How to Confirm/Verify "It's a SMB"

[bravelion]

Hi,
I'm shopping for a 4x4 camper van. Some are advertised as "Sportsmobile" but I think it may not be. Quigley has a "See if it's a Quigley" on its website where a VIN number can be entered and instant confirmation. I don't see anything similar on SMB website. Is there a way to confirm it's "as advertised".
thanks

[BroncoHauler]

Just know that before SMB west developed their own 4x4 system, they did camper conversions on Quigleys, and even after their own 4x4 was available, they would still perform camper conversions on Quigleys.


So you need to determine what about a Sportsmobile is most important to you. For many camper vans, and especially 4x4 camper vans, Sportsmobile has often become a generic term like Kleenex.


Herb

[bravelion]

Originally Posted by BroncoHauler

Just know that before SMB west developed their own 4x4 system, they did camper conversions on Quigleys, and even after their own 4x4 was available, they would still perform camper conversions on Quigleys.


So you need to determine what about a Sportsmobile is most important to you. For many camper vans, and especially 4x4 camper vans, Sportsmobile has often become a generic term like Kleenex.


Herb

Thanks. I have no "brand" allegiance to SMB, but they happen to pop up a lot on my searches. I guess I do trust that a real one is better built than a DIY build, so that's the main reason I wonder if there is a way to tell, such as a plate on the vehicle. I'll call and ask SMB tomorrow.

[Ben10281]

SMB verifies by last name of the original purchaser from SMB. To my knowledge they don't go by VIN number. My SMB is a Model Year 2000, I bought it in 2015 and they were still able to find the original build sheet, as I happened to have the original owner's last name so they do hold on to the info, you just need a last name to get it.

[N147JK]

No secondary vehicle ID sticker, something similar to what's in the attached photo?

[mikracer]

Post some pics of the van, particularly the interior. You can tell if its a Sportsmobile interior by the cabinets, lights, etc.

The name brand will most likely get you a better response when selling, but some home builds will definitely have better quality materials than SMB's particle board.

[Thorne]

My 2011 SMB Sprinter 2500 has the Sportsmobile sticker in the driver's door frame.

[Vanimal]

What does it matter if it suits your need. I vehicle is worth what you want of it. If its a Ferrari or a newer Vette, they all go fast and make you pee your pants.

[bravelion]

Originally Posted by Vanimal

What does it matter if it suits your need. I vehicle is worth what you want of it. If its a Ferrari or a newer Vette, they all go fast and make you pee your pants.

I guess I think there is a certain "brand" awareness and that one can assume a certain build quality with a true Sportsmobile.

Secondary to that, if/when a seller is willing to shade the truth, it rightfully causes me to question everything they say or represent about the vehicle.

I'd love to find a one-owner original Sportsmobile being sold by the original purchaser. I'd have much greater trust in that seller than someone who advertises untruths about the rig.

[Vanimal]

You should really search this site for truths to your "Dream SMB". Just like all manufacturers, no after market entity is flawless, and SMB is no different. I've seen many post here in reference to poor QC from SMB. Maybe more since this site does carry the name. Complaints about the Fresno owner and his arrogance. On second thought I have heard good service from Texas thus reminding me that every location is individually owned. In fact the Fresno location has changed names, as far as owning one you may want to see if it is a California built SMB or out of state. Just my 2 cents. I am sure some owners here will agree and some will support the location as they may have received service at the right time or mood!