Propex

Found myself in a position of having a late fall fishing derby with the scouts.

Convenient, as I had a chance to fully test the Propex system.   In one word - WOW!

When I finally checked out after midnight, the Scouts still going strong, I crawled into the back of the Thingamajigger and turned on the Propex.  It was 30 degrees outside, and within minutes the van was a comfy temp.  It was just me, so I did not have the top up.

During the night I needed to turn the heat down, as I had it too high to compensate for the cool start and myself needing to thaw out.  The Propex was maintaining too warm a temperature within the Thingamajigger.  Once I did, the unit kicked on and off as needed to maintain a perfect temperature.

What a great addition to the van!

Tinkering

Now that the northeast is thawing out a bit, I took the opportunity to get my ass in gear and to get going on some projects that need to get done for this year.

One of them is my rear storage for the table top.

I have had my rear table mounted under the overhead storage cabinet for a but, but the bungee cords I was using occasionally would be a hassle.  The rest of the family could not undo the cords either as they we're stretched tight. 

Enter Camper Van Culture.  Jed had a stowing bracket kit available that I had shipped up while in Germany in February. 

http://campervanculture.com/shop/vw-westfalia-table-stowing-brackets-t25t3vanagonlt/

I believe it a great option, and installed yesterday while my Easter meal was sitting heavy in my belly.

The follower of this blog may also notice in this picture that there is a new panel to the upper right.  I started the install of my Propex system and the control panel is mounted up top.  This will require a full explanation as the Propex installation process is rather in depth.

Last week I stumbled upon a set of Mercedes CLK wheels.  Could not resist for $150, as they are in great shape.

The tires are useless to me with a 91 load rating and a non XL sidewall. But these wheels are lightweight and strong 16 inch wheels that will bolt right on and clear any brake upgrades that may be performed on the Vanagon.

Propex

Just plunked down the coin for a Propex HS 2211 heat system from Karl at Westyventures.  He is the importer for these systems and I felt a better choice for purchase than the usual suspects.

With so much work (good thing as I can afford more bits for the van and bad thing because I cannot enjoy it) this year, I have not camped as much as I would have liked to and without adequate camp time, I will be unfulfilled going into the winter season making for an intolerable winter.

With a safe heat system, I will have option to camp much later and continue to wander well into late autumn - early winter.  Once there is snow the Thingamajigger goes away.

http://www.westyventures.com/HS2211%20flyer.pdf