{"database": "surfing", "table": "posts", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where thread_id = 4112", "rows": [["119317", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 1, "cuda", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T16:59:22-0400", "my Vanagon was T-boned a few months back by a distracted phonebot who ran a red.\n\n\n\nno serious damage other than destroying my classic dub. \n\n\n\nnow after months of back and forth with insurance co's I finally got a proper settlement and shopping for a replacement.  \n\n\n\nas much a i would like to get another of the same (subaru powered Vanagon) I leaning more toward a more contemporary option. I havent entirely ruled out the Vanagon but here are the practical choices that I'm considering \n\n\n\n\nSuby Outback \n- this would be my 4th - great cars just leaning toward something different.\n\n\n\n\nFord Flex\n - like it, great stlying and lots of interior space. but  its a Ford and the mpg is <20\n\n\n\n\nFord Transit Wagon\n - like it, good mpg might be a tad cramped for second row passengers and yeah its a Ford. My Ranger was theshit but know Ford can be hit or miss\n\n\n\n\nNissan Quest\n - at the moment 1st choice (2013-16) under valued, v.g. mpg all rear seat drop and good comfy interior- not sure about reliability havent had a Nissan hardbody seemed bomb proof\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nso yeah anyone got an opinion  - its got to be able to deal with NE winters"], ["119318", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 2, "pintail", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T17:06:09-0400", "Hard to beat a Subaru in a 4 season environment.  I'd also check out a Toyota FJ Cruiser. Very competent vehicle, not so good for small parking lot maneuvers, but everything's a trade-off in one way or another."], ["119319", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 3, "sightpoint", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T17:12:08-0400", "I would personally skip anything Ford because, as you said, they're a roulette wheel.  Double cab Tacoma with a cap?  Subys are awesome and hard to beat.  But... I have a 2004 Sienna minivan and I love it. Can sleep in it, plenty of space, highly convertible for storage, comes in an AWD version.  But it's a minivan, so if you're the aesthetic type, maybe not bueno.  Then again, you're considering a Ford Flex."], ["119320", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 4, "Croweater", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T17:25:18-0400", "If you want to go minivan I'd go with Toyota Sienna.  AWD and of course it's a Toyota. I have owned a Nissan Quest for a short time. Not a big fan and the interior was a little cheap as far as quality. Not like Honda or Toyota."], ["119321", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 5, "strez", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T17:54:44-0400", "Honda Element?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI love my Forester, but I think you've been there, done that...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMine's an XT, tons of fun. Turbo fun."], ["119322", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 6, "kpd73", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T18:08:29-0400", "https://providence.craigslist.org/cto/d/toyota-previa-le-sc-all-wheel/6248002695.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n^ snag this and go to Indo for a month with the rest. The Previa is full tits with all the seats out. 4wd and Cavernous. and Leather.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://providence.craigslist.org/rvs/d/1986-toyota-camper/6249953344.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nor...snag This and go Wherever you want. In head turning Style!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNo need to thank me. Just helping out."], ["119323", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 7, "SeniorGrom", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T18:08:52-0400", "Not sure what this is but got my attention when I was in the Outer Banks.  Toyota/Subaru more practical."], ["119324", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 8, "Wade In The Waves", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T18:26:23-0400", "I know they aren't on your list, but two that I myself am looking at for a new surf rig as I am racking way too many miles on my new truck:\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLand Rover LR3.  They can be had fairly reasonable and the aftermarket is pretty big.  They will go pretty much anywhere that you want and the aftermarket support is pretty great.  Land Rovers get a bad rep, but 2004 model years are leaps and bounds far greater and more dependable than 2004 and older.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nToyota Sequoia (1st Gen).  Reasonable and other than the normal replacement of the timing belt and water pump, are virtually maintenance free until 300k miles plus.  Very under rated vehicle."], ["119325", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 9, "Flip756", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T18:29:50-0400", "If anyone has questions about Land Rovers feel free to message me, I've been with the brand for a long time. Tons of personal experience, bloody knuckles, lumps on my head, and smiles at the end."], ["119326", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 10, "70s SanO", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T18:45:08-0400", "Best surf vehicle we've had was a Chevy Astro/GMC Safari.  I think the last year made was 2005, so it will take a bit to find a good low mileage one.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJohn"], ["119328", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 11, "cuda", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T19:00:37-0400", "thanks - interesting suggestions.\n\n\n\nthis will be a daily driver and I drive 300-400 miles a week so need something that is getting ~24 mpg or better."], ["119330", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 12, "Tully", "Aug 4, 2017", "2017-08-04T19:10:16-0400", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n    \n Volvo V90"], ["119337", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 13, "Ticowannabe", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-04T21:03:44-0400", "this works for my winters but i guess this is not in the running in RI\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["119340", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 14, "Surph", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-04T21:59:07-0400", "Tully said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 2849\n\n    \n Volvo V90\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nVolvo is also a Ford....post 1999"], ["119344", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 15, "pefa", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T08:22:31-0400", "Yes Wade - absolutely love my old '02 Sequoia, a grizzly scooby doo, mpg is crapola, but basically a 4Runner on roids- built on Tundra chassis, so real deal\n\n\n\nHated my Nissan, all surface, no substance and a pus, go Toyo, there's a reason pretty much every 3rd world technical is helux. Honda Element, although harkened a lego-mobile, thing was a beast and miss that one too\n\n\n\nA pimped out awd sienna can be quite gangsta indeed.....\n\n\n\nDoubt it cause of mpg, but if u have any interest in Sequioa take her for a test drive and check er out anytime. I've come to settle on accepting added value of enjoying benefits of said beasts and finding it worth it to cost a extra few hundo $/yr totaled out to get all the enjoyment and added benefits. Couple of bucks more per fillup, but potential exponentially increased- I tighten my belt elsewhere, worth it imho.....\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBtw, I got a guy......   he's got a lot and can scope auctions, other lots, etc if you decide (in southern MA, long reach)\n\n\n\nGL brother"], ["119345", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 16, "MB_longsk8r", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T09:43:44-0400", "I'm with you guys on the \"it's a Ford so...\" thing. I've had two Focus' (Foci?) a 2001 and a 2012. The 2001 was a great little commuter and was pretty bulletproof. The 2012.. Eh, not so much.\n\n\n\nI'd really love to get a Westy or a Subie but a little beater truck is probably more realistic."], ["119346", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 17, "dingpatch", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T10:26:09-0400", "Honda Odyssey."], ["119347", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 18, "jbb", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T10:28:36-0400", "Surph said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            Volvo is also a Ford....post 1999\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nNot anymore. \nVolvo\n is owned by Chinese-automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, aka Geely.  \nGeely paid $1.8 billion for Volvo in 2010\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFord paid $6 billion in 1999 to acquire Volvo.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDoh!"], ["119348", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 19, "Guest", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T10:50:48-0400", "My baja bug blew its engine in the desert earlier this year and I am looking at one of these.   Rock solid despite what some people say.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["119355", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 20, "Surfnfish", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T11:42:32-0400", "Subaru is having  noted a well documented problem with excessive oil consumption due to a problem with faulty rings, my daughter is very frustrated trying to get the dealer to address it.. \"a quart of oil every 900 miles is normal\"...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOther then off roading, cannot beat a Sienna van..fit an 11' board inside, handle great, plenty of power, 26 mpg..and has a timing chain, no timing belts to replace.  Other then oil changes, there is zero maintenance on them..\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd if you need off road capability, was very surprised when I used my son's 4wd element during one visit..surprising comfortable, LB fit inside.."], ["119365", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 21, "cuda", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T15:16:01-0400", "what year Subaru?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhard to argue about the Sienna. I just dont like the that the 2nd row seats dont drop to the floor for hauling stuff.  This is the main reason Im looking more at the Quest.  I would love a Hybrid Pacifica but too much scratch.\n\n\n\nMy budget is $20k max\n\n\n\nlike to get closer to $15"], ["119367", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 22, "Surfertom", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T16:07:52-0400", "This string calls for The Vanagon Song."], ["119368", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 23, "Wade In The Waves", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T16:09:39-0400", "I have to say, I also get up to 23 mpg in my 2016 Ram 2500 4x4 with the Cummings diesel. Plenty of room and the kids choice for road trips every time. I get 18-19 mpg in the city too. Pretty amazing. Oh, I have a high rise shell or would be doing even better. I say this, as sometimes the vehicles you may not thing of are actually pretty good."], ["119374", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 24, "cuda", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T18:14:20-0400", "thanks Wade - not so much that I'm not thinking about trucks like you suggest. it's that they are way outside my target price. the Dodge Ram 2500 is 2x the max. I'm willing to pay. @ $45k there are lots of \"fun\" choices."], ["119376", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 25, "Surfnfish", "Aug 5, 2017", "2017-08-05T19:07:15-0400", "issue is with  2011 - 2014 Sub's.. my daughters Outback is a 2014\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nyea, nice to have the fold flat chairs..middle row does fold and tilt forward, and we just keep the middle center seat stored in the garage..check Consumer Reports and JD Power, Nissan Quest has pretty poor ratings for mechanical issues..Sienna highest rating across the board..I personally like the 2008' - 2009' body style and interior better then the changeover in 2010, bit trimmer, and 2008 is when they went to the timing chain driven 285 hp 6 cyl, which is the best engine Toy has ever made..pick up a nice one for under 20K for sure.."], ["119385", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 26, "sightpoint", "Aug 6, 2017", "2017-08-05T22:16:12-0400", "I took the second row seats out of my sienna entirely.  It still seats 5 when the back row seats are up, but I usually just have one of them upright for easier winter wetsuit changing. But yeah, having them fold completely flat would be ideal."], ["119387", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 27, "Mcrockett77", "Aug 6, 2017", "2017-08-05T22:54:16-0400", "We have a 2013 flex. It's been a good car with no real issues in the 40k miles we've had it. Lots of room inside and low so easy to load boards on the rack. However, we average around 20 mpg with mixed city and highway driving."], ["119479", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 28, "Fishy", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-08T21:26:55-0400", "2014 Ford Flex Ecoboost AWD. I love it! Lots of power and good handling for a flying brick. True about the mpg. I'd get better mileage if I wasn't hammering the throttle all the time. Also can load several big boards inside when needed."], ["119481", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 29, "weberrider", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-08T22:42:18-0400", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n50,000 on my 2015 and problem free. 258,000 on my son's 2004 and still on the original engine and trans. I can fit a 10'0 inside. No oil consumption problem with 2015 and up, but watch out for 2011-2014. Pretty hard to beat most Subi's"], ["119482", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 30, "WhiteRussian", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-08T22:44:42-0400", "Obviously, it's all about preferences - what is more important as a primary function.  miniVan vs SUV vs wagon ..etc.\n\n\n\nI'm a wagon guy. 2006 Volvo V70 - myself.  2005 XC70 - my son (who was debating if he wants to have a wagon, but now he loves it ). Can fit 10 footer (and  1-2 shorter board on top of it) inside with one more seat still available and still cruise at speed limit. Pretty much the same car in production since 2001, all the way to 2015. Awesome seats, AWD. Very big storage area, or fold rear seats and you have completely flat steeping surface for two. \n\n\n\nAWD is not as good as Audi (not sure about Subie) but still sufficient enough in NE.\n\n\n\nI was thinking about getting 2015 (last year with 3.0 liters turbo engine) but still not ready to give up the manual tranny."], ["119487", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 31, "PeakMaster", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T06:56:38-0400", "You can bank on a a head gasket job on a Subaru with the boxer four. Google it. Problem is not resolved and has plagued them since the late 90's. Between 90-120K miles.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you're  looking for strictly a surf vehicle, a decent used Volvo wagon...older is better.\n\n\n\nThe 9 series are big, boxy (\"Bricks\") but have bulletproof engines and transmissions and are roomy. The non turbo fours can't get out of their own way but will get you wherever reliably.  The 8 series are probably easier to find these days. Many still have old school rain gutters for real racks too.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJust flipped my 2006 XC90 2.5T over to my son. It's been super reliable, tons of room and minimal cost to own. Mileage...18 mpg. Behind the curve with Bluetooth. ..but aftermarket solutions work OK. There are a lot of used ones out there. The 2.5 engine and drive train are the most reliable.\n\n\n\nWhat White Russian said too. I think the AWD was stolen directly from Audio as was the five cylinder engine design. The AWD uses the Haldex power transfer system just like Audi....but there are likely more refinements in the Quatro system."], ["119488", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 32, "GearNut", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T08:14:51-0400", "I think it is funny. I have had six Subarus, most were Outbacks. All went over 300,000 miles and none ever had an oil leak or needed a head gasket. In fact the first one went over 600,000 miles with the original motor, trans and even turbo, but never had to do the head gasket.  That said, I changed my oil and filter every 3,000 miles and used quality oil and filter.  While I love my Subarus, I don't think I would buy a used one.  If you don't take care of them, those aluminum blocks can be a nightmare.  But if you are buying new and take care of it, they are hard to beat. I put multiple long boards inside and have as many as eleven on the roof, I will have to look for that picture."], ["119489", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 33, "PeakMaster", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T08:40:24-0400", "GearNut said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            I think it is funny. I have had six Subarus, most were Outbacks. All went over 300,000 miles and none ever had an oil leak or needed a head gasket. In fact the first one went over 600,000 miles with the original motor, trans and even turbo, but never had to do the head gasket.  That said, I changed my oil and filter every 3,000 miles and used quality oil and filter.  While I love my Subarus, I don't think I would buy a used one.  If you don't take care of them, those aluminum blocks can be a nightmare.  But if you are buying new and take care of it, they are hard to beat. I put multiple long boards inside and have as many as eleven on the roof, I will have to look for that picture.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nI had one. One of the few cars I bought new. 98 Outback. Solid car but for the head gasket ar 90k. Found a guy in PA that only worked on Subarus. Used a Ford F150 and a trailer and would pick your car up, tow it to his place near Reading I think and do the head gasket job.... $1100. Only issue I had with that car...couldn't change all 4 plugs myself as I recall."], ["119490", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 34, "Roadmaster", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T09:06:42-0400", "For the budget minded you cannot beat a full sized american station wagon. The last full sized wagons were the Buick and Chevy up till 96 and the latter years featured a de-tuned LT1 Corvette engine with 260hp. Oldsmobile also made the same body style but only in 91 and 92. My 1992 Buick Roadmaster will fit an 11' board without the fin inside the car with tailgate closed. My 10'4\" JP Ka Po'e Ae'a fits inside with the fin on, I think a board up to 10'8\" would fit inside with the fin on. My 92 has the lower power 350cu engine with only 180hp but decent torque at 300lb.ft. I looked for one with the better engine but could not find one that was not ragged out or overpriced. The wagons with the corvette engine cost up to $5000 more for a creampuff. I got my 92 estate wagon from a little old lady in Delaware for $5K who kept it in the garage, with 93K miles. Leather seats, power everything and runs like a top, about 18mpg on the highway, but no monthly payments to worry about so gas is not an issue. I got very dark tinted windows on the rear windows that keep things cool and still pass state inspection. Its my ride\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["119491", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 35, "shadydave", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T09:08:54-0400", "Bought our 08 Outback used in 2013 from original owner with 80,000 miles maintained at dealer since new as all records came with the car. Ended up doing head caskets,cat heat shields and timing belt service ($1800 @ dealer) in 2014 with 84,000 miles. It seems most owners get rid of them when it's time for the timing belt service. Other than that it's been a good car but we only put about 5,000 miles a year on it."], ["119493", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 36, "Bighouse", "Aug 9, 2017", "2017-08-09T09:47:36-0400", "shadydave said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            Bought our 08 Outback used in 2013 from original owner with 80,000 miles maintained at dealer since new as all records came with the car. Ended up doing head caskets,cat heat shields and timing belt service ($1800 @ dealer) in 2014 with 84,000 miles. It seems most owners get rid of them when it's time for the timing belt service. Other than that it's been a good car but we only put about 5,000 miles a year on it.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nI had a 1st generation outback limited with the weather band radio.  Was an incredible surf car. Especially with leather heated seats in the winter out here. I took her to 200K with no real issues, other than hitting a few dear. Sold her for 1k to a young kid. I heard through grape vine he destroyed it within a month."], ["120062", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 37, "Tenfooter", "Aug 19, 2017", "2017-08-18T22:23:28-0400", "Mercedes 300 TD wagon 82-84\n\n\n\ncoolest surf car on earth\n\n\n\ndon't need 4 wd, \n\n\n\nsurf and snow never should be put together\n\n\n\nwhen did you see dewey weber or da bull paddling on a beach covered w snow?"], ["120063", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 38, "Flip756", "Aug 19, 2017", "2017-08-18T22:31:04-0400", "https://www.japaneseclassics.com/vehicle/1990-master-ace-surf/"], ["120069", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 39, "ac95", "Aug 19, 2017", "2017-08-19T01:06:16-0400", "Flip756 said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://www.japaneseclassics.com/vehicle/1990-master-ace-surf/\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nThat is awesome. It would be interesting to see it in the snow, but as a surfmobile, it would rock."], ["120072", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 40, "Flip756", "Aug 19, 2017", "2017-08-19T10:16:16-0400", "I've driven other Toyota 4wd vans in the snow and they do fine. Not the mindless point and shoot experience had with modern traction control and AWD systems but more of that mechanical 4wd feel."], ["120373", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 41, "ac95", "Aug 24, 2017", "2017-08-24T07:31:08-0400", "The Cargo version might be kinda cool. Only 5 years away.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttp://media.vw.com/release/1423/"], ["120402", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 42, "Proper_Mode", "Aug 24, 2017", "2017-08-24T11:47:50-0400", "I fit a 11' glider inside my volvo xc70."], ["120472", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 43, "rapier_96", "Aug 25, 2017", "2017-08-25T12:44:35-0400", "Wade In The Waves said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            I have to say, I also get up to 23 mpg in my 2016 Ram 2500 4x4 with the Cummings diesel. Plenty of room and the kids choice for road trips every time. I get 18-19 mpg in the city too. Pretty amazing. Oh, I have a high rise shell or would be doing even better. I say this, as sometimes the vehicles you may not thing of are actually pretty good.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nDo you have a picture of this?\n\n\n\nWould love to see it! !!"], ["120477", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 44, "Wade In The Waves", "Aug 25, 2017", "2017-08-25T13:47:49-0400", "The truck or a shot of the fuel mileage?"], ["120479", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 45, "rapier_96", "Aug 25, 2017", "2017-08-25T13:59:20-0400", "The truck & shell\n\n\n\nI'm thinking of getting a shell on my ram"], ["120495", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 46, "dsquare", "Aug 25, 2017", "2017-08-25T19:13:03-0400", "Saw this the other day while checking out the groins:"], ["120499", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 47, "hullogfish", "Aug 26, 2017", "2017-08-25T20:17:09-0400", "https://bringatrailer.com/2017/07/1...-1982-mitsubishi-mini-cab-kei-van-transformed-into-half-pint-renndienst-runner/\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRan across this during my vintage car webquests. Pretty cool"], ["120549", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 48, "T-Bone", "Aug 27, 2017", "2017-08-26T22:40:51-0400", "ac95 said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            The Cargo version might be kinda cool. Only 5 years away.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttp://media.vw.com/release/1423/\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nStill would have loved to see the gas/diesel version come to fruition."], ["120645", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 49, "Surfnfish", "Aug 30, 2017", "2017-08-30T15:48:07-0400", "https://portland.craigslist.org/clc/rvd/d/1990-toyota-lite-ace-camp/6273825073.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nwhy in hell US auto makers can't pull their heads out of their okoles and understand an updated version of something like this would be an instant hot seller.."], ["121262", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 50, "Flip756", "Sep 12, 2017", "2017-09-12T13:33:39-0400", "Another cool option that we never got stateside, with an efficient diesel to boot."], ["121268", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 51, "Clomics", "Sep 12, 2017", "2017-09-12T14:29:53-0400", "Go full O.J.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["121306", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 52, "Planktom", "Sep 13, 2017", "2017-09-13T04:33:22-0400", "Not sure if you guys have the Mitsubishi Delica over there?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThey are Jap imports in Europe and best explained as an off-road people carrier ('minivan'?)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 2.8 turbo diesel is a little thirsty - 25mpg - by Euro standards but at US prices, much more viable.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe seats fold down flat into a bed (need air mattress over top) and they are reliable too\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/reviews/mitsubishi/delica/"], ["125475", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 53, "Flip756", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-08T21:59:42-0500", "Maybe not the most gas efficient \n\n\n\n\nhttps://wilmington.craigslist.org/cto/d/1983-oldsmobile-wagon-400/6410222080.html"], ["125477", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 54, "ac95", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-08T22:16:47-0500", "Flip756 said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            Maybe not the most gas efficient\n\n\n\n\nhttps://wilmington.craigslist.org/cto/d/1983-oldsmobile-wagon-400/6410222080.html\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nDang, for the price(ish) to swap in a new sbc 350 in my 67 Chevy Van, I could have this!!!"], ["125479", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 55, "hullogfish", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-08T22:38:02-0500", "Subaru is obviously still a great choice but I recently got a Civic hatchback. Tons of space and you can make it work with logs and two guys inside. Turbo fun with great mileage if you take it easy too."], ["125484", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 56, "Wade In The Waves", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-09T01:32:27-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n    \n That Olds is sweet. It would sell in an hour to a Hipster on the West Coast, but will probably take a bit over here.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nI don't surf much anymore, but this here is the ultimate surf rig."], ["125494", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 57, "Surfnfish", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-09T12:03:15-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n1993 Toyota Hiace Camper Van 2.8L 4 cylinder 4x4..a guy in Portland imports 4x4 vans from Japan to sell here..as bitchen as they seem, about trying to find repair parts.."], ["125496", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 58, "ac95", "Dec 9, 2017", "2017-12-09T12:15:55-0500", "Surfnfish said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n1993 Toyota Hiace Camper Van 2.8L 4 cylinder 4x4..a guy in Portland imports 4x4 vans from Japan to sell here..as bitchen as they seem, about trying to find repair parts..\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nThe engine parts or the body parts?"], ["125515", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 59, "306Bing", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-09T20:04:41-0500", "Acura MDX, I bought a used one last year and I get about 24 mpg.  I too drive 200-300+ miles a week.  I have a wife and 3 kids so I needed the 3rd row.  I got my 9'10 board with a fin and I assume 10'+ without the fin."], ["125524", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 60, "Planktom", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-10T06:36:37-0500", "Surfnfish said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n1993 Toyota Hiace Camper Van 2.8L 4 cylinder 4x4..a guy in Portland imports 4x4 vans from Japan to sell here..as bitchen as they seem, about trying to find repair parts..\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nThese are great"], ["125525", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 61, "Roadmaster", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-10T09:15:31-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor east coasters there is a guy here in Virginia\n\n\n\nwho imports Japanese cars, most are low milage and many with diesel engines. I like this one; a MasterAce Surf Super Touring Van, 4wd drive, has low range 4wd and manual locking hubs. Looks cool but I agree parts may be a problem, although this importer has parts and can get parts.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttp://www.duncanimports.com/used/T...com/used/Toyota/1990-Toyota-MasterAce+Surf-271969b10a0e08bd2da27279108febf0.htm"], ["125547", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 62, "Mango Bill", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-10T15:44:58-0500", "Roadmaster said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 4633\n\n\n\n\n\nFor east coasters there is a guy here in Virginia\n\n\n\nwho imports Japanese cars, most are low milage and many with diesel engines. I like this one; a MasterAce Surf Super Touring Van, 4wd drive, has low range 4wd and manual locking hubs. Looks cool but I agree parts may be a problem, although this importer has parts and can get parts.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttp://www.duncanimports.com/used/T...com/used/Toyota/1990-Toyota-MasterAce+Surf-271969b10a0e08bd2da27279108febf0.htm\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nI like the Delica talked with a couple at beach who had on last week drove it from San Clemente to mainland Mexico and back without any problems parts common to Montero and trucks\n\n\n\n\nhttp://www.duncanimports.com/used/M...com/used/Mitsubishi/1990-Mitsubishi-Delica-85919d4b0a0e08be60bfb298e68a02cd.htm\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://www.delicausa.com/"], ["125549", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 63, "nedsurf", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-10T16:36:44-0500", "Paying that kind of $$ for a 27 year old vehicle that lived overseas most of it's life with an unknown service or usage record (it is designed as \"adventure\" off-the-road) doesn't make sense to me. Not to mention you will have all the disadvantages of a right hand drive in a left hand drive world. Too many other good options from my standpoint, but it isn't my money.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRegarding Acura MDX, same as my Honda Pilot, up to 11' board inside (without a passenger), roof rack for boards if you want, comfort, good mileage, quality (my 2004 has 170k miles) and a great family car to boot if that is a requirement. You can sleep in it too without dragging around all the weight, length and gas mileage of a van.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJust my opinion."], ["125556", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 64, "FirstPointEric", "Dec 10, 2017", "2017-12-10T18:47:27-0500", "If you can find one with less than 1,000,000 miles, these do nicely as surf mobiles.  Takes me waaaaay back.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["125622", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 65, "Surfnfish", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-11T19:52:27-0500", "427ci V8 (454ci V8 with 427 kit with less than 250 miles on it)- Super T-10 4 speed manual transmission with new clutch kit- Edelbrock RPM Air Gap intake manifold- Holley Performance 750 CFM double pumper carburetor- MSD E Curve distributor, MSD coil, MSD wires- Headers into Flowmaster dual exhaust with balance tube- Optima yellow top battery- K&N air filter- 4 wheel power disc brakes- Power steering- 12 bolt posi with 3.42 gears and an Auburn posi center section- Entire car is Dynamatted- NO RUST- Laser straight base coat/clear coat paint and body- Complete new wiring harnesses throughout the car- Functioning cowl induction hood- Bucket seats with center console and cup holders- Fold down rear seat- New upholstery, door panels, headliner, and carpet- Comfort grip steering wheel- Bluetooth audio stereo system with custom rear speakers- Super Sport interior- Power rear window- Tinted glass- 11 year completed project- 18/20 inch wheels- Runs and drives as well as it looks!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRace to the beach?  Pink slips?"], ["125624", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 66, "Surfnfish", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-11T19:55:15-0500", "this is way cool..\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n'56 Ford Country Sedan Station Wagon. 2 Tone Green and White exterior and interior. 351 Windsor, 4 speed manual. Good interior, nice wheels and tires. Runs, drives, stops. Minor rust tailgate, few bubbles in paint, floor boards good. \n\n\n\n$7500."], ["125651", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 67, "nedsurf", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T10:38:20-0500", "Surfnfish said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            this is way cool..\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n'56 Ford Country Sedan Station Wagon. 2 Tone Green and White exterior and interior. 351 Windsor, 4 speed manual. Good interior, nice wheels and tires. Runs, drives, stops. Minor rust tailgate, few bubbles in paint, floor boards good.\n\n\n\n$7500.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nAlways loved those Ford wagons, if I had $ it would be mine."], ["125653", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 68, "ThinTheHerd", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T11:08:45-0500", "I've has 2 Grand Wagoneers.  Best surf vehicle.  Worst rust and gas mileage. Will take you deep onto any Outer Banks beach and get you out too!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["125667", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 69, "changeissimple", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T12:16:10-0500", "This is it! You're welcome -- \nhttps://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/6407204547.html\n  You can have it but act fast because I might buy it. My father in law could drive it up next week."], ["125672", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 70, "Surfnfish", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T13:02:57-0500", "ThinTheHerd said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            I've has 2 Grand Wagoneers.  Best surf vehicle.  Worst rust and gas mileage. Will take you deep onto any Outer Banks beach and get you out too!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 4651\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nclassic - the original, and to this day coolest SUV ever.."], ["125673", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 71, "FalseDawn", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T13:09:08-0500", "Surfnfish said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n427ci V8 (454ci V8 with 427 kit with less than 250 miles on it)- Super T-10 4 speed manual transmission with new clutch kit- Edelbrock RPM Air Gap intake manifold- Holley Performance 750 CFM double pumper carburetor- MSD E Curve distributor, MSD coil, MSD wires- Headers into Flowmaster dual exhaust with balance tube- Optima yellow top battery- K&N air filter- 4 wheel power disc brakes- Power steering- 12 bolt posi with 3.42 gears and an Auburn posi center section- Entire car is Dynamatted- NO RUST- Laser straight base coat/clear coat paint and body- Complete new wiring harnesses throughout the car- Functioning cowl induction hood- Bucket seats with center console and cup holders- Fold down rear seat- New upholstery, door panels, headliner, and carpet- Comfort grip steering wheel- Bluetooth audio stereo system with custom rear speakers- Super Sport interior- Power rear window- Tinted glass- 11 year completed project- 18/20 inch wheels- Runs and drives as well as it looks!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRace to the beach?  Pink slips?\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nWe had an green '73 (?) Olds Cutlass station wagon growing up............but nothing like that!!"], ["125678", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 72, "shadydave", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T14:18:09-0500", "Surfnfish said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n427ci V8 (454ci V8 with 427 kit with less than 250 miles on it)- Super T-10 4 speed manual transmission with new clutch kit- Edelbrock RPM Air Gap intake manifold- Holley Performance 750 CFM double pumper carburetor- MSD E Curve distributor, MSD coil, MSD wires- Headers into Flowmaster dual exhaust with balance tube- Optima yellow top battery- K&N air filter- 4 wheel power disc brakes- Power steering- 12 bolt posi with 3.42 gears and an Auburn posi center section- Entire car is Dynamatted- NO RUST- Laser straight base coat/clear coat paint and body- Complete new wiring harnesses throughout the car- Functioning cowl induction hood- Bucket seats with center console and cup holders- Fold down rear seat- New upholstery, door panels, headliner, and carpet- Comfort grip steering wheel- Bluetooth audio stereo system with custom rear speakers- Super Sport interior- Power rear window- Tinted glass- 11 year completed project- 18/20 inch wheels- Runs and drives as well as it looks!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nRace to the beach?  Pink slips?\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nDamn that one x's all the boxes for me, I would sell my quiver off and ride a soft top for that!!"], ["125681", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 73, "Roadmaster", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T15:41:48-0500", "Since we are going off the deep end here; this is one in San Diego but listed in Phoenix, owned by Elvis\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/cto/6395515873.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["125684", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 74, "Dawnpatrol", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T16:51:02-0500", "We better start another thread:  Guy on crack selling used cars!"], ["125685", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 75, "Wade In The Waves", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T16:54:35-0500", "\"Rare $375,000 car owned by Elvis.  Yep, I will put it on craigslist and skip an auction\".  Guy is definitely fishing the wrong market.  Haha."], ["125687", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 76, "Surfnfish", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T17:42:55-0500", "before I could legally drive, used to hitch on Hwy 1 from the outskirts of SF to Pedro beach with my Wardy..when lucky enough to see a dark green Plymouth woody approaching \nI\n knew my ride was here \n\n    \n        \n\n    \n    \n\n    \n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nthe woody belonged to Fred Windisch, super cool guy and film maker of The Natural Art, the defining NorCal surf movie of our times which well captured the SF Bay Area surf scene..to this day, whenever I see an old Woody, I gotta smile.."], ["125688", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 77, "jdogger", "Dec 12, 2017", "2017-12-12T17:58:21-0500", "Roadmaster said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            Since we are going off the deep end here; this is one in San Diego but listed in Phoenix, owned by Elvis\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://phoenix.craigslist.org/wvl/cto/6395515873.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 4669\n\n\n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\n\"The guitarist from Iron Butterfly\" Gotta love that!!!"], ["125769", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 78, "thomas", "Dec 14, 2017", "2017-12-14T10:11:48-0500", "What about the Ford Flex...not sure if it was mentioned in this thread...just a big wagon..."], ["125782", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 79, "LittleComptonSurfer", "Dec 14, 2017", "2017-12-14T15:12:53-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view"], ["125785", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 80, "OneLove", "Dec 14, 2017", "2017-12-14T16:12:37-0500", "drool...\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["125839", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 81, "Surfnfish", "Dec 16, 2017", "2017-12-15T21:18:11-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nway nice 4x4 camper van..\n\n\n\n\nhttps://portland.craigslist.org/mlt/cto/d/1991-toyota-townace-truck/6413845911.html"], ["125844", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 82, "kpd73", "Dec 16, 2017", "2017-12-16T09:05:28-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n1997 Ford E-150 Econoline Conversion van. Gutted - even passenger seat - to make room for cold/dry storage of food. You can't see up in the roof but there were wooden racks for 2 other boards. 9'6 easily running up the side. Van was actually really good on gas- 22 mpg - \n\n\n\nHe was my Home for over 8 months. \n\n\n\nHe was also my best friend in the World. \n\n\n\nThere is a certain crazy good feeling inside when I would be out in the water and look over and just see my Home with everything I own in it. Or when I would come out from the store, the pic of him in front of the statehouse is when I came out from the Greyhound station after grabbing a board a couple years ago. \n\n\n\nI'm not much of a picture taker but it was like he was posing and it just cracked me up. So regal!\n\n\n\nI put him up for sale before leaving for New Zealand to help finance a camper van over there. At the bottom of the craigslist ad I had it stated- if you are someone who is in serious need and this van would help you, please contact me and we can work something out. \n\n\n\nWell, I got multiple offers for the $3000 asking and a couple for more if I could just hold it for them. 2 days before I was going to meet someone to sell the van, I got contacted by a man in Providence who was living in an old car that was dying. He said he saw my ad and thought he would reach out and take a chance. He had nothing to offer. \n\n\n\n$3300 or help this guy? \n\n\n\nThat money was something I seriously was counting on. \n\n\n\nThe night before I was to meet the buyer I called the man in Providence- lets call him DA - and he told me his story. It was no longer a question for me. \n\n\n\nThe next morning I had arranged to meet DA in the parking lot of the Fall River Stop and Shop and give him the van. I waited and waited, when I finally got a message saying he was here, but couldn't see me. He was in the wrong place, and I was out of time, I had an appointment to keep and couldn't wait any longer. \n\n\n\nI drove away. \n\n\n\nI was in the passenger seat of my girls truck and I looked back at my van just sitting in the parking lot, fictitious bill of sale all written out in the glove compartment, my departed uncles old Coleman sleeping bags, that rad cooler from of my grandparents that just happened to match, a pair of size 10.5 workboots with $20 tucked in one of them, and other stuff that made it a Home. \n\n\n\nHe was all regal and stoked to be on his new mission helping this guy out.\n\n\n\nIt was the last I ever saw of it. \n\n\n\nI came back from New Zealand and looked up DA to see how he was doing. He said shortly after getting the van he had an accident with the van running a Stop sign. It was totaled. Gone. \n\n\n\nI honestly cried that day.  \n\n\n\nI thought he was going to have a warm home for the Winter. I thought something good was going to come of this. \n\n\n\nMy girl still doesn't believe his story. \n\n\n\nI've been asked so many times \"What happened to your van?\" And when I tell people I gave it away to help someone, I'm met with mixed reactions. \n\n\n\nI'm telling this now because I'm not only tired of holding it in but because that van was a Legend and wanted to get this out once and for all. \n\n\n\nWhere he was, I was. Plain, Simple and downright fucking rad. \n\n\n\nI miss him everyday and haven't been able to replace yet.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUntil now-\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://boston.craigslist.org/bmw/cto/d/1990-ford-e150-econoline/6425206024.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHe's an absolute miracle and I know he's mine. Trying to wrap my head around the logistics and need to get him to a mechanic and done over. Stoked! \n\n\n\nThanks for listening.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShort story long for anyone out there looking? Get a pre 2000 Ford Econoline. They absolutely whip ASS. \n\n\n\nOh and those Toyota Hiace's and Mitsubishi Delicas were all over NZ. Killer vehicles."], ["125845", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 83, "Flip756", "Dec 16, 2017", "2017-12-16T10:52:04-0500", "\"...infused with tons of good karma, free of charge\""], ["125863", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 84, "Roadmaster", "Dec 17, 2017", "2017-12-17T16:35:49-0500", "Pull into the Swami's parking lot with this custom van and you should get some respect.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["126118", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 85, "nedsurf", "Dec 25, 2017", "2017-12-24T20:39:55-0500", "Here you go - \nhttps://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/cto/d/estate-sale-extremely-rare/6422556273.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEstate sale- my great-great grandfather kept this in his plane hanger. Hanger Find- I now inherited this extremely rare 1949 Volkswagen van in complete original condition not molested or restored in any way. One of the very earliest vans ever made. I'm asking $1,000,000.00 cash. Sale pending\n\n\n\nI want one million dollars"], ["126121", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 86, "SeniorGrom", "Dec 25, 2017", "2017-12-24T21:08:17-0500", "He\u2019s got the year right but I sure would like to see about 100 pics.  Serial Numbers and documentation."], ["126123", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 87, "PeakMaster", "Dec 25, 2017", "2017-12-25T01:35:22-0500", "kpd73 said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 4698\n\n\nView attachment 4699\n\n\nView attachment 4700\n\n\n\n\n\n\nView attachment 4701\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n1997 Ford E-150 Econoline Conversion van. Gutted - even passenger seat - to make room for cold/dry storage of food. You can't see up in the roof but there were wooden racks for 2 other boards. 9'6 easily running up the side. Van was actually really good on gas- 22 mpg -\n\n\n\nHe was my Home for over 8 months.\n\n\n\nHe was also my best friend in the World.\n\n\n\nThere is a certain crazy good feeling inside when I would be out in the water and look over and just see my Home with everything I own in it. Or when I would come out from the store, the pic of him in front of the statehouse is when I came out from the Greyhound station after grabbing a board a couple years ago.\n\n\n\nI'm not much of a picture taker but it was like he was posing and it just cracked me up. So regal!\n\n\n\nI put him up for sale before leaving for New Zealand to help finance a camper van over there. At the bottom of the craigslist ad I had it stated- if you are someone who is in serious need and this van would help you, please contact me and we can work something out.\n\n\n\nWell, I got multiple offers for the $3000 asking and a couple for more if I could just hold it for them. 2 days before I was going to meet someone to sell the van, I got contacted by a man in Providence who was living in an old car that was dying. He said he saw my ad and thought he would reach out and take a chance. He had nothing to offer.\n\n\n\n$3300 or help this guy?\n\n\n\nThat money was something I seriously was counting on.\n\n\n\nThe night before I was to meet the buyer I called the man in Providence- lets call him DA - and he told me his story. It was no longer a question for me.\n\n\n\nThe next morning I had arranged to meet DA in the parking lot of the Fall River Stop and Shop and give him the van. I waited and waited, when I finally got a message saying he was here, but couldn't see me. He was in the wrong place, and I was out of time, I had an appointment to keep and couldn't wait any longer.\n\n\n\nI drove away.\n\n\n\nI was in the passenger seat of my girls truck and I looked back at my van just sitting in the parking lot, fictitious bill of sale all written out in the glove compartment, my departed uncles old Coleman sleeping bags, that rad cooler from of my grandparents that just happened to match, a pair of size 10.5 workboots with $20 tucked in one of them, and other stuff that made it a Home.\n\n\n\nHe was all regal and stoked to be on his new mission helping this guy out.\n\n\n\nIt was the last I ever saw of it.\n\n\n\nI came back from New Zealand and looked up DA to see how he was doing. He said shortly after getting the van he had an accident with the van running a Stop sign. It was totaled. Gone.\n\n\n\nI honestly cried that day. \n\n\n\nI thought he was going to have a warm home for the Winter. I thought something good was going to come of this.\n\n\n\nMy girl still doesn't believe his story.\n\n\n\nI've been asked so many times \"What happened to your van?\" And when I tell people I gave it away to help someone, I'm met with mixed reactions.\n\n\n\nI'm telling this now because I'm not only tired of holding it in but because that van was a Legend and wanted to get this out once and for all.\n\n\n\nWhere he was, I was. Plain, Simple and downright fucking rad.\n\n\n\nI miss him everyday and haven't been able to replace yet.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUntil now-\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://boston.craigslist.org/bmw/cto/d/1990-ford-e150-econoline/6425206024.html\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHe's an absolute miracle and I know he's mine. Trying to wrap my head around the logistics and need to get him to a mechanic and done over. Stoked!\n\n\n\nThanks for listening.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nShort story long for anyone out there looking? Get a pre 2000 Ford Econoline. They absolutely whip ASS.\n\n\n\nOh and those Toyota Hiace's and Mitsubishi Delicas were all over NZ. Killer vehicles.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nI'm kind of siding with your girl on this."], ["126125", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 88, "Dawnpatrol", "Dec 25, 2017", "2017-12-25T02:00:25-0500", "Man!  Great story KPD.  Your a f'ing Mother Theresa.  But I think ya know a wee bit about life:  What goes around comes around or in your case, good karma begets good karma.  Hope NZ provided you a glimpse of what surfing is all about.  Love the place and I'm going back for an extended stay.  So many places to explore and surf.  And great people!"], ["126192", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 89, "Roadmaster", "Dec 27, 2017", "2017-12-27T09:38:55-0500", "Compact and sporty, my back up surf cruiser\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["126194", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 90, "Basenji703", "Dec 27, 2017", "2017-12-27T10:58:53-0500", "Wow, you surf Pendelton?  Can't believe it!!!!!"], ["126223", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 91, "Roadmaster", "Dec 28, 2017", "2017-12-28T11:17:51-0500", "now this is tempting, one owner, leather interior, twin sunroofs, only problem located Utah\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["126323", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 92, "Surfnfish", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-30T20:04:19-0500", "Diesel 4x4 Isuzu\n\n\n\n\nhttps://eugene.craigslist.org/rvs/d/1990-diesel-4x4-isuzu-camper/6436509400.html\n\n\n\nfresh in from Japan, 29K miles..\n\n\n\nAt 6'2, I just don't fit in these..sure looks for fun for those that do..\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. Refresh page to view"], ["126325", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 93, "jonbiz", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-30T22:07:18-0500", "I just got a used 2013 Toyota Sienna . Been fantastic. Will tow the boat, better yet will fit my 12 foot glider inside with three other boards easily. I could probably get 12'6 in it. No kids just wife and myself. I could easy take four buddy's and all boards and gear on a road trip. My bikes fit in the back standing up. I looked at trucks but too expensive, got this for $16900 with 54000 miles. Bluetooth, navigation and great fuel mileage."], ["126329", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 94, "SeniorGrom", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-31T08:01:26-0500", "jonbiz said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            I just got a used 2013 Toyota Sianna. Been fantastic. Will tow the boat, better yet will fit my 12 foot glider inside with three other boards easily. I could probably get 12'6 in it. No kids just wife and myself. I could easy take four buddy's and all boards and gear on a road trip. My bikes fit in the back standing up. I looked at trucks but too expensive, got this for $16900 with 54000 miles. Bluetooth, navigation and great fuel mileage.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nExcellent choice.  I drove 2 for work.  Can't remember the years but two different body styles and put well over 100K miles on each.  Smooth, quiet, reliable, and decent power.  Many a stealthy surf session with boards inside too.  Enjoy it."], ["126335", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 95, "Surfnfish", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-31T10:26:55-0500", "SeniorGrom said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            Excellent choice.  I drove 2 for work.  Can't remember the years but two different body styles and put well over 100K miles on each.  Smooth, quiet, reliable, and decent power.  Many a stealthy surf session with boards inside too.  Enjoy it.\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nWe've put over a 100k on 08' Sienna, other then oil changes and brakes, haven't put a dime in it.  Unless winter road conditions require the 4x4 Tahoe, it's the first choice for any trip outside our local area.."], ["126360", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 96, "Wade In The Waves", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-31T17:48:12-0500", "Man, I have a 2011 Honda Odyssey and I love it.  I haven't stuffed any boards in it yet, but I have to say that it is one of the most utilitarian vehicles I have ever owned.  So much room and seating."], ["126362", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 97, "nedsurf", "Dec 31, 2017", "2017-12-31T18:50:58-0500", "You guys would make great soccer moms ;>"], ["126364", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 98, "Surfnfish", "Jan 1, 2018", "2017-12-31T21:04:01-0500", "nedsurf said: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n            You guys would make great soccer moms ;>\n        \n\n\nClick to expand...\n\n\n\n\nwell, I was a soccer dad there for some years, and my kids spent their childhoods in the back of a series of full size van conversions..as iterated before, if the clueless American auto makers would come up with a factory built 4x4 van with a functional utility emphasis, around the size of a Sienna or a tad bigger with a moderately raised roof option, demand would outstrip production.."], ["126367", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 99, "Wade In The Waves", "Jan 1, 2018", "2018-01-01T00:47:56-0500", "Image processing. Refresh page to view\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n    \n This would be amazing. Super duper swagger wagon."], ["126390", "4112", "help picking a new surf vehic", 100, "PeakMaster", "Jan 2, 2018", "2018-01-02T07:03:08-0500", "https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-Volvo-940-d506#listing=195012607\n\n\n\n\n\n\nImage processing. 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