VAN OWNERS - ADVICE NEEDED

Contemplated a trailer but after plenty of consideration, I have bought a van which I pick up next week (I-Load)

I am after pics and/or advice from van owners as to best setup options for board racks, best way to store masts and booms etc.

I have been considering a multi board rack (one above the other) with a 45degree angle to cut down on width across the back of van to allow more room for other gear and maybe bedding etc. Will look to have a rack system that I can unbolt and remove so can put motorbike or whatever else in as needed.

Any advice and photos would be greatly appreciated. Pick it up next week and will do some temp job for storing gear until I can work out the most practical way.

Cheers,
EB

I've got a Delica and use a similar (non) system. Can't fit racks coz I have nowhere to put the racks if they were not in the van. My van is used as a passenger van occasionally. This Sunday seven of us are going up to the Hunter Valley vineyards in it.

I-Loads look like top vans. Congratulations on the purchase.

FletcHuz,

Thanks for that thread. Excellent set up.Very well done. I like what I see and will probably pinch your ideas.

Did you give any thought to making the racks a 45 degree instead of 90. If not why not? Was thinking it may give me some more room. Having said that I havent done the calculations for added with vs lost height.

Unreal job, especially with the water collection.

Thanks heaps,
EB

WindmanV,

5 speed manual, 2.5 litre turbo diesel. Goes unreal - I was very suprised at how well it went. Guns up hills at 110 in 5th no worries at all. (with air at full blast - I always check that) Handles extremely well and the drivers seat is really comfy with a position much more like a car or 4wd than the old style bus style "over the wheel" steering position of older vans.

I kicked tyres for about 12 months before going with the I load, based on reviews, price, size, value for money and warranty.

Take one for a test drive, it will sell itself. Or if you are going to Sandy Point for Speed Week, we will hopefully be there for a yarn about it.


Cheers,
EB

45 degree racks will give you a bit of extra width so could be a good option. You could utilise the angled space above and below the boards to store your masts and sails...could work well

The reasons I configured mine like I did were:
1. Needed to fit 5 boards, sails and masts all on one side - height wise I could only just fit them all in flat - 3 boards would probably fit on 45 degrees but not 5.
2. Wanted the van setup for minimum rigging time so I get the most out of the quick after work sails in summer - It's much easier/quicker to slide boards in and out of horizontal racks than angled racks
3. The brackets I used on the PVC were 90 degrees - may be able to get 45 degree brackets but I didn't see any

Good luck with decking your van out - half the fun is thinking of how best to make it all work for your needs - then it's satisfying when it all comes together.