Conversion Van

by Steve
(East Coast)

I stumbled upon this site while searching for my next surf vehicle. I currently have a conversion van which has been great. Since it was a gift,I decided to customize it exclusively for surf missions. I also have an old saab 900 hatch for solo paddle-outs which works fine for one longboard by just tilting the front seatback and folding the rear bench seat into position. Otherwise, I have yet to find a vehicle that has the same versatility as a full size van.

Being able to have everything locked up is THE key feature. Fuel mileage is tough but well worth it. Once you load up with 3-4 guys with gear, 2-3 boards each, bins and bags you are happy the have the capacity and heavy duty build of a full size van. Any VW or mini van would bottom out on poor roads with that kind of load.

The proverbial conversion van often has the manual fold out bench/bed which is ideal for knockin'down for a nap after a session. I can easily fit 2 stacked 10' boards up the middle and underneath the bed frame with no problem (fins removed). The captain's swivel seats make it easy to change in/out of a wetsuit. There is plenty of room for everything else: coolers, fishing rods, places to hang wetsuits, bins, towels, etc. Its like a rolling surf garage. It is really nice having all the gear you would need in one place for a quick getaway. I could write a book about it. All the dawn patrol hurricane swells I've waited out high and dry on a soft futon when my bro's were in tents. :P

Heres a link to my current surf whip with photos to give you an idea.
http://www.cardomain.com/ride/706078/1979-dodge-ram-van-150/page-2
Cheers.