OzVMX Forum

Clubroom => General Discussion => Topic started by: albrid-3 on February 23, 2009, 02:19:05 pm

Title: Utes or Vans
Post by: albrid-3 on February 23, 2009, 02:19:05 pm: What is the ideal vehicle, l have a one ton AU falcon ute with a alloy tray, this ute of mine is in excellent condition, but l have trouble loading and unloading the bikes, l am thinking about selling it to buy a normal ute or a van, now the vans that like are the vito, vw, traffic, l cannot afford new, price range around 10 k to 15k, so the traffic is out great looking van. l like the transit van, but have heard to many bad things about them but l am still drawed to them. what do you think. Or should l just buy a bike trailer. When l go to race meetings l like to camp in the back of the vehicle.
Thank you
david
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on February 23, 2009, 02:42:33 pm: buy a van, hard work sleeping on a trailer. Plus of course you have security, easy loading. I would buy Hiace, I never trust non Japanese vehicles. If Hiacki is a bit pricey, buy Tarago or something and rip the seats out.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: maicomc490t on February 23, 2009, 04:24:35 pm: I have had a Nissan Navara 4WD for a few years now and agree with the height loading issues if you are doing it on your own and yeah, security is definitely less but it gets me the last spot in the pits every time and doesn't get bogged like the BF ute I use sometimes. Utes as everyone knows can mean all your gear getting a drenching on a rainy day and when you stop at a pub anything that can't be jambed inside is fair game - bike included. Vans on a wet day are a godsend except when they drop all the mud and filthy water inside and you travel back in a bike induced humidicrib, then have to be cleaned out :o

Before the ute it was a VW Transporter that NEVER let me down and parts pricing is no different to the Japs, however the big draw card for me back in early 2002 when I bought her was the survivability aspect in the event of a head on prang which is important at the budget end of the van market. No comparable van from the land of the rising sun had the same chassis construction and trust me, I have cut people out of Hiaces and the like and they don't go tap dancing for a VERY long time. Later ones may be safer but the early ones left me cold. Transporters can be bought at very reasonable prices even with low mileage and the diesels get pretty good touring range - 800Km plus. Avoid Vito's like the plague - not even made in Germany (unlike VW)

The choices are swings and roundabouts.

For my money and where I am heading is a fully enclosed trailer behind the 4B but even the old box trailer does a good job - maximim load and maximum comfort.

Dave Mac ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: AjayVMX on February 23, 2009, 04:51:01 pm: I love my Vito...

(http://img.villagephotos.com/p/2005-7/1052255/VMXVan2_2.JPG)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: bigk on February 23, 2009, 05:18:48 pm: I bought my Vito 112CDI, 2200 turbo diesel auto, new in 2003, last of the front wheel drives. Drives like a sedan, 800klms per tank of fuel, fits 3 bikes & gear no problems. Will pull a 17ft skiboat/tandem trailer at 130kph. Never had a spanner on it other than the schedule services at an interval of 22,500 klms, except for a set of discs & pads which cost $650. Love it, would recommend it and would even have one as a family car with seat & windows. The only time you know it's a diesel is sitting at the lights when you notice the diesel tick.
Cheers,
K
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: caps 999 on February 23, 2009, 05:36:34 pm: go the hiace heres my beasty ;D

(http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x197/caps999/l_51ffbee00f7a4aa7b22faf42b563a48d.jpg)
(http://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x197/caps999/l_8c90ed59373e663f543b0921a9221126.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: DJRacing on February 23, 2009, 05:43:49 pm: Toyota Hi-ace, the only way to go.
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f65/djracingyz/NorthVsSouth06209-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: DJRacing on February 23, 2009, 05:47:57 pm: http://ozvmx.com/community/index.php?topic=2300.0
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: maicomc490t on February 23, 2009, 05:59:34 pm: Hey Mike

Glad your Vito is good - my mates had a sliding door fall off and the front CV collapsed leaving the poor old thing sitting on one corner, lol.

Have to say though that yours looks much better maintained - really good actually !!!

The Thor mobile looks cool but check out where your leggies are in relation to the front panel which, when subject to a front end or oblique impact required the application of Holmatro or Lukas special factory tools

http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgurl=http://www.holmatro-usa.com/gallery/cutters/studio_958493159.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.modenafirerescue.org/HolmatroRescueTools.htm&usg=__wD0VkV7nzTaN9D4rG40h4T4Xe8Y=&h=389&w=904&sz=49&hl=en&start=5&tbnid=71ePT2UMV5VTgM:&tbnh=63&tbnw=147&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dholmatro%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB:official%26sa%3DG

http://images.google.com.au/imgres?imgurl=http://www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au/_images/ancap_vehicles/hiace05.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.howsafeisyourcar.com.au/_scripts/ancap_detail.php%3FIID%3D167&usg=___rfAjrWeIkJvpV2eRr_0PPaxIUY=&h=180&w=296&sz=19&hl=en&start=7&tbnid=ZIMb6zi3_n-4oM:&tbnh=71&tbnw=116&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dhiace%2Bfront%2Bend%2Bimpact%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26client%3Dfirefox-a%26rls%3Dorg.mozilla:en-GB:official%26sa%3DG

I'm just not a fan of the older style fwd control type configuration, but have seen too much not to mention it.

To be fair and objective the Nissan isn't that flash either in my opinion with the crash test !!!

All points considered :D

Dave Mac
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: shorelinemc on February 23, 2009, 06:13:20 pm: I too have an AU 1 tonner ,I usually use a bike trailer but when i am doing bulk pickups i run them up the trailer then a ramp to the ute if just using the the ute use a stool push and step up . stay away from transits or as they better known in the trade a tradgedy van mercs arnt much better ,a mate had one and after braking 2 lots of vales it was time to get rid of it. My Brother has a vw transporter no probs at all and are comfy to drive unlike the jap vans - bit harsh sitting over the axle
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mainline on February 23, 2009, 06:27:00 pm: I like the Bedford in DJ's photo. All it needs is an Viking woman airbrushed on the side
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: DJRacing on February 23, 2009, 06:46:55 pm: The Beddy, runs a nissan deisel (2.7/2.8??) carries 3 bikes with ease and goes bloody good, just like the owner, Danny, thats him with his modern RM250 (only rides 2 strokes) and below on his RM500. (sorry about the quality, but I didnt get much time to take the picture)
(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f65/djracingyz/DannyWillemson004.jpg)

(http://i45.photobucket.com/albums/f65/djracingyz/1.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mike1948 on February 23, 2009, 06:47:48 pm: A van every time. Security, weatherproof, ideal for camping out, or sheltering from the rain when I'm covered in mud. My Ford Econovan maxi (read Mazda), bought cheap as chips on Ebay has served me well for 3 years. Didn't use a drop of oil to CD5 - 4400Km.
And I can get home late and leave the unloading until next day, without everything disappearing overnight.

Mike
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: 090 on February 23, 2009, 07:19:33 pm: I think a van is the go. Having said that, i quite like what i have now. A reliable commodore wagon . I tow an enclosed trailer as well. This way the bikes are locked up, plenty of room in the back of the wagon, and i can sleep in it as well.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on February 23, 2009, 07:20:37 pm: I think a Crewman would be pretty comfortable and give you more storage for your gear.

The only thing I don't understand about Aussie utes especially the Falcon is they are made for dwarfs, you would think they would have them sorted so guys over 6 foot fit in.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: GD66 on February 23, 2009, 07:39:51 pm: And how many years till they figure it out : two dirt bikes, side by side, straight fore and aft, gear in, tailgate closed....how hard can it be.... ::)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Doc on February 23, 2009, 08:37:53 pm: as much as I bag it my vintage '82 model L300 Mistabitsi (just like my bikes ;)) works for me. 3 bikes + all the gear and spares and if I want another 3 on the trailer but the whole idea of the van is so i don't have to tow anything as the car makes less HP than the bikes it carries :D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: bigk on February 23, 2009, 10:00:21 pm: Alison, a Vito is a Mercedes Benz van.
Cheers,
K
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: albrid-3 on February 23, 2009, 10:17:21 pm: Thanks guys, and girls all of you have been a great help, l have seen bigK vito van they are great looking and wide, their are times when race meetings fall on the same weekend when l pick up my two sons, the ute is a bit squeesy, and your right when the rear tray is full and it rains and the camping gear is wet, its not a fun day. so
choose, out of 10
vito van
VW dual cap
VW Transporter
Toyota Hiace
Transit Van
Or pull a canopy over my ute and tow a trailer.
Forum What do you think, which one would you rate out of 10.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: VMX247 on February 23, 2009, 10:37:25 pm: Quote from: bigk on February 23, 2009, 10:00:21 pm
Alison, a Vito is a Mercedes Benz van.
Cheers,
K

Thanks Big K..These are the bus's to have 8) .
I know of one (earlier model sprinter) in WA all kitted out ,,,ready to rock and roll(SOLD)
www.vmxwa.com.au
We are still sleeping in a trailer & lov'n it 8)
rock on pre75 :-*

ps DOC great packing style 8)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mainline on February 23, 2009, 11:30:29 pm: I vote for the Bedford, something a little different with a bit of style.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: SUZUKI311 on February 23, 2009, 11:37:33 pm: Have had four hiaces over the many years and kms, not withstanding the fact they are not the safest thing on the road i reckon i would have travelled more than 500,000kms collectively, and no problems with reliability or anything else. i also have one for sale at the minute..
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Doc on February 24, 2009, 06:37:59 am: Quote
ps DOC great packing style
;D that pic taken b4 I left, you should see how it all gets tossed in when the day is done..it's never pretty :D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: albrid-3 on February 24, 2009, 08:57:49 am: doc, when the van is clear of bikes, at the race meeting do you sleep in it.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: maicomc490t on February 24, 2009, 12:39:30 pm: Hey Doc - You're out of hand towels :o
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Doc on February 24, 2009, 02:08:32 pm: allbrid..sure can. Blow up air matress, gas stove and decent size esky an' my ol' clunker can easily be my home away from home.

Yes Maico, out of paper towels :( will have to hit the storeroom next time I'm at the Shell depot ;) they sponsor me but they just don't know it...paper towels have no use at an unmaned depot so I make them feel useful :D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Rossvickicampbell on February 24, 2009, 02:30:10 pm: Doc - how could you!!!!! :o I am shocked - but have new respect for you now ;D

Rossco
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: IT490K on February 24, 2009, 05:16:16 pm: Nothing beats the Beddy... My LWB can fit 4 bikes but is more comfortable with 2.
Huge in the back only a 2 seater so plenty of room to sleep.

(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s74/leathermo/DSC00063.jpg)

(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s74/leathermo/DSC00055.jpg)

(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s74/leathermo/DSC00058.jpg)

(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s74/leathermo/DSC00059.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mainline on February 24, 2009, 05:46:25 pm: no pics of the back? I'm picturing shag pile carpet, velour upholstery and a mirror ball.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Doc on February 24, 2009, 07:59:53 pm: Rossco what is more shocking is they've now run out of all 2 stroke oil and chain lube too..apparently it simply vanishes when it becomes old but eh, the logic Shell uses is the old stuff is not logistically worth bundling up and retuning to be repackaged for resale so it's basically a help yourself but don't go spastic ;D paper towels are all that's left nowdays :D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: TooFastTim on February 24, 2009, 08:28:07 pm: Quote from: mainline on February 24, 2009, 05:46:25 pm
no pics of the back? I'm picturing shag pile carpet, velour upholstery and a mirror ball.

You forgot the "if this van's a rockin' don't bother knockin'" bumper sticker ::)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: AjayVMX on February 25, 2009, 01:29:02 pm: Quote from: IT490K on February 24, 2009, 05:16:16 pm
Nothing beats the Beddy... My LWB can fit 4 bikes but is more comfortable with 2.
Huge in the back only a 2 seater so plenty of room to sleep.

(http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s74/leathermo/DSC00063.jpg)

Gee, I hope your hair replacement treatment went well. ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Doc on February 25, 2009, 04:27:08 pm: never have your hair anything but in vintage '70's mode 8) works for me, mind you it's not as thick as it once was, what's the addy of that hair shop?? :-\ Goddang hippy throwbacks. Peace brother, love the Beddy, ever thought of a big hippy type mural on the side..it's begging for it! ;D

oops, slight hi-jacking..my appologies..
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: nada on February 25, 2009, 07:35:25 pm: Dad,
Buy a Van!!!!! ;D

cheers!!

me
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: albrid-3 on February 28, 2009, 09:59:19 am: THE VAN IS THE ONE TO BUY. :-[ :-[ :-[
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: VMX247 on September 02, 2009, 01:18:08 pm: Not a ute or van --but Nice :P

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2009-NEW-ALL-ALUMINUM-FULLY-CUSTOM-MOTORCYCLE-TRAILER_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3286Q2em63Q2el1177QQhashZitem4ceab72837QQitem
Z330355386423QQptZMotorsQ5fTrailers
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: evo550 on September 02, 2009, 05:40:11 pm: http://www.redbook.com.au/Tig/UI/PagePopup.aspx?R=57910&PhotoID=FORD0549&h_mid=&f_mid=&c_mid=4417838&pid=361965&tabID=1407517 About to enclose the back of my one of these. 4 bikes and all gear easy and seats 6. Best of both worlds, and drives like a car
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: DR on September 02, 2009, 06:27:18 pm: Get a van man!! :P I'd really love to get me one of those current Merc Vito vans similar to the pic below. Just a straight silver or black with tinted windows and dropped onto a nice set of wide shiney wheels would be beaut 8) all in my dreams of course ::)

(http://www.ldikustoms.com.au/images/corporate/vito%20van/scan0215_filtered.jpg)
courtesy of L.D.I. KUSTOM KONCEPTS
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: frostype400 on September 02, 2009, 06:53:26 pm: nah get a ford falcon ute with dedicated gas the basic model has a centre seat to fit three or xr6 has buckets but they run the same donk and go good thanks Michael. :)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: TwoTees on September 02, 2009, 07:18:20 pm: Here you go Doc
(http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7wAg3ejJ0pM/Sp43sMbuK4I/AAAAAAAAAMw/Egz9B4xDd8U/s800/vito.jpg)

I reckon these look great too. We are currently looking for a new car. This is kinda on the short list.

http://www.allclassifieds.com.au/ac/ac0033?cid=122281369&imageId=2496610
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: oldfart on September 02, 2009, 07:21:46 pm: The "sprinter" is more practical .... more head room and space ie postie van
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: NSR on September 02, 2009, 07:56:19 pm: It all depends on what ya ride :D
(http://i712.photobucket.com/albums/ww125/NoelSR/005.jpg?t=1251885095)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Noel on September 02, 2009, 08:24:12 pm: Just pick up a VW transporter,( which I think is what Doc has Pictured)
all white, Nice wheels ,
will get the semi camper conversion with fold out bed and swivel front seats, side awning for parking the bikes
stove /BBQ and fridge,
Home away from Home ,
Bit like a Mobile shed.
Noel
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: maicomc490t on September 03, 2009, 10:21:35 am: Speaking of utes or vans.

Do any of you know of a decent old Holden ute or WINDOWLESS van for sale. I want one as a general VMX hauler and a promo for my blasting business.

Due to preferences I am only interested in FE FC FB EK

Any leads on a good vehicle would be appreciated but pleas it must be a good one and preferably registered with little or no body issues.

Mechanically, so long as it runs and drives reasonably that's OK

Cheers guys

Dave Mac :)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: firko on September 03, 2009, 10:48:42 am: Hey Dave I was driving out the back of Londonderry a couple of weeks ago and came accross a bloke dragging an FC panel van out of a blackberry hedge. As he was doing the dragging with an identical black Cherokee as mine I had to stop and have a gander and talk Jeeps ::) (that was my excuse for being nosy, anyway). The van had been parked since 1974 (going by the rego sticker)and had rusted Tasman 'mag' wheels, a 179 with twin strommies, alloy rocker cover and a really nice set of extractors. That was the upside, the downside was that the old van had absolutely no floors in the front whatsoever. By the looks of it someone had started a floor replacement but never got past oxying out the old floor. The old van was pretty much past any restoration but the bloke dragging it out didn't mind as he only wanted the bodyshell to build a drag car with a big block Chevy.
This has zero to do with the thread or your needs of course but I thought I'd pass on yet another "things you see" yarn.

ps...Have you had a look at my Ducati engine yet?
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: oldskool on September 04, 2009, 09:30:11 pm: hi all my trusty tow car is a mazda b2600 dual cab large alloy tray.holds 3 bikes all the gear goes in the back seat,was a bit high at the back but 2"lowering blocks fixed that,just did 700k round trip towed a trailer 5 bikes all up most of the camping gear for my family of 6 not a drama.good luck finding a windowless van in any early holden,my brothers ek mad and knows a lot of people that own early holdens he goes to summernats every year mostly in ek holdens ill ask him to keep an eye out for you maico good luck.cheers gary
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mainline on September 06, 2009, 04:58:28 pm: this'll be my bike transporter one day. Apologies for the photo quality (mobile phone), and the number of weeds on the driveway at the time ::)

A customised '56 Ford Mainline. Dodge phoenix rear lights, jag headlights (in the guards which were in the shed at the time of the photo, 3 inch chop, 59 Chev front bumper as a grill bar, etc... All to be finished off as a 50's style custom.

(http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn38/mainline_bucket/mainline.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: BAHNZY on September 06, 2009, 05:34:14 pm: I'm silll trying to workout how i can put a towbar on the R35 GTR so i can tow the Hot dog Trailer. I can then retire the Navara 2.5 Dual cab. :D
(Hot Dog Trailer is a 2x2x5.5 Mt enclosed trailer)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: subanator on September 07, 2009, 01:38:19 am: I have gone the VAN just recently, Hiace LWB '02, on LPG. Costs f'all to fill and run.
Its plain, no bling, gets no attention - for very good reason. Vans with SHIFT or BIG MX logos attract attention, get followed home, bit like utes and trailers with bikes on the back. May as well wave a white flag and say "come n get em", cos when you are not home one day/night, the bikes may just disappear - not good. (this all depends on where you live and ride, and security arrangements at your place)

The best part is apart from security on the road, is no more tenting at away rides, somewhere to dry to get changed, nothing to tow.

Apart from awnings that every man and his dog seems to have, I went with a Fly awning that attaches to any vehicle from BCF:
http://www.bcf.com.au/Products/TentGuide/GazebosScreenhousesBeachDomes/BCF_RV_Shade.aspx

Or you can now get the bigger one:
http://www.bcf.com.au/Products/TentGuide/GazebosScreenhousesBeachDomes/BCF_RV_Shade_Deluxe.aspx
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: oldskool on September 07, 2009, 08:40:15 am: hey mainline kool ute love to see it when finished.security good at my place 4x night vision cameras 5x birds heavy duty lifting chain and very good lock.dont laugh about the birds already got broken into if it werent for the birds we wouldve been cleaned out while we were in bed asleep
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: firko on September 07, 2009, 10:24:11 am: Hey Mainline, your ute is too cool. The perfect pre 65 transporter.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: gilletty on September 07, 2009, 06:22:17 pm: I have had vans for a long time now, Mainly for work, but great with the bikes too. Good for getting out of the weather, sun or rain. Also sleeping in, but they do get bloody cold. Need to fully line inside.
I have a vito. Just don't touch auto's and petrol versions. Cost me 5500 for a new transmission a few years ago and is stuffed again. For 10-15 you will be looking at older models in the vito.
I have been looking at updating myself and been checking out the Hyundi 2.5 TD. 5 year 160k warranty. Heard good reports about them. Spoke to a courier who has already done 160 000k and besides service never touched a thing. They are in the high twenties second hand . Every bit as good as the vito though in my opinion and a shit load cheaper.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: VMX247 on June 29, 2011, 05:10:46 pm: Quote from: NSR on September 02, 2009, 07:56:19 pm
It all depends on what ya ride :D
(http://i712.photobucket.com/albums/ww125/NoelSR/005.jpg?t=1251885095)

fully loaded and ready to roll..thanks for the pic "oldmate" 8)

(http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/ec0eb65b2802c61d7bdca176058dace8.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Stan S on June 29, 2011, 05:49:02 pm: Or if your into German cars and Japenese bikes then what about this VW Transporter ;D

Stan.

(http://i991.photobucket.com/albums/af39/gf079/VWtransporter.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on June 29, 2011, 06:31:09 pm: Japanese call these custom Hiaces 'Prawntails" .... while bit low on ground clearance they come with handy bike rack and you can hang your wet riding gear off the tail for the trip home ;D

(http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/enda_meshaft/toyotahiace.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Mike52 on June 29, 2011, 06:37:06 pm: Quote from: marcFX on June 29, 2011, 06:31:09 pm
Japanese call these custom Hiaces 'Prawntails" .... while bit low on ground clearance they come with handy bike rack and you can hang your wet riding gear off the tail for the trip home ;D

(http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/enda_meshaft/toyotahiace.jpg)
Neat. :o
Imagine trying to get that registered in Aus.
Yer rite ::)
How about reverse parking. How about any sort of parking.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mx250 on June 29, 2011, 06:38:13 pm: Quote from: marcFX on June 29, 2011, 06:31:09 pm
Japanese call these custom Hiaces 'Prawntails" .... while bit low on ground clearance they come with handy bike rack and you can hang your wet riding gear off the tail for the trip home ;D

(http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/enda_meshaft/toyotahiace.jpg)
Calling it anything other than 'stupid' or 'ugly' would be generous :-[.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: ian on June 29, 2011, 07:48:01 pm: Quote from: Gilletty on September 07, 2009, 06:22:17 pm
I have had vans for a long time now, Mainly for work, but great with the bikes too. Good for getting out of the weather, sun or rain. Also sleeping in, but they do get bloody cold. Need to fully line inside.
I have a vito. Just don't touch auto's and petrol versions. Cost me 5500 for a new transmission a few years ago and is stuffed again. For 10-15 you will be looking at older models in the vito.
I have been looking at updating myself and been checking out the Hyundi 2.5 TD. 5 year 160k warranty. Heard good reports about them. Spoke to a courier who has already done 160 000k and besides service never touched a thing. They are in the high twenties second hand . Every bit as good as the vito though in my opinion and a shit load cheaper.

we have a hyundi iload your rite good van but ours was off the road four 8 weeks four timing chains they have three off them just out off warranty. blow one injector out off the block one week four parts. $900 four brake shoes had to wait a week four brake shoes. 8 weeks four timing chains .now im in gladstone and the dealer sent one off his boys out to tell me they didnt no how to do the timing chains so that took a week. rang rockhampton dealer told me two weeks .sat out the back four the next 6 weeks until they got the parts then told me on the thursday week 7 the altrernater belt was stuffed but they got it over nite .now the good news is that our van is the only van in austraila that has done this .not true .so after hiring a van four 8 weeks and paying four the timing chains to be fitted about $9000 .now the clutch is worn and and the struts and rubbers are worn so im hoping i can find the parts on ebay i wish .buy the way the newer vans you have to remove the motor to do the timing chains .buy the way my 82cr250 wont fit unles you pull the front end down .buy a toyota .
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: VMX247 on June 29, 2011, 07:59:23 pm: Quote from: marcFX on June 29, 2011, 06:31:09 pm
Japanese call these custom Hiaces 'Prawntails" .... while bit low on ground clearance they come with handy bike rack and you can hang your wet riding gear off the tail for the trip home ;D

Ahhh the modern day Blue Sandman ;D... Cool !! take the bits off the back end and its a cool rig.
I've seen one a bit the same,with tinted windows @ CD8 heading south to do a road run back to Vic with a load of vmx bikes and bits ;)
cheers A
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: 4V5 on June 29, 2011, 08:09:19 pm: There's always a way to get to a ride ;) :D

(http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g3/steelboots/SP_A0430.jpg)

and proof it's all in there* ;D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHjE7mDrWVM

*front forks and wheel were on the back floor

Cheers!
Leslie
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Mike52 on June 29, 2011, 08:18:02 pm: Could always buy an old Jag.
Guy next to us at CD7 started pulling bikes and bits out of his Jag .
A couple of bikes and tons of bits , we just sat there and watched .
He only had the drivers seat in it.
He was at CD8 but I didn,t see what he was driving.

I had a Merc Sprinter 10/14k to the litre , 145kph easy , had 58 sheets of roofing iron 3.5mtr long in her and she didn,t mind at all. Good aircon , brilliant radio , heap of room , real nice turbo whistle.

Rats ate it. :o
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Stan S on June 29, 2011, 09:37:05 pm: Quote from: Mike52 on June 29, 2011, 08:18:02 pm
Could always buy an old Jag.
Guy next to us at CD7 started pulling bikes and bits out of his Jag .
A couple of bikes and tons of bits , we just sat there and watched .
He only had the drivers seat in it.
He was at CD8 but I didn,t see what he was driving.

I had a Merc Sprinter 10/14k to the litre , 145kph easy , had 58 sheets of roofing iron 3.5mtr long in her and she didn,t mind at all. Good aircon , brilliant radio , heap of room , real nice turbo whistle.

Rats ate it. :o

Mike52, I remember that guy in the Jag at CD7 he was next to us also. He was trying to sell or give away an SL125 all weekend. I did talk to him at CD8 and I think he had a trailer behind the Jag this year ;D

Anyway this is my new(old) Toyota Hiace SBV bike transporter I picked up at Coonabarabran on the way up to CD8. It is a 98 model with only a 116,000 klm's and I did 3000 klm's in it before we got home and it is a great van.

Stan.

(http://i991.photobucket.com/albums/af39/gf079/CD8%20pics/SAM_0756.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Bioflex on June 29, 2011, 10:40:19 pm: I've got a mid 90's E2000 which I livened up with a supercharged 3.6 litre out of a statesman.
It runs more boost than standard as well as a few other mods, while having near 300hp is overkill, the massive amount of torque is fantastic when it and the trailer are loaded up with bikes.

The biggest issue I have found with vans before the turn of the millenium is that they were always very under powdered. 1.6 and 2 litre motors in many cases, 1.5 tonne vehicles become loaded up to well over 2 tonnes, it is just too much work for the little engines.
Hopefully the new turbo diesels run a bit better.

I've always thought there would be a decent market for a good 4wd van in Australia. Bike riders would lap it up, as would many golden oldies wanting to tow the van around Australia. I've put some real thought into bringing one in from the U.s but the left to right hand conversion would be a huge pain in the ass.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: christianB on June 30, 2011, 06:48:31 am: daimler benz 508 from 1977 , 2007 in marocco

total weight 5t.
diesel engine 3,8l., 4cyl.
86hp by 2800 rpm

(http://www.fotos-hochladen.net/uploads/1a0565el3fva7ub.jpg) (http://www.fotos-hochladen.net)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mx250 on June 30, 2011, 08:05:02 am: Quote from: Bioflex on June 29, 2011, 10:40:19 pm
I've got a mid 90's E2000 which I livened up with a supercharged 3.6 litre out of a statesman.
8), Bio, you are the master of the understatement :D.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Stan S on June 30, 2011, 08:11:59 am: Quote from: christianB on June 30, 2011, 06:48:31 am
(http://www.fotos-hochladen.net/uploads/1a0565el3fva7ub.jpg) (http://www.fotos-hochladen.net)

christianB, I love the front left self leveling device :D :D

Stan.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on June 30, 2011, 09:31:30 am: Quote from: Stan S on June 29, 2011, 09:37:05 pm
Anyway this is my new(old) Toyota Hiace SBV bike transporter I picked up at Coonabarabran on the way up to CD8. It is a 98 model with only a 116,000 klm's and I did 3000 klm's in it before we got home and it is a great van.
Stan.

Definitely the early 98 Hiace without the impact bumpers was much better looking, petrol option is handy in NZ where in there infinite wisdom the Labor Party imposed an additional tax on Diesel vehicles.

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u59/rcringo/HIACE_01.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mx250 on June 30, 2011, 09:40:15 am: Quote from: marcFX on June 30, 2011, 09:31:30 am

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u59/rcringo/HIACE_01.jpg)
More like an Art Attack I would have thought ::)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on June 30, 2011, 10:07:25 am: The custom Hiace scene is still pretty big in Japan ::) Anyway to my way of thinking the ideal bike hauler these days needs to be secure, too easy for bikes to disappear so the lower profile you can keep in your hood the better. I haul Harleys about as well so the less attention your vehicle gets the better.
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on June 30, 2011, 12:14:06 pm: Looks great, whose Greg Flood ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Mike52 on June 30, 2011, 02:02:13 pm: You can just see it can,t you. What fun :)

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u59/rcringo/HIACE_01.jpg)

(http://i712.photobucket.com/albums/ww125/NoelSR/cd82036.jpg)
photo provided by NSR
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: d veda on June 30, 2011, 04:37:41 pm: ME MATE MAD MARTY SAID " ILL BE THERE"
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/img345.jpg)
AND HE WAS
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: d veda on June 30, 2011, 04:50:58 pm: MY OLD PRE VMX JO BEDFORD. BIT SLOW BUT PRETTY COOL.
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/img344.jpg)
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/img343.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: d veda on June 30, 2011, 04:58:50 pm: MY NEW WHEELS 1982 CHEV 350 BIT QUICK BUT HEAPS OF FUN.
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/IMG_1722.jpg)
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/IMG_1693.jpg)
(http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k603/warrenrm370/IMG_1678.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Davey Crocket on June 30, 2011, 04:59:51 pm: Use to service them when they where new - J1/ J2/ J3 Bedfords......Got a big Transit van to move my shit around.....its good when you get home and cant be stuffed unpacking......a mans not a man unless he has a van or ute........trailers are for the freaks like the sideshow people!!! ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: steve234 on June 30, 2011, 05:07:24 pm: love that bedford!
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Bioflex on June 30, 2011, 05:20:19 pm: There's something seriously cool about seeing VMX bikes hauled around by period vans and trucks.
You'd have to dress the part though with open face helmet, leather boots etc
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mainline on June 30, 2011, 06:35:30 pm: I've probably put this up before but I can't find it now?
Thanks to Jackie Mac for the only decent shot taken while I had it ::) ;D

(http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn38/mainline_bucket/fxutesm.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: YZ250H on June 30, 2011, 06:54:17 pm: That photo is obviously taken before it decided to reverse itself down the street, across a busy road and through someone's fence ::)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on June 30, 2011, 08:13:35 pm: Quote from: Doggy Digger on June 30, 2011, 12:45:09 pm
... and everyone thought it was Bert's son Gary ... winning yet again

Hell I thought someone had just mis spelled Gary's name ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: matcho mick on July 01, 2011, 05:11:46 pm: check these puppies out,hmmm V8 sounds the go, :P
http://www.nissancommercialvehicles.com/?site=test05252011
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: mx250 on July 01, 2011, 05:47:56 pm: Quote from: matcho mick on July 01, 2011, 05:11:46 pm
check these puppies out,hmmm V8 sounds the go, :P
http://www.nissancommercialvehicles.com/?site=test05252011
V8

Displacement/Liters 5.6L :o
Horsepower 317 @ 5200 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) (V8) - 385 @ 3400 rpm
Maximum Engine Speed - 6,000 rpm
Valvetrain - DOHC, Silent Chain, Single-Stage, 4-Valves per Cylinder 8).
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: oldfart on July 01, 2011, 06:03:39 pm: http://www.nissanusa.com/titan/specifications-crew-cab.html?next=vlptrim.specs
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Bioflex on July 01, 2011, 10:25:29 pm: The prices the yanks pay is the craziest part!
Those Nissan vans are $25,000 new, something similar in Aus would be at least $50,000.

The biggest rip offs are reserved for the poor suckers who shell out for F350's and so on.

In Australia a 2006 dual cab - the guy wants $112,000! http://www.carsales.com.au/all-cars/private/details.aspx?Cr=5&R=9142015&keywords=&trecs=34&__sid=130E756E73B0&__Ns=pCar_RankSort_Int32|1||pCar_PriceSort_Decimal|1||pCar_Make_String|0||pCar_Model_String|0&__Qpb=1&tsrc=allcarhome&__Nne=15&seot=1&__N=1216%201246%201247%201252%201282%204294966463%204294966062&silo=1011

In the U.S - the guy wants $27,000 http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Ford-F-350-POWERSTROKE-06-F350-KING-RANCH-CREW-DUALLY-VERY-CLEAN-LOW-MILES-81K-_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQhashZitem2c5d960e18QQitemZ190548676120QQptZUSQ5fCarsQ5fTrucks

It's hilarious, both 2006 models, both dual cabs, both king ranches, both just on 80,000 km's yet the one which has been imported to Aus and converted to RHD is over 4 times the price!
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Hardex on July 02, 2011, 09:07:06 am: Back in the 70s going to Wallan to race the xr75 and my Bros MR50,We went in the "ambo" .Dad drove and me and a mate in front and Bro in the "Dicky" seat in the rear along side him two bikes in the back .Later on we used a trailer as well because more kids from the neibourhood wanted to race.Back in the 70s this was the only way to travel. ;D

(http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt12/hardexgun/scanambo3.jpg)
(http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt12/hardexgun/scanambo2.jpg)
(http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt12/hardexgun/scanambo4.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Marc.com on July 02, 2011, 09:26:10 am: Er yeah I had money for the bike, or car not both, here is period bike hauler with bonnet in the normal Austin motors position ;D Natch it used more oil than petrol...... but did have 5 speeds

(http://i1123.photobucket.com/albums/l551/65beetle/Austin1800.jpg)
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: Davey Crocket on July 02, 2011, 10:43:05 am: And your still farking with shit 30 years later.....old habits die hard eh mArc.... ;D
Title: Re: Utes or Vans
Post by: VMX247 on March 01, 2013, 07:06:27 pm: (http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/SnipImage3_zpse148fae3.jpg)
(http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/FOTW_zpsc72ad83c.jpg)
OHH GEEZ sorry dont know how that friday arvo furfee got in there will remove it when time permits.(the tall one is very good lookin though) cheers A
(http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r259/vmx247/ajsinvw_zps35ee8e92.jpg)