Intro & request ya critique my order plans - Page 4

**daveb** · 12-08-2007, 11:39 PM

Mike unless I missed it, I would discuss doing a solar prewire with SMB even if your not planning on solar at this time. Just a thought. Also I really like the heated seats and use them even though I didn't think I would. The XL storage helps big time but you have to move the spare tire to the back. Some simple things like LED's on all the switches and straps on the visors to keep them from falling down on rough roads. Good luck.
Dave B

MikewTV · 12-09-2007, 05:40 AM

I was not getting solar due to the fact that I wasn't going to camp extended periods, live on the east coast where it's less likely I'd be in sun, and I will have a dedicated 30 amp hook up in my driveway to plug in and charge when need be. But still, you raise a good point that if I was pre-wired it'd be an option down the road for me or a future owner. I decided against heated seats. We have those in one of our cars and I never use them (I do realize van will take a long time to heat up but so did my Jeep wrangler and I was okay.) Storage will be solved by a wheeless trailer. But I have a question. When you say LEDs on switches can you explain exactly what you mean? I have seen the postings of replacing stock bulbs with LEDs but it sounds like you mean marker lights on the actual light switches? If you can explain a bit more I'd appreciate. Thanks.

**daveb** · 12-09-2007, 01:26 PM

When SMB puts in switches, for some reason some have indicators and some don't. I want a visual indication on anything that might be left on by accident. A few examples, the outside light switch had no indicator on it so I would climb in and sit there with the light on all night because the windows are blocked at night. I wish I had an indicater LED on the dash that shows my Starcool fan is running too, that would help. My backup light switch was the same. I was driving down the road with them on. I usually get a thumbs up by people passing me not the middle finger up. One time I heard a sound coming from the van while it sat at home. It was the water pump that had been left on since my last trip. Why it kept cycling I don't know but indicators would have helped on all these items.
Dave B

jage · 12-09-2007, 09:46 PM

The reverse light is actually an ON-ON switch with the output going to the lights. I really like the fat blue switch I put in, there's not accidental throwing the reverse lights on anymore.

**daveb** · 12-11-2007, 08:30 PM

That's a good idea. I have climbed in before hitting the switch with my knee and never saw the indicator on for the Backup lights. It was daytime so not too bad, but would hate to be pulled over by a cop. I still don't like lookin in the mirror and seein a police car and I've even cut my hair. Only the old people will get that. Well... older anyway.
DaveB

MikewTV · 01-01-2008, 03:18 PM

We are driving out to Sportsmobile Huntington for a visit on Friday January 11th. This is also when I plan to finalize the list of options for the conversion. I have a list of options I think I want and ones I might want. But I have a question about the underfloor storage. (At this point I am thinking of taking a pass on it since it entails relocating the spare and therefore significant expense.) But, still curious if it might be something I regret if I don't get it.

I see many references to the XL under floor storage. But what about the regular underfloor storage that is a bit more affordable. Anyone have thoughts about how well that works? What can you fit in it? What do folks think of the regular size vs. the XL size? And, if anyone has pictures of either it'd be great to see.

Thank you in advance.

jage · 01-01-2008, 04:08 PM

If you go with the XL do the optional locking top... the opening is bigger and the non-locking top is just a piece of covered wood which can warp with moisture.

I can't say how big is is as I've never needed to fill it. I actually keep an empty bucket in there right now to take up some of the space.

Oh! I just remembered where my wife's computer keyboard went during the move! She'll be happy that I didn't pack it in the ReloCubes after all!

MikewTV · 01-02-2008, 11:54 AM

Thanks good to know. Hopefully someone hear can explain or show through pictures - the differences between the XL underfloor storage and regular underfloor storage.

mikestead · 01-02-2008, 03:42 PM

I asked SMB West this question several months ago. Here is their answer regarding the regular storage compartment:

"The regular storage compartment on the Ford RB van is 28â€

MikewTV · 01-07-2008, 06:37 AM

Thanks Mike having the dimensions helps. I will be out there at Huntington this Friday to met with them and checkout whatever is on site (perhaps not too many in the middle of January.)

still on the fence about underfloor storage. I wonder, would adding either of these storage compartments negate adding a generator at a later date. (something I have considered and am trying to make sure remains possible.)