Possibly the end of an era.

[Excalibur]

For nearly ten years, I have proudly borne the tag "White Van Man". Shortly, I will have to relinquish the title, as I've just agreed to purchase a green one! :eek: It's another LDV, three years younger, a hundred thousand miles less, and doors that open and close properly. And best of all: An engine with a turbo! :eek: I know it won't keep up with the sprinters and suchlike, but surely it's got to be faster than my old one?

[Penfold42]

Who are you kidding.... :sj:

[Twinspin]

From SS Continental drift to TT Continental Drift.

[DeckstarDeluxe]

I had a blue van for awhile and I have to admit I much prefer it to a white one. Easier to keep clean as well.

[Excalibur]

Well folks, the deal has been done, money has changed hands, and I now possess The Incredible Hulk. You can see SS Continental Drift sitting forlornly in the background. :( :( She has been a fabulous workhorse , but with the MOT coming up, she's started to develop faults at an alarming rate.

And now, I have to own up to an error. When we went to see Hulk, I didn't inspect her with a fine tooth comb. Or a tape measure. It turns out that I assumed the two vans were identical, but look closely at the first piccy, and you'll see a panel in the middle about eighteen inches wide. It isn't there on Drift. That's cos Drift is a Short wheelbase, and Hulk is a Long Wheelbase. :o :o :o

Two edged sword, makes it impossible to fit in a Tesco parking bay, hard to reverse trailers into confined places, yet capable of swallowing huge loads. The two RSJs are a few inches short of three metres long, and fit with room to spare.

And it drives like a dream, the doors close properly, the locks work, and it's faster by far than its predecessor. I'm a happy bunny. :D :D

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

LWB are the future.

[Excalibur]

LWB are the future.

Indeed. ;) I forgot to add that mine is LEZ compliant as well. Not that it will ever matter, but I was ( pleasantly ) surprised to find that it was.

[Jiggles]

I spy a cat... :p

[Excalibur]

I spy a cat... :p

Blimey Callum, well spotted! :bowdown:

We've seen Jamie on here before. He thinks he's a bird.

[Jiggles]

Cunning cat has hatched a cunning plan to catch his next cunning meal. :sj:

[STEVE HANLEY]

[as I've just agreed to purchase a green one! ]

Note to self! Get your bleeding eyes tested again and soon;) ;) :D :D

Could have sworn that van is blue:D :D

[Excalibur]

Note to self! Get your bleeding eyes tested again and soon;) ;) :D :D

Could have sworn that van is blue:D :D

Don't start that one! Logbook says green, some folk reckon blue, some green. Steve, yes in the photo, it does appear blue, but in the daylight of this morning, it's green. :daft:

[katman]

Don't start that one! Logbook says green, some folk reckon blue, some green.

Perhaps it like that metallic paint that changes colour depending on viewing angle but just not metallic :D

I would say its more of a Teal clolour which is a greeny blue.... or is it a bluey green. :lol:

Nice van though :)

[djtrev]

I am sure it satisfies your needs but judging by the photo it looks decidedly tatty.'Would you park it round the back sir' perhaps.

[STEVE HANLEY]

Don't start that one! Logbook says green, some folk reckon blue, some green. Steve, yes in the photo, it does appear blue, but in the daylight of this morning, it's green. :daft:

:lol:

Maybe it rolled out of the factory green. Then someone resprayed it blue and didn't bother informing Swansea

[Kernow]

Wooden block :confused: sledgehammer :eek: .... have you been reading Stephen King again ? I see nothing but 'Misery' ;) :D

Glad you're sorted mate and hope you will enjoy many happy hours together :beerchug:

[Corabar Steve]

I am sure it satisfies your needs but judging by the photo it looks decidedly tatty.'Would you park it round the back sir' perhaps.
Care to show us your disco waggon then Trev?

[djtrev]

Well I was hoping that I could show you a photo of my Renault Scenic but for some strange reason they are not in my picture file but that is my choice of disco waggon.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I think I'd rather have a tatty van...:sj:

[Excalibur]

Care to show us your disco waggon then Trev?
'Well I really fancied this, but sadly it won't carry a tonnne of sand in the back. :( :(


I think I'd rather have a tatty van...:sj:

Oooooh no dear boy!! Heaven forfend. Everything matters. If you had a tatty van, you'd have to lower your prices to nearer mine! :eek: :eek:
( Especially if you continued to only use two lights ) :D :D :D

[Sarah]

My bairn would love me to have that. She's Scooby Doo mad. It's crying out for some psychedelic flowers and it's 'The Mystery Machine!'. . You could make a fortune on kids parties, give em a spin in it, lol! x

[djtrev]

Fair enough,each to his own.

BUT if you were trying to market yourself as a premier wedding DJ looking for the high end market wouldnt that van let you down.Surely the image you portray to your client and venue is important too.

[Excalibur]

Fair enough,each to his own.

BUT if you were trying to market yourself as a premier wedding DJ looking for the high end market wouldnt that van let you down.Surely the image you portray to your client and venue is important too.

Absolutely Trev, no arguments at all. However:

In this case, performance is more important than appearance. Like many of us, my disco transport has another purpose in the daytime. The first criteria is that it is a 3,5Tonne vehicle. The second is that it cost as little as possible for as much van as possible. A gleaming paint job won't make it bigger, faster, or carry a gramme more.

In an ideal world, I'd have a sprinter for the Disco, with smart livery, high travelling speed, and a big loadspace, while The Hulk performed the day job. Sadly, it's not an ideal world.

[djtrev]

I'm sorry Peter,I thought you were one of the full timers on here.
I should have sussed it out with the builders crap in the back but I assumed that it was like that in its former life.
My apologies.

[Sarah]

When I seen it, I laughed. Not in a ridiculing way, but because it pleases me that not everyone takes life sooo seriously! When I first started out I had an absolute battered ford courier van in white. I'd scratched and scraped it that much as a young kid novice driver, my dad called it 'The Beirut Banger!'. I did 8 karaoke/discos a week with it, 3 afternoons and 5 nights, excluding Saturdays which I kept free for weddings, private functions etc. Dud the clients ever see or even care about my van? I doubt it. They were the greatest, happiest times for me as a D.J . At the moment I drive a brand new Qashqai + 2, top spec and pull a brand new box trailer, private registration plates. I've had 5 gigs this year. Maybe it's high time I didn't take myself so seriously again! Best wishes Peter. May you have many miles and lots of work with her. . . Sarah x

[Jiggles]

When I seen it, I laughed. Not in a ridiculing way, but because it pleases me that not everyone takes life sooo seriously! When I first started out I had an absolute battered ford courier van in white. I'd scratched and scraped it that much as a young kid novice driver, my dad called it 'The Beirut Banger!'. I did 8 karaoke/discos a week with it, 3 afternoons and 5 nights, excluding Saturdays which I kept free for weddings, private functions etc. Dud the clients ever see or even care about my van? I doubt it. They were the greatest, happiest times for me as a D.J . At the moment I drive a brand new Qashqai + 2, top spec and pull a brand new box trailer, private registration plates. I've had 5 gigs this year. Maybe it's high time I didn't take myself so seriously again! Best wishes Peter. May you have many miles and lots of work with her. . . Sarah x

:like:


I'm sorry Peter,I thought you were one of the full timers on here.
I should have sussed it out with the builders crap in the back but I assumed that it was like that in its former life.
My apologies.

http://inter.o2perfect.o2sx.com/img/dislike.png




:ph34r:

[Excalibur]

. At the moment I drive a brand new Qashqai + 2, top spec and pull a brand new box trailer, private registration plates. I've had 5 gigs this year. Sarah x
Blimey Sarah, and they say you can't get good money in the North East? :eek: :eek: You must be charging more than (Insert name of high class DJ of choice here ) . :D :D

[Corabar Steve]

Well I was hoping that I could show you a photo of my Renault Scenic but for some strange reason they are not in my picture file but that is my choice of disco waggon.So something really fit for the purpose :sarc:


BUT if you were trying to market yourself as a premier wedding DJ looking for the high end market wouldnt that van let you down.Surely the image you portray to your client and venue is important too.
How often does the client (or anyone that actually matters at the venue for that matter) see your vehicle.

A van with a bulkhead vs a people carrier?

The van will win for me every time regardless of it's condition (as long as it's roadworthy). Doesn't matter if you're full time, part time, or one gig a year. The vehicle should be fit for the purpose you are using it for. I know of one DJ at least who can't justify owning a van, so he hires one when needed for gigs.

[djtrev]

Fair enough,Peter has given his reasons



So something really fit for the purpose :sarc:


.

And you actually think that van with sand,cement,plaster and assorted building equipment is fit for the purpose of transporting DJ equipment never mind my opinion that it is a bit tatty and doesnt do his image any favours.

[Jonathan Ford]

The vehicle should be fit for the purpose you are using it for. I know of one DJ at least who can't justify owning a van, so he hires one when needed for gigs.

Hmmm....I currently use a Focus C-Max, and everything fits in the boot apart from the DSB, which sits on the back seat. I realise that this had potential to dismember me in a high speed collision.

However, C-Max is rapidly becoming a pain in the arse, having a couple of thousand spent on it this year, and the same last. It's only worth £3k at best! So, it's going. Now I can't remember the last time I had a car that I wanted, rather than a tool. Have my eye on a nice Mercedes C220 Coupe...might get round the disco problem by hiring a van for gigs :beer1: :beer1:

[Shaun]

Looks good Peter. My, it's a big beast eh!! :)

[Penfold42]

Grandad last seen on pimp my ride!.....lol :D

Looks good mate. :)

[Corabar Steve]

And you actually think that van with sand,cement,plaster and assorted building equipment is fit for the purpose of transporting DJ equipment never mind my opinion that it is a bit tatty and doesnt do his image any favours.
Why wouldn't it? Everything Peter uses is flightcased & I notice you conveniently ignored my comment on how often a client or venue staff other than minions will actually see it.

Do you actually think Peter leaves the building bits & bobs in there when it's in disco mode?

[djtrev]

My comments are regarding the vehicle and the contents and not directed at Peter personally but I am sure he knows that.
I would hope that the contents are removed and the interior vacuumed

[Charlie Brown]

In a way, I agree with Trev but understand why Peter uses & bought it.

A nice looking van, similar to Paul's or Darren's creates a better impression, especially when it's parked outside a nice country hotel.

[Larry B Entertainment]

http://inter.o2perfect.o2sx.com/img/dislike.png



:like:


Do you actually think Peter leaves the building bits & bobs in there when it's in disco mode?

Not unless the venue wants a quick extension putting up in between dj sets :D

[Corabar Steve]

I never park my van anywhere near the entrance to the venue. If it's tucked away in the car park how would anyone know who it belonged to unless it's sign-written.

I'll concede that if a sign-written van is sitting there with rust holes & bits falling off, then it doesn't paint a very good picture of the company it belongs to. BUT, seeing a large blue/green van of that size sat in a car park wouldn't immediately say DJ or disco to me (or I would expect, most people).

Let's face it also, signage isn't there to impress or create a good impression. It's there for advertising, pure & simple.

Just what's so bad about Peter's new van? Remembering that even if the client sees it, (I see we're still ignoring this bit)
How often does the client (or anyone that actually matters at the venue for that matter) see your vehicle. it's not very likely that they'd inspect the inside.

There aren't any dents to speak of & the paintwork is mainly intact. Sure it could probably do with a wash every now & then (couldn't we all).


A nice looking van, similar to Paul's or Darren's creates a better impression, especially when it's parked outside a nice country hotel.
Says the man with no vehicles at all! :sj:

[Excalibur]

A van with a bulkhead vs a people carrier?

The van will win for me every time regardless of it's condition (as long as it's roadworthy). Doesn't matter if you're full time, part time, or one gig a year. The vehicle should be fit for the purpose you are using it for. I know of one DJ at least who can't justify owning a van, so he hires one when needed for gigs.
That's the crux of the matter. Vans are designed for carrying things, people carriers are designed for carrying people. As we all know, many of us use things which are not purpose built. When I was doing the store launches, since I was using minimal kit, and travelling long distances, I sometimes used the car. Guilty as charged. :o




And you actually think that van with sand,cement,plaster and assorted building equipment is fit for the purpose of transporting DJ equipment never mind my opinion that it is a bit tatty and doesnt do his image any favours.



Not unless the venue wants a quick extension putting up in between dj sets :D
Well I've lost count of the times I've repointed the gable end of a village hall while the punters were having their meal. ( Joke, for those who weren't sure. ;) Though I have in fact done quite a few repairs to venues so that the gig could take place in my time. )


Looks good Peter. My, it's a big beast eh!! :)
It is large. And after a few days with it, although I hadn't intended to get one this size I love it. My views may change when I try to park it in Tesco, or reverse a trailer into a tight driveway though.


My comments are regarding the vehicle and the contents and not directed at Peter personally but I am sure he knows that.
I would hope that the contents are removed and the interior vacuumed

Rest easy there Trev, before any disco gear is ever loaded, the van is reversed to the day job side of the yard where day job gear is removed into its storage area.

It then moves to the middle of the yard where the cleansing process takes place. Once it has been deemed sufficiently clean, it moves across to the Disco side of the yard, where it is loaded with the necessary kit for the gig (or gigs. Having space to spare means it's possible to pick'n'mix. I took two different sets of PA with me this weekend, since each was tailored to the different venues. )

And if anyone thinks I'm taking the mickey, the process I have described is exactly what happens.



A nice looking van, similar to Paul's or Darren's creates a better impression, especially when it's parked outside a nice country hotel.

Aha, and eventually we get to the other important point. Everything matters. Except there are still no absolutes. Is a customer reassured by seeing his or her DJ turn up in a possibly overloaded family hatchback or estate, which is nearly new, and gleaming in the sun, or do they feel happier to see a less than pristine large van turn up, safe in the knowledge that it contains everything needed for the gig, and probably a little bit more for good luck? :confused: Or is the only satisfactory option the fully liveried, single purpose nearly new Vivaro sized van such as is used by folk such as Paul, Darren and Shaun? If I can word it correctly, I think I can feel a new thread coming on. ;)

[djtrev]

Rest easy there Trev, before any disco gear is ever loaded, the van is reversed to the day job side of the yard where day job gear is removed into its storage area.

It then moves to the middle of the yard where the cleansing process takes place. Once it has been deemed sufficiently clean, it moves across to the Disco side of the yard, where it is loaded with the necessary kit for the gig (or gigs. Having space to spare means it's possible to pick'n'mix. I took two different sets of PA with me this weekend, since each was tailored to the different venues. )

And if anyone thinks I'm taking the mickey, the process I have described is exactly what happens.

Aha, and eventually we get to the other important point. Everything matters. Except there are still no absolutes. Is a customer reassured by seeing his or her DJ turn up in a possibly overloaded family hatchback or estate, which is nearly new, and gleaming in the sun, or do they feel happier to see a less than pristine large van turn up, safe in the knowledge that it contains everything needed for the gig, and probably a little bit more for good luck? :confused: Or is the only satisfactory option the fully liveried, single purpose nearly new Vivaro sized van such as is used by folk such as Paul, Darren and Shaun? If I can word it correctly, I think I can feel a new thread coming on. ;)

Somehow I think I would have been surprised if you hadn't cleaned it out before loadin your DJ gear.

I have no problem with using a van as your DJ transport,in fact in an ideal world that would be my choice of vehicle,my initial comments were made because the photograph appears to show patches of rust along the lower edge of the van and the racking appears to be rusty too.As for fit for purpose,I could hardly disagree with that.

[Corabar Steve]

So we are going to ignore tha fact that the client would rarely see it anyway are we?

Fine. :sj:

[djtrev]

So we are going to ignore tha fact that the client would rarely see it anyway are we?

Fine. :sj:

YES

[Corabar Steve]

A simple "yes" would've sufficed Trev (even if a little rude), there was absolutely no need to shout in font size 5.

[djtrev]

It was a simple 'yes' to start with Steve but I thought you might see the funny side if I made it bigger.
Yes I was going to ignore it because I didnt have an answer to your question ie you were bloody right!!!

[Corabar Steve]

http://planetsmilies.net/sign-smiley-438.gif (http://planetsmilies.net):HappySteve:

[Excalibur]

After three years, Thunderbird 2 ( formerly known as Incredible Hulk. The name was changed when we got Thunderbird 1, a silver Peugeot. ) has begun to look increasingly shabby, and is now not really up to long motorway jaunts. The other day it wasn't even up to local runs, when the propshaft centre bearing collapsed. :( Luckily, I claimed sanctuary in a customer's yard, and got it fixed, but that was really the final straw.

With the inclement weather this week, we've been out looking at some absolute :Censored: in some really unimpressive van dealers, in an attempt to save a few bob. Let's just say that some of them could hardly be considered an upgrade, and I wouldn't trust some of the salesmen much, either. ;)

So, after a really grim trip along the M62 yesterday in torrential rain, I returned home a very dejected little bunny. :(:( I found more dealers and vans via the internet, but still wasn't confident, after some of the crap we'd seen. We got rained off again, so off we went to Barnsley this time. Well surprise, surprise, the dealer's site was impressive, the vans were good, and the sales team were ace. So far, so good. We had a drive in the one we were most interested in, and were really really impressed. When we brought it back to the yard, the lad we were dealing with asked what we wanted it for, and when he heard what the day job was, said we should look at the one in the corner. Good news, :D bad news. :(

Good news, the van was absolutely perfect. Absolutely. Bad news, it was 3k above my budget. :cry::cry: Ah well, we would just have to make do with second best, as usual. Hopefully I'll pick it up Friday, and I'll post piccies as soon as possible. Eight years newer than the current one, 25% power increase, six speed gearbox, cruise control isn't a brick on the accelerator any more, air con and electric windows. Mmmm, nice.

Just need a name for it now. :confused:

[Nakatomi]

Awww. Ah well, all good things must come to an end, so they say.

The era of me driving to work & ferrying disco gear in a car is almost over, I'm glad to say. I found a van, and am about to buy it :D

[CRAZY K]

After three years, Thunderbird 2 ( formerly known as Incredible Hulk. The name was changed when we got Thunderbird 1, a silver Peugeot. ) has begun to look increasingly shabby, and is now not really up to long motorway jaunts. The other day it wasn't even up to local runs, when the propshaft centre bearing collapsed. :( Luckily, I claimed sanctuary in a customer's yard, and got it fixed, but that was really the final straw.

With the inclement weather this week, we've been out looking at some absolute :Censored: in some really unimpressive van dealers, in an attempt to save a few bob. Let's just say that some of them could hardly be considered an upgrade, and I wouldn't trust some of the salesmen much, either. ;)

So, after a really grim trip along the M62 yesterday in torrential rain, I returned home a very dejected little bunny. :(:( I found more dealers and vans via the internet, but still wasn't confident, after some of the crap we'd seen. We got rained off again, so off we went to Barnsley this time. Well surprise, surprise, the dealer's site was impressive, the vans were good, and the sales team were ace. So far, so good. We had a drive in the one we were most interested in, and were really really impressed. When we brought it back to the yard, the lad we were dealing with asked what we wanted it for, and when he heard what the day job was, said we should look at the one in the corner. Good news, :D bad news. :(

Good news, the van was absolutely perfect. Absolutely. Bad news, it was 3k above my budget. :cry::cry: Ah well, we would just have to make do with second best, as usual. Hopefully I'll pick it up Friday, and I'll post piccies as soon as possible. Eight years newer than the current one, 25% power increase, six speed gearbox, cruise control isn't a brick on the accelerator any more, air con and electric windows. Mmmm, nice.

Just need a name for it now. :confused:

Proud Mary--I know you love CCR:D:D:D:D

I take it you get a warranty with the sale Peter?

Hope so---My son bought a big Sprinter last year in somewhere like Rochdale ----- oh dear a tale of woe!

You might want ongoing warranty cover also--Air con £500 Turbo £1000 went on my new Galaxy --

Lots of nice new expensive features to go wrong by the sound of it---the joy of modern Motoring.

Enjoy.

[Benny Smyth]

Eight years newer than the current one, 25% power increase, six speed gearbox, cruise control isn't a brick on the accelerator any more, air con and electric windows. Mmmm, nice.

But is it bright pink? It has to be bright pink. That's the new 'in' colour for vehicles in 2016.

I wish you many happy miles in the new motor. As for a name, will need to see those pics before contributingredients an idea.

[Excalibur]

But is it bright pink? It has to be bright pink.

Ooooooh, so close Benny. So close. All I'll say is it's a delicate pastel colour, nice and tasteful. ;)

[mattydj50]

Ooooooh, so close Benny. So close. All I'll say is it's a delicate pastel colour, nice and tasteful. ;)

Tell me where it is and it could be bright pink by the morning!!

[Nakatomi]

:Censored: :Censored: :Censored: :Censored: :Censored: CAR!

Happily driving home from work today, along the A1M... just getting ready to approach the junction where I come off... and my car's clutch died. Just over an hour later (thanks AA!) I'm back home & in the process of borrowing some money from my dad inlaw so I can buy a van this weekend. I'm just glad it happened on the way home from work, not at 1am when it was full of gear.

Yes, I KNOW I said I was gonna get a van this year, car.. but you just forced my hand, you :Censored: !

The car, bless it.. was likely going to be sold for scrap in any case but now it surely is. Quote for a new clutch from a local garage is over £300 - and with everything else it'd need to pass its MOT in June it's totally run out of value.

[Excalibur]

I'm back home & in the process of borrowing some money from my dad inlaw so I can buy a van this weekend. .

Step into my office. ;) I just happen to have a lovely van with only two owners, less than a hundred thousand on the clock, towbar, roofrack, and turbodiesel engine. Price reduced for quick sale*. :D


* For those who think I'm circumventing for sale rules, it's a joke. I do have one more van than I strictly need, but I don't expect anyone on here to want the big green/blue one. I suspect her next journey will be to the scrapyard.

[Nakatomi]

* For those who think I'm circumventing for sale rules, it's a joke.

Whoops. Missed that bit. Heh

[Benny Smyth]

I know that it's a long way but if you struggle to find anything you like, Justin, try Amlin Motors. It's where I got my last van (ex-AA jobbie) and they were fantastic in looking after me.

[Nakatomi]

I know that it's a long way but if you struggle to find anything you like, Justin, try Amlin Motors. It's where I got my last van (ex-AA jobbie) and they were fantastic in looking after me.

You wouldn't believe how far I'll be prepared to go for a real bargain Benny cheers :) (yes possibly even as far as 150 miles away)

I've got a nice shortlist I'm gonna start chipping away at tomorrow, not to mention one of a DJ friend of a friend I'm really keen on. I'm desperate, but don't want to end up buying twice.

[Nakatomi]

Well, here's my new transport. 07 plate, a shade over 150k miles, under a grand which is way under budget. It's fully lined, and has a side loading door too. There was a Transit Connect too, but the sills were rusty as hell (on a 2010 plate?! :O ). It's booked in for a cam belt change & I'll be doing a regular service on it ASAP. I was keen on buying a van from a friend of a friend but he's up to his neck in family issues right now so it wasn't to be.. and I was in a slight hurry. I pick this one up on Monday. I should add that it's amazing how many car & commercial sellers aren't open on a Saturday afternoon.. very very very annoying if you happen to work weekdays or have an urgent need.

17824

[Benny Smyth]

Well, here's my new transport. 07 plate, a shade over 150k miles, under a grand which is way under budget. It's fully lined, and has a side loading door too. There was a Transit Connect too, but the sills were rusty as hell (on a 2010 plate?! :O ). It's booked in for a cam belt change & I'll be doing a regular service on it ASAP. I was keen on buying a van from a friend of a friend but he's up to his neck in family issues right now so it wasn't to be.. and I was in a slight hurry. I pick this one up on Monday. I should add that it's amazing how many car & commercial sellers aren't open on a Saturday afternoon.. very very very annoying if you happen to work weekdays or have an urgent need.

17824

Whey! You've come over to the dark side.

With this van, you are now an authority of speeding, tailgating, undertaking, cutting people up and criticising their driving!

[Excalibur]

But is it bright pink? It has to be bright pink. That's the new 'in' colour for vehicles in 2016.


Like I said Benny, you were sooo close.

It's bright. I believe it's had one lady owner, who only used it to go to church on Sundays. :fp:

Actually, it was owned by the same organisation Benny got his old one from. It was a right bugger getting rid of all the old bottles in it, I can tell you. :(

Possible names so far, Beryl ( the Peril ), Pearl, Texas, and even one from a person who should know better, Soul Banana.

[Benny Smyth]

Looks in good knick that does, Peter. You'll soon experience the hilarity of passing some poor sod on the hard shoulder trying to flag you down because he thinks that you're his recovery service. Happened to me a few times.

As for a name, how about Big Yellow Taxi? That way wherever you go, you'll be paving paradise, and there'll be a convenient parking lot when you need it.

The hot spot will obviously be the pink hotel where you'll be working. Near the boutique.

Am I dragging this on a bit?

[Excalibur]

Looks in good knick that does, Peter.

It's very tidy.


As for a name, how about Big Yellow Taxi? That way wherever you go, you'll be paving paradise, and there'll be a convenient parking lot when you need it.

The hot spot will obviously be the pink hotel where you'll be working. Near the boutique.

Am I dragging this on a bit? Oh yes. :(

[Nakatomi]

Like I said Benny, you were sooo close.

It's bright. I believe it's had one lady owner, who only used it to go to church on Sundays. :fp:

Actually, it was owned by the same organisation Benny got his old one from. It was a right bugger getting rid of all the old bottles in it, I can tell you. :(

Possible names so far, Beryl ( the Peril ), Pearl, Texas, and even one from a person who should know better, Soul Banana.

Dat van be BANG TIDY innit!
Ahem. Did you have any polishing out to do or had somebody else taken care of the vinyl side effects already?

Looks like I'll be borrowing a buffer doobrey this weekend to eliminate my machine's previous insignia.

[Excalibur]

Did you have any polishing out to do or had somebody else taken care of the vinyl side effects already?
No. Apart from the drivers side mat, the interior's spotless. There are some battle scars on the bodywork, and while they haven't been panel beaten out or filled smooth, they are all covered in paint. The inside is newly boarded to half height, which curiously was the main reason we went to see it.

Trouble is, it's a bit too good for the day job now. :)



Looks like I'll be borrowing a buffer doobrey this weekend to eliminate my machine's previous insignia.

I've had vans from BT and Royal Mail. If you stood in the right place, you could always see the former owner's name. :D

[Nakatomi]

No. Apart from the drivers side mat, the interior's spotless. There are some battle scars on the bodywork, and while they haven't been panel beaten out or filled smooth, they are all covered in paint. The inside is newly boarded to half height, which curiously was the main reason we went to see it.

Trouble is, it's a bit too good for the day job now. :)




I've had vans from BT and Royal Mail. If you stood in the right place, you could always see the former owner's name. :D
Heh. I suppose a full wrap is always an option. A nice pearlescent purple background...

Edit: Oh no it isn't. Just seen how much that costs. Ouch

[Excalibur]

Heh. I suppose a full wrap is always an option. A nice pearlescent purple background...

Edit: Oh no it isn't. Just seen how much that costs. Ouch

Re the wrap, a kitchen fitter mate has an image of a new kitchen on his van. :)

Re cost, I got a new radio for this van, to provide bluetooth handsfree and USB playback. Ex display, a steal at £70. Sadly, fitting kit and fitting is double that. Thank you Ford for using a non standard radio fitting. :mad:

[Benny Smyth]

Oh yes. :(

Meh.1,051 posts. Can't all be golden. :p

[ukpartydj]

I've had vans from BT and Royal Mail. If you stood in the right place, you could always see the former owner's name. :D

Same here, I bought mine and never noticed the "signpost services" faint markings until the light caught it at the right angle! I've sign written the sides and back It's only visible on the bonnet though.

[Benny Smyth]

So going on from my previous thread regarding getting a new van (http://www.forum.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/showthread.php?44312-The-Van-Conundrum), I've gone and done it (and if you're wondering "Why not just reply to that thread, yer halfwit?!?!" the simple answer is I can't)!

Last Thursday, I visited a few places. I was at the "Let's see what I can get" stage and I found a fair few options within budget. All very efficient options that will do as required, but nothing that jumped out at me in terms of excitement. I decided that this would be my base line - I have the luxury of time, so I'll use that time to see if I can find something a little sexier within budget and if I can, great. If not, that's cool 'cos I can go back to my baseline.

The next day, I spotted on Autotrader something that really piqued my interest: a 2013 Ford Transit Custom Trend (I promise that I didn't buy it 'cos Peter hates the Custom). Just shy of 90k on the clock and is a very tidy looking number. Full service history, cruise control, air con, front and rear parking sensors, Clifford alarm...I think I found the sexy and in budget! Dropped the guy a message and drove to Wales to go see it and take it for a test drive and it has definitely been looked after - it's as tight as a drum.

The chap mentioned that he put it online at the price I'm paying, went to bed and woke up that morning thinking to himself that he could get more money for it - then I enquired before he put the price up. I believed him as he came across as a genuinely sincere bloke and my faith was well placed - a van that is exactly the same went onto Autotrader (including mileage) on a 14 plate and that was more than £2k extra. A quick search also shows that I have indeed picked up a bit of a bargain.

Holding deposit paid while he touches up the paintwork and I'll be picking it up Monday.

http://i66.tinypic.com/eqoymf.jpg http://i65.tinypic.com/1zokyv9.jpg

http://i65.tinypic.com/2mwyoo1.jpg http://i66.tinypic.com/2ljghh1.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/29oocar.jpg http://i63.tinypic.com/n5swoh.jpg

Here's hoping that I don't rue these words on the shoulder of a motorway at some point. :Laugh:

[Excalibur]

So going on from my previous thread regarding getting a new van (http://www.forum.mobilediscodirectory.co.uk/showthread.php?44312-The-Van-Conundrum), I've gone and done it (and if you're wondering "Why not just reply to that thread, yer halfwit?!?!" the simple answer is I can't)!

And the reason for that is because young Benny posted it in Business Help, quite sensibly. Sadly, that part of the forum is currently offline, after a deluge of porn swamped it. Mayhap young Shaun, and /or Marc J will bring it back online shortly.


The next day, I spotted on Autotrader something that really piqued my interest: a 2013 Ford Transit Custom Trend (I promise that I didn't buy it 'cos Peter hates the Custom).

My one gripe with the Custom is that they didn't get the lad who designed the cabin on mine ( Mk7 ) to do the Custom. Mine has been designed by someone who lives and works in one. The Custom sadly, is a triumph of style over substance. It looks lovely, but lacks the ergonomics of mine.

Benny, I'm sure you'll love it, my son loves his to bits. I am however confused as to why you have gone for purchase over lease this time? :confused:

[Benny Smyth]

I am however confused as to why you have gone for purchase over lease this time? :confused:

Three years ago, I had The Big Yellow Taxi and a car. It was more economical to lease a very nice van and have that as my single mode of transport and for a while, the Vivaro I got on contract hire was very much fit for purpose. Since then, my nephew came to live with us and we ended up needing a car. So now that I have a car again, the van doesn't need to be as nice and thus negates paying what I have been paying every month for the Vivaro.

[Marc J]

And the reason for that is because young Benny posted it in Business Help, quite sensibly. Sadly, that part of the forum is currently offline, after a deluge of porn swamped it. Mayhap young Shaun, and /or Marc J will bring it back online shortly.

I didn't put it offline. I wasn't aware of the spam issue - I do remember you emailed me about it but then found the "ban as spam" option which should have rectified it. I don't know who put that forum offline, though. Maybe Shaun? Do you want me to look into it? I don't really get involved in moderation, but will have a look if you want...

EDIT: I see it's not offline, but can't be posted to...not the best approach to stop spam!

[Excalibur]

I didn't put it offline. I wasn't aware of the spam issue - I do remember you emailed me about it but then found the "ban as spam" option which should have rectified it. I don't know who put that forum offline, though. Maybe Shaun? Do you want me to look into it? I don't really get involved in moderation, but will have a look if you want...

EDIT: I see it's not offline, but can't be posted to...not the best approach to stop spam!

Marc, never forget that my IT knowledge consists of turning things off and on again. :daft: I'm a fully paid up Luddite. It was young Shaun who did whatever he did, but I would be delighted if you could throw a couple more chickens in the cauldron, and work whatever voodoo is necessary to make everything work again. Thank you.

Dazzy and I were almost full time deleting unseemly stuff from the site at one point!! :eek: ( Tempting fate mode enabled: Seems OK now ) :luck:

[Marc J]

Marc, never forget that my IT knowledge consists of turning things off and on again. :daft: I'm a fully paid up Luddite. It was young Shaun who did whatever he did, but I would be delighted if you could throw a couple more chickens in the cauldron, and work whatever voodoo is necessary to make everything work again. Thank you.

Dazzy and I were almost full time deleting unseemly stuff from the site at one point!! :eek: ( Tempting fate mode enabled: Seems OK now ) :luck:

It's OK now because posting new topics and replies by anyone not a moderator or admin is disallowed on that forum.

There's a ReCAPTCHA v2 plugin (checkbox style) that should work, when I get a minute I'll install that. Nothing is 100% effective, though. In the meantime, maybe re-enable posting and see how it goes (Shaun)?

[DazzyD]

I didn't put it offline. I wasn't aware of the spam issue - I do remember you emailed me about it but then found the "ban as spam" option which should have rectified it. I don't know who put that forum offline, though. Maybe Shaun? Do you want me to look into it? I don't really get involved in moderation, but will have a look if you want...

EDIT: I see it's not offline, but can't be posted to...not the best approach to stop spam!

Hi Marc

Probably not best discussing the background workings of the forum on an open thread so I'll just add to my post in the mods section. ;)

[Marc J]

Hi Marc

Probably not best discussing the background workings of the forum on an open thread so I'll just add to my post in the mods section. ;)

OK, but just so you know, I'm not in there!

[Shaun]

OK, but just so you know, I'm not in there!

You have full access if and whenever you need it Marc

Re: the other stuff mentioned above that I implemented. It was a quick temporary fix when I had limited time, just to try halt the on onslaught of spam in the interim. I'll revert it all back when we get the other measures in place. :)

[Shaun]

Very nice van Benny. :)

[Benny Smyth]

I'm driving a 13 plate Transit Custom with 105k on the clock. Bought it in 2019 with it having journeyed just shy of 90k, and for the most part it has been fine. I have missed having a new van, but I can't justify another contract hire agreement. It feels like a van, whereas the Vivaro I had before it felt like a car.

It does the job perfectly fine. MOT and service time has been expensive, but still less than what I would have paid out across the year on CH. With my current trajectory, I've got at least another 5 years of motoring before I need to replace it - I dare say that I will break long before the van will.

Hello, my name is Benny and I would like to nominate the above post for the 'Famous Last Words Of The Year' award, please.

Unfortunately, le Ford has gone to the big 'Backbone Of Britain' in the sky. That means most of my late December/early January internet browsing history became a lot more suitable for work, with it mostly consisting of van hiring and van searching. That search is now over, as I am now the proud owner of a Citroen Dispatch (FYI, the word 'proud' is doing a lot of heavy lifting here).

67 plate with less than 52k on the clock, cruise control, air conditioning, DAB, Android Auto/Apple Car Play, alarm, along with just enough cabin storage space to house a toothpick.

As you can tell, storage space is a bit of a gripe for me, as coming from a Transit Custom I was certainly spoiled. As for the Dispatch...I was holding a big bottle of water before I drove off and it became apparent very quickly that if I'd like for it to remain within arms reach, it would have to sit on the seat next to me. It has door bins, two cup holders and a glove box (plus a little bin on the dashboard that will maybe hold a tablet). Basically what you get in a car, and that's pretty bad for a van.

Oh...my other gripe is that of the power button on the stereo. It has the volume knob surrounding it (so far so normal), and when you turn the volume knob, the power button spins with it. It's not static - it turns, meaning that you could end up with the correct volume, but an upside down power button. Or some other random direction (I suspect that the engineer for that went on to Denon to design their Prime Go!)! This is not a unique example, by the way, as one of the hire vans I drove was the Vivaro equivalent, and it did the same in that one.

OCD gripes aside, it's a nice little van. Loading area is smaller than the FTC, but I can still get my kit in there with a bit of rejigging. It's comfortable, nice to drive, comes with the aforementioned bells and whistles and the van I bought is what da yoot dems would call 'bang tidy, innit?'. A Custom is a Custom, but for the equivalent price I paid, you wouldn't get most of the tech and I wanted a bit more luxury this time.

It's just kinda weird that I chose to get that luxury from a 5-speed Citroen van, churning out 95 horses from a 1.6 engine. Don't have to pay to drive into Birmingham City Centre anymore though, so...yay?

19030

[Imagine]

Congratulations.

The bus going bang is my biggest fear....the prices in these parts are eye-watering.
The Berlingo isn't too dissimilar to my little NV200 in body style by the way. I think you have the slight advantage of the doors being made of something a bit heavier than tin-foil as the NV200's are - you won't see many driving around with perfectly fitting side doors :mad:

[Benny Smyth]

The bus going bang is my biggest fear....the prices in these parts are eye-watering.

The Benny Bus didn't so much as bang as it did get written off. Turns out that resulted from components of the van that were formally seperate entiries becoming one in perpetuity.


The Berlingo isn't too dissimilar to my little NV200 in body style by the way. I think you have the slight advantage of the doors being made of something a bit heavier than tin-foil as the NV200's are - you won't see many driving around with perfectly fitting side doors :mad:

I also have the distinct advantage of not owning a Berlingo. :lol:

Is the NV200 not holding up? I had high hopes for that one!

[Imagine]

I also have the distinct advantage of not owning a Berlingo. :lol:

Is the NV200 not holding up? I had high hopes for that one!

Sorry - engage brain and fingers at the same time :daft: I spelled Dispatch wrong (but you spelled Citroen wrong....in these here parts it's spelled Sh......) :rofl:

The NV's doing just fine...it's an AWESOME little van and with diesel prices what they are, I'm glad it's only a little 1.4 that sips at the fuel. It's currently doing between 47-50mpg depending on load and how heavy my right foot is.

Apart from being just a little bit too small (Tetris skills come in handy when the LOVE letters are needed), the only fault I've got with her is that the side doors are a little bit too lean on metal. If you slam them too hard, they bend.

I looked at several when I got mine, and some of them you could physically get your hand between the door and the door post where the doors had been shut too hard. I think they've probably resolved that issue on the later ones as you don't see too many with the problem. So long as you're careful with it...it's fine.

Sadly, they've now discontinued it so the hopes of one day moving to a shiny brand new one are dashed (because I'm NOT going for the eNV200 with a pathetic 80 mile range in perfect conditions and no load)

[DJ Jules]

Sad news on the van! What actually failed in the end?

I've lost track of which manufacturers are collaborating on designs at the moment and if the Dispatch is now different to the Vauxhall, Renault and Peugeot equivalents or just a rebadging of one of their designs. Someone told me the other day that VW transporters are about to be a rebadging of a transit - which is going to upset a lot of VW enthusiasts if it's true...

My vivaro has just gone through the MOT without any issues so I'm considering trading it in. Again. Second hand van prices seem to have settled a little now, but still not down to pre-pandemic levels.

Julian

[Benny Smyth]

Sad news on the van! What actually failed in the end?

It was the result of an accident, unfortunately.


I've lost track of which manufacturers are collaborating on designs at the moment and if the Dispatch is now different to the Vauxhall, Renault and Peugeot equivalents or just a rebadging of one of their designs.

Vauxhall are now part of the PSA group. That's means that the Vivaro now platform shares with the Dispatch, Scudo and Expert.

The Trafic platform shares with the NV300.

[Excalibur]

It's alright for you lads, with your shiny new ( to you ) toys. :mad: I'm sitting on a timebomb, and can't afford to swap. :( The Soul Banana will have been with me for seven years in spring, and the garage and I have replaced a lot of bits on it, including one responsible for me being stopped in an impressive T pac manouvre by a couple of high powered police motors. :eek:

Benny lad, the bloke who designed your Custom must have done the Citroen as well. The lad who designed my Full Fat Transit obviously lived in one. He was a genius. If my numbers come up on the lottery, I may well be persuaded not to get a Custom, simply because the cabin is so much worse than mine. Sounds like I shan't be checking out Dispatch vans either.

And why do I need my numbers to come up? Well, after I blew up the gearbox a year or two ago, after a week of motorway work with a trailer full of Arboricultural waste ( wish I'd never taken that job ) it's again predicting its demise. Ah well. :(:(

[Benny Smyth]

It's alright for you lads, with your shiny new ( to you ) toys.

Let me reassure you that this is not alright. It's very much a financial kick to the sack that I really could have done without. :lol:


Benny lad, the bloke who designed your Custom must have done the Citroen as well. The lad who designed my Full Fat Transit obviously lived in one. He was a genius. If my numbers come up on the lottery, I may well be persuaded not to get a Custom, simply because the cabin is so much worse than mine. Sounds like I shan't be checking out Dispatch vans either.

I really liked the cabin of the Custom and, to be fair, the cabin of the Dispatch is a nice place to sit. Just not as practical as a van should be.

Plus with Android Auto/Apple Car Play, you would get your most coveted feature: the ability to send messages while driving!

[Excalibur]

Let me reassure you that this is not alright. It's very much a financial kick to the sack that I really could have done without. :lol:
But the pain in your wallet is over. Mine is still to come. :cry::cry:




I really liked the cabin of the Custom and, to be fair, the cabin of the Dispatch is a nice place to sit. Just not as practical as a van should be.
In my Transit, I can load up with three cups of Ronald's finest brew to hand at once, and still have room for a bottle of lemonade.



Plus with Android Auto/Apple Car Play, you would get your most coveted feature: the ability to send messages while driving!
Vehicles without Apple Car Play are automatically disbarred. :Naughty:

[Benny Smyth]

Benny lad, the bloke who designed your Custom must have done the Citroen as well.

I have a very distinct feeling that nobody on the design team for this incarnation of the Citroen Dispatch actually drives a van. At the very most, they once hired a van for their mate to drive while they moved house. Aforementioned gripes of the cabin storage aside, the wing mirrors are obviously taken from one of the cars in the Citroen range. Compared to every other van that I have driven, they're really small and have no wide angle mirrors on them either, which I consider to be pretty damn dangerous when driving a vehicle with a lot of blind spots.

To help improve my visibility of those blind spots, I jumped onto Amazon to buy a couple of those stick-on wide angle mirrors that learner drivers use to help prevent scratching up their instructor's car when parking. One of the Amazon reviews for this product actually namedrops the Dispatch:

19032

So yeah...poor showing, Citroen. I hope that for their next van, they employ a builder onto the design team. Or, at least, somebody who knows what it's like to drive a van day-to-day.

On the plus side, after I bought the Dispatch, I filled the tank up. Five weeks later, I filled it again for the first time since that day, having driven 658 miles in the interim. That's about 150 more miles than a full tank in my old Transit Custom, and I'm lead to believe that the Dispatch's tank capacity is a little smaller too.

Every cloud, and all that!

[DJ Jules]

I just picked up a vivaro. Same van, different badge as we've already discussed. Why didn't they keep the lashing points on the walls like the 2012 Vivaro?? And what's with the mirrors!

[Excalibur]

Benny lad, the bloke who designed your Custom must have done the Citroen as well. The lad who designed my Full Fat Transit obviously lived in one. He was a genius. If my numbers come up on the lottery, I may well be persuaded not to get a Custom, simply because the cabin is so much worse than mine. Sounds like I shan't be checking out Dispatch vans either.

And why do I need my numbers to come up? Well, after I blew up the gearbox a year or two ago, after a week of motorway work with a trailer full of Arboricultural waste ( wish I'd never taken that job ) it's again predicting its demise. Ah well. :(:(

Benny, come and join me in the Famous Last Words Club, over here. :o:o

You know I said I was sitting on a timebomb, with the demise of the gearbox for a second time not a question of "if", but "when"? The noise sounded like a warped disc grating on a worn brake pad, but that was ruled out totally, leaving only the gearbox as a likely culprit. :(
Well, the Soul Banana went in for its MOT today, and my nephew spotted that a driveshaft bearing was loose, and turning in its housing. Could this be the source of the dreaded noise? :confused:

Good news:
yes, it was. :) Having added some weld to the bracket for grip, changed oil, and filters in a mini service, and a brake sensor to pass the test, I headed home in blissful silence. ( Well as close as you can get in a twelve year old Transit ). Yippee.

Bad news:
no such thing as a free lunch. £50 for the chuffing oil in it, £40 for the sensor, £50 for the damned filters, Labour and MOT, and the arrival of the Invoice took the wind right out of my sails. £300! :cry::cry:

[Benny Smyth]

Bad news:
no such thing as a free lunch. £50 for the chuffing oil in it, £40 for the sensor, £50 for the damned filters, Labour and MOT, and the arrival of the Invoice took the wind right out of my sails. £300! :cry::cry:

Still better than a new van, yer jammy sod!

[Excalibur]

Still better than a new van, yer jammy sod!

Oh my young friend, indeed it is, indeed it is. :D

[ppentertainments]

Just jumping on this instead of starting a new thread - but has anyone ever gone FROM a van back to using a car ?

It is something I am considering now I and working a lot less and not taking much equipment - plus we now have (rip off) emissions charge thing in place now where you get charged for a lot of vans BUT all cars are free still. Word is eventually ALL vans will be charged, while cars will remain free. Ludicrous though this sounds it is a massive plus for using a car instead of van - other thing is I much prefer driving a car, but a van is much much easier to load/unload.

[Excalibur]

Just jumping on this instead of starting a new thread - but has anyone ever gone FROM a van back to using a car ?

It is something I am considering now I and working a lot less and not taking much equipment - plus we now have (rip off) emissions charge thing in place now where you get charged for a lot of vans BUT all cars are free still. Word is eventually ALL vans will be charged, while cars will remain free. Ludicrous though this sounds it is a massive plus for using a car instead of van - other thing is I much prefer driving a car, but a van is much much easier to load/unload.

The Legend that is Crazy K was a fan of having a foot in both camps. People Carriers. Toby was thinking along similar lines too, I believe, although I kept recommending a multi seat van for him, with a bulkhead.

I used to use the car for store launches ( oh how I miss them :( ) as I only had small speakers, playout, and a micron booth, and would often end up in a car park where Transits wouldn't fit. Otherwise, as vans get comfier and faster ( within road limits of course ), it's not the delineation it was, and I miss the riding position of the van when I'm in the car.

Worst of all, when I go to McDonalds drive thru in the car, I have to look up to the attendant. :eek::eek:

[ppentertainments]

The Legend that is Crazy K was a fan of having a foot in both camps. People Carriers. Toby was thinking along similar lines too, I believe, although I kept recommending a multi seat van for him, with a bulkhead.


Another reason for considering a car is the comfort factor - which certainly rules out any People Carrier :D:D

We do have a Merc as the family car which would be ideal, however would only use one about 10 year older lol

[Benny Smyth]

Just jumping on this instead of starting a new thread - but has anyone ever gone FROM a van back to using a car ?

It is something I am considering now I and working a lot less and not taking much equipment - plus we now have (rip off) emissions charge thing in place now where you get charged for a lot of vans BUT all cars are free still. Word is eventually ALL vans will be charged, while cars will remain free. Ludicrous though this sounds it is a massive plus for using a car instead of van - other thing is I much prefer driving a car, but a van is much much easier to load/unload.

Is hiring a Berlingo (or something of it's ilk) on a per gig basis a plausible option?

I know there's the whole safety aspect and what not but, to be honest, the only reason I suggest it is because even the PITA thought of loading kit in and out of a car just made me go "ugh!".

[rth_discos]

Just jumping on this instead of starting a new thread - but has anyone ever gone FROM a van back to using a car ?


Yes, I sold my van in Feb 2020 - it was feeling like it was getting to end of life, so seemed a good time to offload it. Ended up being good timing considering what happened a month later...

I then started hiring vans per gig as we came back, and ultimately now use a Jeep Renegade.

It's not quite as flexible as a van. But everything fits just fine. The biggest benefit of the van was how secure everything was in the back, for example I don't feel comfortable stopping off at a service station for example with stuff loaded in the back and on the back seats in the Jeep. The van came in handy on the rare occasion I needed to leave kit in the rear (I had good deadlocks on it). It struggles to hold an all day set of kit, but easy to hire a van when needed for larger events. The biggest hassle with hiring a van is the time for collecting/returning it, especially as few are open on a Sunday, and have limited hours on a Saturday.

But I'm doing less gigs at the moment. I wouldn't want to do it in the Jeep for doing 4+ events a month.

[DJColsie]

I use a Seat Terracco 7 seater auto.

Lovely to drive fits all the gear in with privacy glass to match. The only time I hire a van is for all day weddings and then I factor the cost into the quote. As I only do 2 or 3 a year that is fine however the drop off / pick up can be a pain due to opening hours, as said previously.

[DJ Jules]

A local colleague of mine just bought a crew cab van (VW Transporter Combi). Fits the family and a complete rig without breaking a sweat. I think he said he spent about £30k+vat though...

Prior to going the van route I had a Chrysler Voyager, a Renault Scenic and a Ford Galaxy. The Voyager was a bus and the rear bench seat could be removed completely, but it weighed 2.5t unladen and it drank fuel. The Galaxy had fold flat seats in the middle and rear rows and could fit 2.1m length loads plus driver and passenger without having to remove or store anything and it was comfy drive to boot.

I definitely wouldn't go back to a car now though.

Julian

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Another reason for considering a car is the comfort factor - which certainly rules out any People Carrier :D:D

We do have a Merc as the family car which would be ideal, however would only use one about 10 year older lol

Thought of using a trailer?

[Imagine]

My poor little NV200 isn't very well. She's had an engine warning light up for several weeks (my OBD tool says glow plug module and something to do with turbo pressure). So....took a deep breath, booked her in with my man with the spanners (a two week wait I might add!), and waited for the inevitable phone call.

"Wayne....it's not good news" said Frank the man with the very expensive diagnostic machine and spanners who I'd actually trust with my life (he's bloody good and unlike a lot of garages will actually tell you if it's more worthwhile doing it yourself)
"It's OK", says I, "I'm sitting down"
"You might want to lay down for this one" says Frank.

Long story short, we don't actually know what's causing so many diagnostic codes at the moment (there are 3-4 showing on the OBD), but they started taking things to bits on Friday and found the turbo is seized....absolutely solid :(

End of the road for Molly the disco bus? Like hell it is!
The turbo's booked for the start of May (thankfully I have a quiet period), and I'm having the cam-belt done at the same time because knowing my luck, that'll be the next thing to go....all for the princely sum of around £1,500 :eek:

Is it worth it? I did a quick search for a replacement....Autotrader had only 8 listed Nationally when I looked, the cheapest being £8k and in worse condition than mine! Why are vans still so expensive?

The best bit? I asked if she was still OK to drive (because a dead turbo isn't the be-all and end-all of things). Yes came the response, but it'll feel unresponsive and flat.
Know what? She feels exactly as she's always felt. I fear the turbo's been seized since day one of my owning her and there's more to come :zip:

Even better, the annoying little EML goes out and stays out after about 5 minutes of driving since the seized turbo was diagnosed....go figure!

[Excalibur]

Wayne, I feel your pain. Both our vehicles are too expensive to replace, and we were hoping they'd be the last we bought. My van seemed about to derail those plans, with electrical faults, an impending transmission explosion, and a display of warning lights any disco would be proud of. I feel your pain Son, I feel your pain. :(

My good news was that once I'd unplugged an aftermarket AA add on, the garage had tightened a loose bearing housing, and replaced an ABS sensor, she's good to go again, and a pleasure to drive. :banana:

Sad to say, the car's in the garage for rear brakes, and I fear a large bill. The Lord giveth............................................ .....

[DeckstarDeluxe]

New engine on my boxer with 3 months left of the lease. 18 plate with 80k :( £5k+ (I'm buying the bloody thing because no way I'm spending that and giving it back).

[Excalibur]

New engine on my boxer with 3 months left of the lease. 18 plate with 80k :( £5k+ (I'm buying the bloody thing because no way I'm spending that and giving it back).

Now Neil, this has been bothering me since you posted it. Do I understand that the £5k hit you in the wallet? I thought that the idea of the lease was to avoid such mishaps? So you still have to deal with servicing and maintenance? Hmmm, time for Deep Thought and a calculator, I feel. :daft:

[DJ Jules]

Now Neil, this has been bothering me since you posted it. Do I understand that the £5k hit you in the wallet? I thought that the idea of the lease was to avoid such mishaps? So you still have to deal with servicing and maintenance? Hmmm, time for Deep Thought and a calculator, I feel. :daft:

It's the subtle difference between leasing and contract hire. It's also the main thing that put me off leasing.

Julian

[DJColsie]

If you lease for 3 years then its covered by the manufacturers warranty.

[Imagine]

Ouch - that hurt!

What was supposed to be a simple one day job on Tuesday to fit a new turbo turned into squeaky bum time as to whether I'd have the van back in time for the weekend.

She's FINALLY back from intensive care with a new turbo, water pump, cambelt and various sensors (one of which didn't actually turn up until midday today :eek:).
Literally back on the road and feeling like a new van just in time for a duo of gigs this weekend. Talk about cutting it fine :eek:

At least she's good mechanically for another couple of years and it was cheaper than a replacement bus :)

[Excalibur]

At least she's good mechanically for another couple of years and it was cheaper than a replacement bus :)

Marginally. :(
Happy motoring. https://www.thesmilies.com/smilies/transport/steeringwheel.gif (http://www.thesmilies.com)

[ppentertainments]

Well, I had a day off on Friday and spent a little time on Autotrader and a nice gleaming Mercedes van popped up, just 3 miles from home, 9 months old and a very attractive price especially as the VAT had been paid.

Off I went armed with a bank card, got to the roundabout before the garage selling it, went all the way round the roundabout and came home.

I just can't persuade myself to part with a silly amount of money for something my current 12 year old vehicle does for me - even if it rules out working in Newcastle. Dunno what it is but buying a new van is something I don't think will ever happen at this rate, or maybe I can just think of better things to spend almost £30k on ???

[DeckstarDeluxe]

Now Neil, this has been bothering me since you posted it. Do I understand that the £5k hit you in the wallet? I thought that the idea of the lease was to avoid such mishaps? So you still have to deal with servicing and maintenance? Hmmm, time for Deep Thought and a calculator, I feel. :daft:

Update..

It was 8k. There's not a word nor emoji I can use on here to express my thoughts about the whole thing but if she lives without major drama for the next eight years then I'll be ok with it.


Well, I had a day off on Friday and spent a little time on Autotrader and a nice gleaming Mercedes van popped up, just 3 miles from home, 9 months old and a very attractive price especially as the VAT had been paid.

Off I went armed with a bank card, got to the roundabout before the garage selling it, went all the way round the roundabout and came home.

I just can't persuade myself to part with a silly amount of money for something my current 12 year old vehicle does for me - even if it rules out working in Newcastle. Dunno what it is but buying a new van is something I don't think will ever happen at this rate, or maybe I can just think of better things to spend almost £30k on ???

I mean that Mercedes will last until we're all driving electric vans I'd imagine. Won't get a better chance by the sounds of it owning a pretty much new van without the new van price.

[Excalibur]

Update..

It was 8k. There's not a word nor emoji I can use on here to express my thoughts about the whole thing but if she lives without major drama for the next eight years then I'll be ok with it.
Repair costs like that Neil, I'd want it to last eighty, not eight! :eek::eek::eek:



I mean that Mercedes will last until we're all driving electric vans I'd imagine. Won't get a better chance by the sounds of it owning a pretty much new van without the new van price.

Those of us who went to Plasa, Leeds on Wednesday are quietly smirking about the battery powered amps we saw. The suggestion was to trickle charge them from solar panels, or wind turbines. No it wasn't April 1st, and no, I haven't ordered one. :)

[ppentertainments]

I mean that Mercedes will last until we're all driving electric vans I'd imagine. Won't get a better chance by the sounds of it owning a pretty much new van without the new van price.

Mileage I do now even my current van will last until we are all driving electric vans haha.

My plan is to replace the luxury car I thought I had to sell, so sold it, then realised I maybe sold in haste and now want to replace it.