California or Texas for Sprinter Conversion

[Joanna]

Jage, don't you think that when the issues are dicey and hard to source like a leak or in my case, "cosmetic", that they can finesse the responsibilities easier? And if they are separate entities, wouldn't the permission issue go both ways? So by living near the birthplace of your van, you're better off in the long and short run.
I would have had the van built in Texas if I hadn't needed it to pull a trailer to get there. Then I'd be in less of a fix. I just think that Sinbad will have fewer and MAYBE shorter headaches if he goes with Fresno.

PS. if you spent over $100K for a Jaguar, you'd definitely expect all the sewing to be straight!

[jage]

Originally Posted by Joanna

So by living near the birthplace of your van, you're better off in the long and short run.

Until you give up and decide to just fix it yourself!

[kmessinger]

Originally Posted by sinbad

Hi,

I live in Northern California, much closer to Fresno. I have been to the Fresno plant 13 years ago.

Sinbad

You should check out SMB Fresno now. 13 years ago they were probably still doing VWs

I had my Sprinter done there and it was nothing but a positive experience. They sent me photos of all stages and I visited twice during the build. You can check out the building process here http://www.slide.com/r/RG-KSvetwD963Gf_C41QVkyeqJLYH9d7

Also on my website there are pictures of the progress and other Sprinter information you might be interested in. SMB built a custom design for me - I didn't like any of the stock plans. The process was painless everywhere except my wallet

Regards,
Keith
7 days until Alaska

[Geaux Tigers]

Sinbad, we ordered our Sprinter ONLINE, with Jonathan Feld (the owner's son). It was a breeze, he answered all our questions, we called him often, changed things OFTEN, he returned our calls, sent emails, updates of vehicle and pics, it was just a pleasant experience. We drove from BR to Fresno in a rental and when we got to SMB, there was a welcome sign on the door for us, they pulled about 6 guys off the floor to add hooks, an extra handle and a seasoning tray for me. I met the owner and his wife (she came out with a cake for my husband for his bday). We took a tour of the place, saw the 4 x 4's going to Qatar being made, Jimmy Buffet's new wheels and others. It was just an amazing site to see how they have it all set up and they really work with you.

We purchased our Sprinter in March 2008. The main reason for the purchase is evacuating due to hurricanes (which is what I am doing as of the posting - in Arkansas, ran from Gustav). We use our vehicle as our main vehicle, have no problems (except drive thrus ). When I get a little more time, I will send pics of our vehicle.

We had a great experience and hope you do to.

[Greg In Austin]

I think most of what Geaux describes about the order and build process as well as delivery day is petty much standard procedure for any of the locations.

Living close to the TX facility, I have seen the "Welcome" signs for pickup many times, but my favorite was when it had our names on it !!

And the service has always amazed me; we have seen it for us and for many other folks. I suspect this is similar at all three locations.

While McBeast was living at Fresno, we were able to communicate on questions and get photos taken and sent.

I think maybe the location that is most convenient for you might be a factor to consider as well.