the males and one ex parts person female I know to verify info. We'll see how it goes! Apparently the head gasket was either leaking or had blown. I treated it with Bar's Head gasket repair after talking to someone I personally know who had used it with great success. All evidence appears positive post administration. I'll be in FL in November so if it shows any further issues at that time, I'll pop into my mechanic down there and have him take a look further. If all else fails, i have a relative in the auto salvage business and I'll just pull an engine and drop a replacement in - cheaper than a disassembly to repair the head gasket would be!
Buster1903
Well-known member
Hey SheketEchad
Nice rig!
Looks like you are well on you way to having it fully equipped. I agree with the others it looks like who ever did the build did a good solid job. I hope your mechanical Issues are minor and you can get them all cleared up. You could have a good looking and reliable van.
Good luck with it all. and Maybe see you in Nov. Hopefully I'll get good and chilled in Vermont and come looking for some warmer weather.
Nice rig!
Looks like you are well on you way to having it fully equipped. I agree with the others it looks like who ever did the build did a good solid job. I hope your mechanical Issues are minor and you can get them all cleared up. You could have a good looking and reliable van.
Good luck with it all. and Maybe see you in Nov. Hopefully I'll get good and chilled in Vermont and come looking for some warmer weather.
SheketEchad
Well-known member
So I am out on excursion two, moving into TN/KY and cooler temps. This is a beautiful campground by Cummins Falls, but it was really difficult to get to after dark (for me at least) I can't imagine anyone pulling a trailer or driving a full size RV going down the roads that I did. I wonder if there is another, less stressful access road, lol. It was very dark, narrow and went up and down a lot with sharp curves. Maybe it was a test. I did not like it in the rain 
The spaces are also very close together, which is different from my first outing near home.
Ruby did great on the highway, no overheating since I poured the engine fairy dust into it, decent gas mileage (haven't taken pencil to paper to get actuals) and really gave me peace of mind on my first 500 plus trip. However, since I have always traveled on flat land, this uppy downy stuff really showed me that I need to get some form of securing process for my loose stuff. I looked like a Lucille Ball comedy show when I finally camped. Every time I opened a van door, something came tumbling out. Between that and leaving all of my winter clothes behind, I think I'll change my forum name to VanDitz!
I still need to work on my set up. By the time I get all of my power gear in here, I have zero floor space, and I'm picking up a new 60 lb dog in about six weeks since my little buddy died in July. There's no place for a dog in here, so I'm going to have to rethink that or get him his own van (lol).
Really enjoying the seasonal change, although would like it more if dressed for it...0_0
The spaces are also very close together, which is different from my first outing near home.
Ruby did great on the highway, no overheating since I poured the engine fairy dust into it, decent gas mileage (haven't taken pencil to paper to get actuals) and really gave me peace of mind on my first 500 plus trip. However, since I have always traveled on flat land, this uppy downy stuff really showed me that I need to get some form of securing process for my loose stuff. I looked like a Lucille Ball comedy show when I finally camped. Every time I opened a van door, something came tumbling out. Between that and leaving all of my winter clothes behind, I think I'll change my forum name to VanDitz!
I still need to work on my set up. By the time I get all of my power gear in here, I have zero floor space, and I'm picking up a new 60 lb dog in about six weeks since my little buddy died in July. There's no place for a dog in here, so I'm going to have to rethink that or get him his own van (lol).
Really enjoying the seasonal change, although would like it more if dressed for it...0_0
Shekat, cool, you're on your way. I toss all the loose stuff on the bed or floor when I drive. Also, organizing where each bit and piece goes is a continuing process. Many things have a "natural" place to be that you discover over time.
And if you're going away from the highway for camping, always try to find places before it gets dark. Not so easy when you're traveling, but a good rule of thumb. Being an old codger, if I am doing a long day, 8 hours or more, I usually hole up in a motel if heading into an unknown region. Not so tough anymore.
And if you're going away from the highway for camping, always try to find places before it gets dark. Not so easy when you're traveling, but a good rule of thumb. Being an old codger, if I am doing a long day, 8 hours or more, I usually hole up in a motel if heading into an unknown region. Not so tough anymore.
SheketEchad
Well-known member
This second night was easy, I am on my farm in TN I sure miss it, but life takes things and gives them to others at times.
The drive was absolutely beautiful, although learning how to drive in crosswinds with a higher profile vehicle has been eye opening. So far no troubles at all from the van other than making sure the tires are up to pressure each day. That was kind of loud to do in camp, but everyone was awake at least when the little compressor was running.
Off to do business things and then on the road again later today.
I sure miss it, but life takes things and gives them to others at times.The drive was absolutely beautiful, although learning how to drive in crosswinds with a higher profile vehicle has been eye opening. So far no troubles at all from the van other than making sure the tires are up to pressure each day. That was kind of loud to do in camp, but everyone was awake at least when the little compressor was running.
Off to do business things and then on the road again later today.
SheketEchad
Well-known member
Well, I feel like a true vanlife person now, as I've had my first on-the-road breakdown. Sunday afternoon the fuel pump went out on the van, except I did not know that was what it was 0_0 Just that the van suddenly turned off IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING. That was a new experience for me. Thankfully I was in a good location with plenty of open shoulder room.
I must say, Kentucky was well represented in this experience. Not five minutes after putting my hood up and futzing around on my phone trying to contact roadside service, a couple in a bright red pick up truck pulled up to help. Thinking perhaps it was my battery or alternator, they ran home to get jumper cables even though I let them know that I had contacted roadside assistance. But they got back before the tow truck got there, lol. He checked the battery, the alternator, and then moved on to spraying some spray into the carburetor and when it still would not start, pronounced that I had a fuel problem. By this time tow truck dude had arrived and did the same routine, except with out the spray. I was not going to have any luck, it being a Sunday. This couple guided me to a reputable mechanic and provided his number, told me what was the best motel for reasonable rates, and gave me both of their cell #'s and offered to drive me anywhere I needed to go. I'd nominate them for roadside angels in a heartbeat.
When rolling the van onto the tow truck, fuel was spilling out all over the place (I had JUST filled up with gas), so the tow truck dude surmised I had a hole in the gas tank. So that night was spent contacting my family member who works in the salvage business to try to find a replacement tank. However, due to some gearheads in my life, and some instructions from my uncle on how to test things, I knew before I hit the mechanic shop that it was not a new gas tank I'd be needing. I had done, on his instructions, a start and run in the motel parking lot, so we determined how long the van would run before it shut off again. The hairy part of this ordeal was that the van gave out - IN THE MECHANIC'S DRIVEWAY - thereby saving me another tow. This was after I had to cross a full road construction site where I was praying that it wouldn't die crossing that road! But, it did not.
So thanks to that couple, I was able to get the van into the mechanic the next day and I have it back already - fuel pump replacement, new filter, some repair to the wiring and the return fuel line, all other belts, lines and fluids checked.
It was a pricey trip though, and I cannot second Bob's and others advice more strongly - have a reserve, or at least an empty credit card to handle unexpected situations like this. Between the repair, the motel, a rental car and food, it was close to a grand that I was not planning on spending.
So this may cramp my already planned trips - won't know until I put pencil to paper on the true impact, but it was a very good lesson for me. I was lucky that I was in a town (and a nice one), only had to be towed 5 miles (my limit is 10 miles I learned), and because I met some really nice people, I did not get shafted by the local mechanic who was charging 120.00 an hour labor.
I'm back on the road tomorrow after work, a little more humbled and lot more grateful for all of the good people in the world out there.
I must say, Kentucky was well represented in this experience. Not five minutes after putting my hood up and futzing around on my phone trying to contact roadside service, a couple in a bright red pick up truck pulled up to help. Thinking perhaps it was my battery or alternator, they ran home to get jumper cables even though I let them know that I had contacted roadside assistance. But they got back before the tow truck got there, lol. He checked the battery, the alternator, and then moved on to spraying some spray into the carburetor and when it still would not start, pronounced that I had a fuel problem. By this time tow truck dude had arrived and did the same routine, except with out the spray. I was not going to have any luck, it being a Sunday. This couple guided me to a reputable mechanic and provided his number, told me what was the best motel for reasonable rates, and gave me both of their cell #'s and offered to drive me anywhere I needed to go. I'd nominate them for roadside angels in a heartbeat.
When rolling the van onto the tow truck, fuel was spilling out all over the place (I had JUST filled up with gas), so the tow truck dude surmised I had a hole in the gas tank. So that night was spent contacting my family member who works in the salvage business to try to find a replacement tank. However, due to some gearheads in my life, and some instructions from my uncle on how to test things, I knew before I hit the mechanic shop that it was not a new gas tank I'd be needing. I had done, on his instructions, a start and run in the motel parking lot, so we determined how long the van would run before it shut off again. The hairy part of this ordeal was that the van gave out - IN THE MECHANIC'S DRIVEWAY - thereby saving me another tow. This was after I had to cross a full road construction site where I was praying that it wouldn't die crossing that road! But, it did not.
So thanks to that couple, I was able to get the van into the mechanic the next day and I have it back already - fuel pump replacement, new filter, some repair to the wiring and the return fuel line, all other belts, lines and fluids checked.
It was a pricey trip though, and I cannot second Bob's and others advice more strongly - have a reserve, or at least an empty credit card to handle unexpected situations like this. Between the repair, the motel, a rental car and food, it was close to a grand that I was not planning on spending.
So this may cramp my already planned trips - won't know until I put pencil to paper on the true impact, but it was a very good lesson for me. I was lucky that I was in a town (and a nice one), only had to be towed 5 miles (my limit is 10 miles I learned), and because I met some really nice people, I did not get shafted by the local mechanic who was charging 120.00 an hour labor.
I'm back on the road tomorrow after work, a little more humbled and lot more grateful for all of the good people in the world out there.
badmotorscooter
Well-known member
- Joined
- Nov 9, 2018
- Messages
- 304
- Reaction score
- 48
Glad you got back on the road and everything worked out (except for the unexpected repair bill).
That's the fun thing about life ... it's always something. You just have to build that in to your psyche, and roll with it. Stuff happens. As they say, hope for the best, plan for the worst. More so, when you're a traveler.
I hope you enjoyed the philosophy lesson, lol.
I hope you enjoyed the philosophy lesson, lol.
SheketEchad
Well-known member
I'm a philosophy fan, so thanks, Qxxx! Over time, I've become far more flexible in my outlook, since life likes to throw me curveballs continuously I'm pretty near a rubberband by now, lol.
It has been beautiful here in KY, and I did my first night below freezing in the van with no heat. Bearable while sleeping, a mite more challenging upon waking up and moving. But the day warms up pretty quickly, and layering is an amazing thing. But my hosts have spoiled me so I don't even have to make my own coffee in the mornings! I told them they were treating me like a lost puppy and wanted me to stay, lol.
Heading back out this weekend, where hopefully no more problems with the van betwixt here and home base shall arise.
I'm pretty near a rubberband by now, lol. It has been beautiful here in KY, and I did my first night below freezing in the van with no heat. Bearable while sleeping, a mite more challenging upon waking up and moving. But the day warms up pretty quickly, and layering is an amazing thing. But my hosts have spoiled me so I don't even have to make my own coffee in the mornings! I told them they were treating me like a lost puppy and wanted me to stay, lol.
Heading back out this weekend, where hopefully no more problems with the van betwixt here and home base shall arise.
Good, things are moving along. Traveling is always more iffy than living in S&B and watching the tube from the comfort of a warm chosy bed.
If you don't have it, you should buy jumper cables and a kit of tools. There's not really a lot you can fix on a vehicle, but it helps you feel better knowing you have them. I bought a set at Harbor Freight just to have a complete extra set in my van. Not super high quality but ok for 1-off fixes now and then.
https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/tool-sets/130-pc-tool-kit-with-case-63248.html
I also have a bunch of little flashlights, $1 at Walmart, as well as a very bright tactical light. I also have this lantern (also available at Walmart in camping I think). I love this thing.
https://www.harborfreight.com/250-lumen-compact-pop-up-lantern-64110.html
The other thing is I have is what is generally called a bug-out bag or survival bag, containing the various things they sell at the survivalist websites. Lot of extra "stuff", not food. I gathered the things on my own rather than spending a small fortune like here.
https://www.amazon.com/Sustain-Supply-Co-Emergency-Preparedness/dp/B072VNXZZ4
If you don't have it, you should buy jumper cables and a kit of tools. There's not really a lot you can fix on a vehicle, but it helps you feel better knowing you have them. I bought a set at Harbor Freight just to have a complete extra set in my van. Not super high quality but ok for 1-off fixes now and then.
https://www.harborfreight.com/hand-tools/tool-sets/130-pc-tool-kit-with-case-63248.html
I also have a bunch of little flashlights, $1 at Walmart, as well as a very bright tactical light. I also have this lantern (also available at Walmart in camping I think). I love this thing.
https://www.harborfreight.com/250-lumen-compact-pop-up-lantern-64110.html
The other thing is I have is what is generally called a bug-out bag or survival bag, containing the various things they sell at the survivalist websites. Lot of extra "stuff", not food. I gathered the things on my own rather than spending a small fortune like here.
https://www.amazon.com/Sustain-Supply-Co-Emergency-Preparedness/dp/B072VNXZZ4
SheketEchad
Well-known member
If I carry tools, I could throw them at passersby to get their attention, right?? (LOL) I probably have enough duplicates to cobble together a toolkit for the van - I did bring my drill, a hammer, a screwdriver, duct tape and WD-40, plus extra bungee cords. Maybe that counts?
I am overrun with lights - flashlights, tiny lanterns, light switch lights, solar lights, lights that attach to the Apex. However, when I want one, I can't seem to find the one I want! My favorite lights are the 2.50 solar kid night lights with animal cut outs on them. When illuminated, they throw pictures of animals on the van roof And, they provide a soft light so everyone can't see through the curtains that I'm hammering away on a keyboard at 5 AM, haha!
I did leave my bug out bag at home this trip, as I was limited on space since I have to haul stuff from my farm back home with me to NC. Usually it is in here. But I remembered my first aid kit, which means I did not have to use it!
Just recently bought a compressor and jumper cables; compressor came with, cables did not. I really have to rework my set up now that I've been out and about. In fact, my friend here, an organization queen (I'm not even a princess) is going to help me offload everything and then repack. I may borrow her chalk label pen too, for temp labels until I can remember where all of my stuff is.
Sure is fun and a lot more exhilarating that a bed and TV (have a bed but no TV!)
Stay warm and dry!
I am overrun with lights - flashlights, tiny lanterns, light switch lights, solar lights, lights that attach to the Apex. However, when I want one, I can't seem to find the one I want! My favorite lights are the 2.50 solar kid night lights with animal cut outs on them. When illuminated, they throw pictures of animals on the van roof
And, they provide a soft light so everyone can't see through the curtains that I'm hammering away on a keyboard at 5 AM, haha!I did leave my bug out bag at home this trip, as I was limited on space since I have to haul stuff from my farm back home with me to NC. Usually it is in here. But I remembered my first aid kit, which means I did not have to use it!
Just recently bought a compressor and jumper cables; compressor came with, cables did not. I really have to rework my set up now that I've been out and about. In fact, my friend here, an organization queen (I'm not even a princess) is going to help me offload everything and then repack. I may borrow her chalk label pen too, for temp labels until I can remember where all of my stuff is.
Sure is fun and a lot more exhilarating that a bed and TV (have a bed but no TV!)
Stay warm and dry!
