Great tips. We just bought a new Camper Van. Getting use to it. Learning to downsize for camper van trips. We too used to taking everything in our 43 ft diesel motorhome
Good morning! I’m watching your videos again, a few a second or third time around. I am happy to announce that a week ago I am a pleasant way ascent 2021 owner. The rig arrives in a few weeks. It is because of you, and your love for traveling in your PE that I considered a PW. I am super excited to see my PW arrive home in Seattle from South Carolina. Debbie and Jon, thank you for being such an inspiration. I appreciate all your videos and sharing your knowledge. Sadie.
You are so welcome. Friday's video will be of interest to you. It's an interview with Barbara-Lynn Smith who is so knowledgeable and is active on the PW owners forum. We talk about maintenance. Be sure to join the owners forum as soon as you have your VIN number. Let me know if I can be of any help.
There is a saying, “live in your house and it will tell you what it needs to feel like your home”. That is my biggest issue in building out my shuttle bus. Don’t do too much till I launch, because I know what I need for my Gypsy Caravan. I truly appreciated all the little hacks you have shared. Thank you. Live small, travel big .... and travel safe👏🏽🇨🇦🚌🇨🇦👏🏽🤘🏽🖖🏽
Debbie. We are using the magnet to hold the paper towel holder in our OnTour. Yes, it is a very strong magnet. One magnet broke into small pieces when it hit the other piece of magnet so hard. I ordered your brother's folding table and chair and so many things from your Amazon Store page. The table and chair are well designed!!!
I finally screwed it in. Too many bumpy roads. I’ve also seen magnets shatter. And Velcro was only ok. Let me know down the road how well the magnets work. BTW, are you going to the Pleasureway rally in Las Vegas?
@@FromShetoMe will let you know how well the magnets do. At the moment we don’t have plan to go to Las Vegas Rally. When is it? We have to sign up to be West Coast members to go right? Have not mentioned this to David yet, but I am hoping we can drive out West this Winter,
We are taking delivery of our new PW Ascent next Friday. Your videos about your experiences influenced me to go with PW and the Ascent and we are re looking at your videos to figure out how to actually use it. You are the best and we appreciate you sharing all that you do.
It does take time to figure it out, for me, years. Feel free to email me if you have questions and also to sign up for the owners group when you take ownership. energymaven@gmail.com
So enjoy your video! Totally refreshing to have someone mature, with wisdom & common sense to give info in complete sentences & understandable grammar! Thank you for your time & delightful presentation! 👍❤️
Golf Club idea. We are scheduled to take delivery of our (new to us) 2018 Ascent (3000 miles) next week, can't wait. We will be adding the "1UP Bike Rack," Super Duty Double Model for our two Rad Mini Step-Through ebikes. Golf Club idea. I just found out today, that 1UP also have, what they call a "Cargo Add On," this platform can carry various size chests etc up to 200 lbs, with the 2 Bike set-up, and could easily be adapted to carry a "Hard Shell Golf Club Carrier." Alternatively, you could get a piece of large Diameter PVC tubing (6-7 inches range) and slide a small size canvas Golf Club Bag inside. This PVC Tube can either be strapped or bolted to an additional Bike Rail with no problem. You could also double stack the Tubes, like a Double Barrel Shot Gun if your wife plays Golf also.
You're adorable and I loved hearing about all your upgrades. I'm considering a campervan and hopefully this year. It would only be a weekend or a holiday campervan. I love yours a lot thank you for this video.
Great video! I had two comments: 1) I just replaced my fridge in a Plateau TS, and though challenging, I was able to get it out. I have a FB Pleasureway Group post on it. 2) My Spyder controls touch panel kept coming on when it wasnt touched, in the middle of the night, waking me up. Turns out that the issue is a firmware one. I called Spyder, and they sent me two new panels (free), that solved the problem. No need for a cloth cover! And those are easy to install. Please keep up the great videos!
You two are definitely at a point in your vans life that custom makes sense. The refrigerator is a good Idea cant wait to hear how it turns out. We paid $125,000.00 plus tax for our 2015 Roadtrek our custom van will be $3,000.00 less than that and we will get all the things we want. I hope our desire to travel continues.
I'm sure your experiences in the Roadtrek informed a lot of your custom design choices. Is someone building it for you? Would love to hear about your experience when it is all done. If anything, our desire to travel has only gotten stronger and with only 40,000 miles on our van, it will hopefully serve us well for a few more years.
We bought a new 2019 Mercedes 170 Sprinter in El Cajon near San Diego It has an electric sliding door! We got a good price $52K shipped to Freedom Vans in Bellingham WA! The electric door cost $750.00 from the factory int costs $4,500.00 installed after market.
Thank you so much for spending the time to make these great informative videos. I want to mention that the area above the cook top/sink is not magnetic. I have affixed our paper towel rack as you have with velcro for this reason but sometimes the velcro needs to be replaced and I will try to use half full rolls of paper towels to lessen the load so it doesn't come tumbling down on rocky roads (we are in the pre-suspension upgrade phase). Also, I changed the table top and am using one of the wooden plank bed supports as the table top. The table attachment thing-a-majig was easy to remove and screw onto the plank so now it serves dual purpose. I did paint a clear varnish on to protect it from our 7 year old. It is just the right size for a small lap top or small plates.
I have the same problem with my towels. Funny you should mention using the bed supports as a table because just yesterday I was thinking about adding the Lagun table and wondering if the bed support could be used as the table top.
Debbie, I can not thank you enough for your very hard work in giving solutions to us newbies to problems and issues. Your presentation is clear, cheerful and supportive. Debbie has a page on Amazon that lists all of these helpful products. I have purchased a first round of parts to set up. Debbie's videos are extremely helpful and with provide the neophyte or experienced RVer will all kinds of ideas. I think I now have the confidence and necessities to go on my first big trip. I can't imagine how much work it takes to make your videos so please accept my gratitude for your efforts. Let the fun begin!
It's amazing how many add on's over the time you have discovered makes your home on wheels more efficient and applicable to your personal needs. The key is taking time to discover what is needed and what works and you and John are truly appreciated for sharing with us what has worked for you. Stay safe and as always thank you for sharing.
Great to see all your improve! I strongly recommend a 'Australian Cattle Guard' will save you $5,000 to $10,000+ on 'Repairs' when you hit a Dear or any Critter on the road & you keep on going down the road! :-) Bolts Right to the Frame of your Van! You can attach Amber Fog Lights on it. I use the Fog Lights at Night v. Headlights to see great.
Great van. Also if your camera allows it; put a inexpensive polarizer over the camera and twist it to the angle that will remove the glare off the windshield. I use one for my dash camera and it works great.
We use the elbow friend after this recommendation. Thank you. In the response to the cup holders in the dash, we have found them useful for the following. A trash can ment for cup holders. And a cell phone mount for cup holder. We use the cell phone cup holder to hold our TPMS unit. It tightens down in the cup holder and it's very stable. Also works great for cell phone to video timeless and hypertime videos.
I don’t think I will ever travel to Alaska or any place for long distance in a camper, as much as I like campers, because you have to be really tech-save and I don’t have a bit of that kind of knowledge. You know so much about mechanical stuff.
Greetings from Syracuse, NY, where spring has finally arrived. Last snow was May 12; it melted after a couple hours. Many thanks for this recap & expansion on van improvements. You look great: Rested, good haircut, pretty shirt, etc. Glad you are healthy & happy. Enjoy Joshua Tree!
Thanks. It has been both restful and productive these past few months. My grandfather was born and raised in Syracuse. I drove through a few years ago hoping to find the home where he was born but sadly it was gone.
Thanks for sharing~ great ideas! The golf clubs will easily fit in the garage portion of the vehicle. I’ve seen many videos of van conversions where people even have room for bicycles and skis.
Thanks for all your tips! We are considering getting a Pleasure Way Lexor, and if we do, i'll definitely be coming back to this video for some things to make storage easier!!
Thank you for your thoughtful video with great ideas. We are eager to hear about the refrigerator change out. No unnecessary travel in Washington state! Hopefully we can get out soon! Safe and healthy travels!
Seems the fridge is stuck in transit before reaching the distributor, and then it has to be trucked from the east coast to the west. Who knows when we'll get to it but I'm excited about the project. Hope it opens up a bit up in Washington as we would like to get to Spokane to see some family.
@@FromShetoMe Spokane County is in Phase 2 of the 4 Phase reopening plan. Phase 3 is when we can resume non-essential travel. Here is a link for your planning purposes. Stay safe and healthy. www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-progression-safe-start-phases
Hi, haven't commented in quite a while but we're still following! When traveling it's difficult to keep up. You and I have the same organizing gene. I love making things easier, less complicated, simpler. Thanks for all the info. We're heading up to No. Arizona soon.
Well done again! Very clever and helpful upgrades. I appreciate your Thorough and honest review of products. It helps to narrow down the search of so many products out there. Thank you so much!
Really love all your videos Sue, they have given me some great ideas, I live in Australia qld, and have a e- bike, so many things you talk about are relevant. Loved the scenery in your Joshua Tree camping, look forward to the next one, enjoy and stay well.
Love these Greatest Hits mod videos! For your golfing friend... We carry 2 sets of clubs permanently in our Ascent. We walk so smallest & lightest bags: mine is Mizuno carry / stand bag & his is a Ping Moonlight. They fit in the ‘garage.’ If they leave their bed down as we do, they could also live crosswise in the footwell of sofa. Thanks for compiling your mods and hacks. Hope we’re all on the road soon!
I installed the Vancillary shelf last week (very nice) and we’re about half way through the fabrication & installation of the wam window curtains. 😀 We’re looking to getting on the road pretty soon. Thanks for sharing your mods with us!
I dream of owning a Pleasureway van when I retire. I enjoy watching your videos. I like seeing actual van modifications. You are great at explaining each idea. It is fun to watch you and John enjoy yourselves.
This couple is on a whole nother level! 10 Thumbs way up.Thanks for the cool ideas. Thinking of putting a treadmill in my van for bad weather woes. Would a low profile treadmill work? WDY think?
i've always wanted follow your foot steps but my current situation wont let me to it yet , i always watch your videos and id like to thank you and know that your efforts are inspiring me, giving me hope and they're really bvery informative. thank you so much! keep up the good work, take care always and God bless :-)
There are many difference from my old 2008 Ascent. Being 10 yrs older, I don't worry about drilling holes, lol. But still good deals l can apply to my older Ascent in some area. Keep it up
Hello ! I just picked up my 2018 Pleasureway Ascent and have watched a number of your videos and love many of your ideas. You showed the Pikavo Security Screen, and I'd like to know if that is ordered already made ro fit exactly on that screen. I'd like more information if you don't mind ! Thank you. It is 100 degrees here in Portland and obviously a horrible time to test out the darn Dometic fridge. I watched your other video specifically about the Fridge , with great interest as well as trepidation. Im new to RVing , and wish I had been aware of the potential problems with cooling to acceptable level. Thank you so much for your videos !!!!
The screen should fit fine but you will likely have to drill one or two holes. As to the fridge, consider buying the SensorPush device so you can monitor the temperature: www.amazon.com/dp/B01AEQ9X9I/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
Just found your channel. Just got a small very small camper and looking for ideas to organize and you have a bunch. That little trash thing.... already ordered. Keeping the link to your store because you have a lot for good inexpensive tips for making a small space work.
Thank you so much for all of your tips! I am a newbie with a Roadtrek Zion SRT and will hopefully make my van as organized as yours. Stay safe and thanks again!
Thanks for the hacks and as usual a great job on the video. As you know I have incorporated some of them in our Lexor. Have a safe Memorial Day weekend!
From She to Me. Thanks for the feedback and we haven’t had any problem of them falling or moving, but I usually have a few heavy items on them and they don’t move at all.
Thanks for your interesting ideas. I love seeing people using their Rvs as great "piggy banks". After more than 40 years of camping (tents, trailers, van) one room in my basement is needed for storage although I throw or give away quite a lot of my equipment from time to time. Why is there always some item/tool better than the one before??? - Good luck with the replacing of your fridge. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
Thanks for all your upgrades in this video. My husband and I just purchased an Ascent 2021.5, and are working through problems and with a big change overs not mention. Please let listeners know Pleasureway eliminated all the extentions on the counter top for food prep. It is not mentioned in any material we read or saw. However with the compressor refrigerator there was room for a food pantry, but no place to prep food. Still trying to figure that logic out. Debbie would you post type of glue used to put magnets on the sides of the panel for bolsters. Thank you again for your inspiring videos.
Funny you should mention the extension because I just met a viewer today who told me about that. Apparently they moved the control panel to where the extension table is now. I'm wondering if the Lagun table they now use helps with prep space. I've been considering removing that extension and replacing it with a Lagun table that would give me even more prep space. As far as the glue used, I didn't use glue but relied on the adhesive backing that came with my magnets. But if you put them on plastic, then it is important to use the 3M primer first. You could also use the magnets with the whole in the center for screws. It will be a few weeks before I can mention the changes that have been made but that's a good idea. Thanks.
@@FromShetoMe We thought about the lagun table and you have to make sure to cover the leather from any spills ,or hot food. We are looking at having an extention made on the couch side of the countertop,and cover the leather , especially for morning prep when the table is down because the bed is extended. Your videos are truly encouraging to me, and looking forward to being on the road. Thanks
26:00 Pepper Spray - you cannot bring into Canada any spray marketed for “attack/defense against people” however you can bring it if it is marketed for “attack/defense against dogs/animals”.
Found your channel because we’re buying a Pleasure Way, not sure which one yet, they’re so hard to find right now. We’re looking at a Lexor tomorrow. 🤞🏻 we really like your videos, you do a very good job. I love all your organizing tips and I’m looking forward to looking at some of the travel vlogs too. Great outfits too, Im so curious where you got this top from that you’re wearing in this video? (Sorry not van related)
No problem. I got it at REI a year or so ago in the cycling department. We’re on the road so I can’t tell you the brand but it has pockets in the back.
I love that you put all theses things in a couple of videos. Great tips and I can’t wait to see what I can do or what I need. Unfortunately I haven’t hit the road yet. I was going to start in April and travel through August. Well obviously that plan didn’t work out. I have a van but don’t really know what I’m going to need yet. I did buy the warm window coverings fabric. I had to take an unexpected trip to Missouri in January and the fabric Im Sure helped immensely since I traveled through snow. I didn’t have time to sew coverings on the fabric I just cut it out and used the magnets you suggested to hang them using the metal window frames. Thanks again for your informative channel. Stay safe and healthy 🚐😷❤️💐
As a followup question, I would like your views on a spare tire rack. You had one installed but I did get where it was from. My research suggests that Owl seems good and it includes a ladder to the roof. Have you ever really needed to get to the roof on your Ascent? Just trying to figure out if that makes sense. Thanks, Jim
We’ve never needed to get to the roof. Owl is a good option. Ours was from Agile Off-road. Owl has made a nice improvement to theirs. We recently tried to contact them and never got a response. So you may have to be persistent.
We really like our newer shower heads. Unfortunately, the one we bought for the outdoor shower was discontinued. We bought the new model for the indoor shower and like it too but not sure it would fit in the small outside compartment.
Thank you for all your videos. You and John are an inspiration on many levels. Question: I noticed on one of your videos that you have a shade (Sunbrella material?) on your Fantastic fan. Did you make it or purchase it? Did you use Contact Cement for the velcro on the ceiling? Does it really stick over time?
I made it using a product called "warm window" fabric. You can get it at Joanne's fabrics. It is terrific for keeping out heat and cold. I use the same fabric on all my window curtains. I used velcro for several years but then discovered I could screw in snaps in the four corners and replaced the velcro. I purchased the snaps and tools from Sailrite.com
Thank you for these amazing Hacks it’s incredible how you organized everything and the little magnets that are powerful at something new Mollys wanting to find new ways for storage you having credible designs thank you so much for sharing I’d love to know about your curtains and if you made them or if you ordered them both of you having a beautiful day many blessings to both of you
Thanks. Yes, I made the curtains and would send the link to the video but we’re on the move. I may have the link in the description box. The material is a product called “warm windows” purchased from Joanne’s fabrics. It makes all the difference.
Wondering How you settled on the isotherm 115 refrigerator. There are several others available such as the Nova Kool 4500. About the same price and size and is what Winnabago is currently using in some of their Travados. I have a 2020 Ascent and am looking at doing the refrigerator change. It's a shame the Dometics don't work very well. But on hot days they allow temps to go up to near 45 degrees in the refrigerator. I tried both internal and external fans with no luck. Looking forward to any thing you come up with that helps, thanks for the research
Lots of people have recommended the NovaKool. I don't think the 4500 would work in the Ascent though. There is a vent pipe that runs up the back side which reduces the depth of the opening. The NovaKool 3800 would certainly work. We really won't know all that is entailed until we start the install but the Isotherm has an interesting back side. The top and bottom are shallower than the middle. We are hoping that this will help with the installation. I may be wrong, but I think the power use is better on the Isotherm. It also seems to have a larger freezer compartment which is something I would like. Our new fridge has been ordered so hopefully we'll be able to share more and better info with everyone before too long.
Did you replace the initial method of attaching the warm window curtains with the neodymium magnets and if so did you enlarge the covering to reach the metal on the coach? Thank you for all you do to make my RV life so much easier.
I haven’t finished the conversion yet but on my side of the bed I used snaps in the valence and magnets at bottom and side and had to extend the fabric a little. Just pieced it with additional fabric. John’s side still has velcro. Also changed out the back curtains with magnets.
@@doggonervn211 I don't know. We have to get a new windshield, which means new window tint, so I'll ask our guy if they are all alarmed. But I know that if you bang on the car, the alarm will go off.
You did a pretty good job of describing and demonstrating the accessories in your van except, except, for those rechargeable fans. WHERE DID YOU GET THOSE?? We have had to resort to a 110 volt fan which is big and tends to draw a lot of battery power. Larry
What do you use to affix the round magnet onto the window? I like the idea of using a magnet to keep the bolster from moving during driving instead of using the Velcro! Thanks! So many good ideas!
We just got back from a trip and the single magnet was not strong enough to hold the bolster. I'm going to experiment with additional magnets. The round magnets that I purchased have an adhesive backing. Because it is going on to plastic and not glass, you need to use a primer on the plastic before attaching the adhesive.
Once again, I learn so much from you. Thank you. I’m still trying to figure out what we want to do about bedding. What are you doing now? Someone recommended RV Superbag. Have you looked at this? Thank you
We have a slightly different situation from most folks. John is very tall and his feet have to hang over. He does not want a sleeping bag type of arrangement. But lots of folks like that type. I've looked at a bunch of them, like the one from Beddy's Bags: beddys.com/collections/rvs-campers We use a down comforter covered by a duvet and that has worked quite well. On the bottom we just use a twin fitted sheet on the top part of the bed and another twin fitted sheet on the bottom part. Has worked quite well and doesn't take up a bunch of room.
Dianne, hello, nice stuff, that dashboard cover , on my 91 TAURUS, was UNBEARABLE, I like you just put a piece of fabric, but design, made it fall until I flung a readymade heavy fabric cover held on with 3 pieces of double stick tape , new car is 90 % better Then that ‘refrigerator skinny spigot container,,behind your seat is great, but , is your potable water filtered? Or do you have a ‘travel sized BRKEY FILTER ?, as hey say, ‘’necessity is the MOTHER of all ideas’ as you found out in time. Great ides overall, do stat well &safe, we are still on LOCKDOWN here, in N.J. going to COSTCO, hoping to find what we need Cheers FROM NJ🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
We refill our bottle with filtered water. Prefer to do that than drink from the RV tank. I had originally purchased a Berkey but there is just no place to put it in the RV so we gave it to our son. Things are easing up here but we will continue to play it safe, as best we can.
Could you please send the name and where to order this cup holder adapter?? I see ones, but they don't seem to have the base to attach in the console pull out of the sprinter. Thank you,
I see on your Amazon page your have listed the Fan-Tastic Vent cover but you did not mention it in your upgrades. Do you like the cover and does it work well for you?
So... Many... Modifications! I had a couple of questions... At 9 minutes you showed an "indentation" behind the drivers seat. Would that have been so you could lean the chair back more? At 31 minutes, you mentioned a ceramic heater for winter. Are you having issues with the heating system in the Pleasure Way? Thanks as always for all the information! Be seeing you!
John takes orders gracefully and without a peep.
Well...peeps aside, he is a good guy.
Great tips.
We just bought a new Camper Van.
Getting use to it. Learning to downsize for camper van trips.
We too used to taking everything in our 43 ft diesel motorhome
Good morning! I’m watching your videos again, a few a second or third time around. I am happy to announce that a week ago I am a pleasant way ascent 2021 owner. The rig arrives in a few weeks. It is because of you, and your love for traveling in your PE that I considered a PW. I am super excited to see my PW arrive home in Seattle from South Carolina. Debbie and Jon, thank you for being such an inspiration. I appreciate all your videos and sharing your knowledge. Sadie.
You are so welcome. Friday's video will be of interest to you. It's an interview with Barbara-Lynn Smith who is so knowledgeable and is active on the PW owners forum. We talk about maintenance. Be sure to join the owners forum as soon as you have your VIN number. Let me know if I can be of any help.
There is a saying, “live in your house and it will tell you what it needs to feel like your home”. That is my biggest issue in building out my shuttle bus. Don’t do too much till I launch, because I know what I need for my Gypsy Caravan. I truly appreciated all the little hacks you have shared. Thank you. Live small, travel big .... and travel safe👏🏽🇨🇦🚌🇨🇦👏🏽🤘🏽🖖🏽
Wise words. Thanks for sharing.
Debbie. We are using the magnet to hold the paper towel holder in our OnTour. Yes, it is a very strong magnet. One magnet broke into small pieces when it hit the other piece of magnet so hard. I ordered your brother's folding table and chair and so many things from your Amazon Store page. The table and chair are well designed!!!
I finally screwed it in. Too many bumpy roads. I’ve also seen magnets shatter. And Velcro was only ok. Let me know down the road how well the magnets work. BTW, are you going to the Pleasureway rally in Las Vegas?
@@FromShetoMe will let you know how well the magnets do. At the moment we don’t have plan to go to Las Vegas Rally. When is it? We have to sign up to be West Coast members to go right? Have not mentioned this to David yet, but I am hoping we can drive out West this Winter,
It’s in October. Membership is $10. It may be full. I’m hoping folks from PW are there. It is their 20th anniversary (delayed by a year).
@@FromShetoMe 20 years!! Wow. That would be awesome if Pleasure-Way can be there.
Great video. Overwhelming to think about all of these hacks.
We are taking delivery of our new PW Ascent next Friday. Your videos about your experiences influenced me to go with PW and the Ascent and we are re looking at your videos to figure out how to actually use it. You are the best and we appreciate you sharing all that you do.
It does take time to figure it out, for me, years. Feel free to email me if you have questions and also to sign up for the owners group when you take ownership. energymaven@gmail.com
So enjoy your video! Totally refreshing to have someone mature, with wisdom & common sense to give info in complete sentences & understandable grammar! Thank you for your time & delightful presentation! 👍❤️
Golf Club idea.
We are scheduled to take delivery of our (new to us) 2018 Ascent (3000 miles) next week, can't wait. We will be adding the "1UP Bike Rack," Super Duty Double Model for our two Rad Mini Step-Through ebikes.
Golf Club idea.
I just found out today, that 1UP also have, what they call a "Cargo Add On," this platform can carry various size chests etc up to 200 lbs, with the 2 Bike set-up, and could easily be adapted to carry a "Hard Shell Golf Club Carrier." Alternatively, you could get a piece of large Diameter PVC tubing (6-7 inches range) and slide a small size canvas Golf Club Bag inside. This PVC Tube can either be strapped or bolted to an additional Bike Rail with no problem. You could also double stack the Tubes, like a Double Barrel Shot Gun if your wife plays Golf also.
Thanks. I’ll take a look at it. And congratulations on your new addition!
You're adorable and I loved hearing about all your upgrades. I'm considering a campervan and hopefully this year. It would only be a weekend or a holiday campervan. I love yours a lot thank you for this video.
You're welcome. We sure have gotten a lot of enjoyment from our rig.
I'm in Huntington Beach as well...I see you are at Bolsa Chica!!! Nice job here.
Yes! Thank you!
Great video! I had two comments: 1) I just replaced my fridge in a Plateau TS, and though challenging, I was able to get it out. I have a FB Pleasureway Group post on it. 2) My Spyder controls touch panel kept coming on when it wasnt touched, in the middle of the night, waking me up. Turns out that the issue is a firmware one. I called Spyder, and they sent me two new panels (free), that solved the problem. No need for a cloth cover! And those are easy to install. Please keep up the great videos!
Thanks. I’ll definitely check out your post as I need all the help I can get. We replaced one of the Spyder panels but the other one rarely comes on.
You two are definitely at a point in your vans life that custom makes sense. The refrigerator is a good Idea cant wait to hear how it turns out. We paid $125,000.00 plus tax for our 2015 Roadtrek our custom van will be $3,000.00 less than that and we will get all the things we want. I hope our desire to travel continues.
I'm sure your experiences in the Roadtrek informed a lot of your custom design choices. Is someone building it for you? Would love to hear about your experience when it is all done.
If anything, our desire to travel has only gotten stronger and with only 40,000 miles on our van, it will hopefully serve us well for a few more years.
We bought a new 2019 Mercedes 170 Sprinter in El Cajon near San Diego It has an electric sliding door! We got a good price $52K shipped to Freedom Vans in Bellingham WA! The electric door cost $750.00 from the factory int costs $4,500.00 installed after market.
Thank you so much for spending the time to make these great informative videos. I want to mention that the area above the cook top/sink is not magnetic. I have affixed our paper towel rack as you have with velcro for this reason but sometimes the velcro needs to be replaced and I will try to use half full rolls of paper towels to lessen the load so it doesn't come tumbling down on rocky roads (we are in the pre-suspension upgrade phase). Also, I changed the table top and am using one of the wooden plank bed supports as the table top. The table attachment thing-a-majig was easy to remove and screw onto the plank so now it serves dual purpose. I did paint a clear varnish on to protect it from our 7 year old. It is just the right size for a small lap top or small plates.
I have the same problem with my towels. Funny you should mention using the bed supports as a table because just yesterday I was thinking about adding the Lagun table and wondering if the bed support could be used as the table top.
Debbie, I can not thank you enough for your very hard work in giving solutions to us newbies to problems and issues. Your presentation is clear, cheerful and supportive. Debbie has a page on Amazon that lists all of these helpful products. I have purchased a first round of parts to set up. Debbie's videos are extremely helpful and with provide the neophyte or experienced RVer will all kinds of ideas. I think I now have the confidence and necessities to go on my first big trip. I can't imagine how much work it takes to make your videos so please accept my gratitude for your efforts. Let the fun begin!
Thank you so much Keith. My reward is in helping others which I hope I do. My viewers are the best.
It's amazing how many add on's over the time you have discovered makes your home on wheels more efficient and applicable to your personal needs. The key is taking time to discover what is needed and what works and you and John are truly appreciated for sharing with us what has worked for you. Stay safe and as always thank you for sharing.
Great to see all your improve! I strongly recommend a 'Australian Cattle Guard' will save you $5,000 to $10,000+ on 'Repairs' when you hit a Dear or any Critter on the road & you keep on going down the road! :-) Bolts Right to the Frame of your Van! You can attach Amber Fog Lights on it. I use the Fog Lights at Night v. Headlights to see great.
That would be a smart addition.
Great van. Also if your camera allows it; put a inexpensive polarizer over the camera and twist it to the angle that will remove the glare off the windshield. I use one for my dash camera and it works great.
Just started watching and really enjoying the content and how you present it. Thank you!
Thank you!
We use the elbow friend after this recommendation. Thank you. In the response to the cup holders in the dash, we have found them useful for the following. A trash can ment for cup holders. And a cell phone mount for cup holder. We use the cell phone cup holder to hold our TPMS unit. It tightens down in the cup holder and it's very stable. Also works great for cell phone to video timeless and hypertime videos.
Good idea. Thanks.
You are so organized!! You definitely gave me some ideas even through I’m starting out with a Toyota Sienna minivan.
Thanks! Same meat, different gravy.
I don’t think I will ever travel to Alaska or any place for long distance in a camper, as much as I like campers, because you have to be really tech-save and I don’t have a bit of that kind of knowledge. You know so much about mechanical stuff.
A good alternative to driving is to take a ferry from Vancouver. Much cheaper than a cruise ship and with lots more flexibility.
@@FromShetoMe 👍
Greetings from Syracuse, NY, where spring has finally arrived. Last snow was May 12; it melted after a couple hours. Many thanks for this recap & expansion on van improvements. You look great: Rested, good haircut, pretty shirt, etc. Glad you are healthy & happy. Enjoy Joshua Tree!
Thanks. It has been both restful and productive these past few months. My grandfather was born and raised in Syracuse. I drove through a few years ago hoping to find the home where he was born but sadly it was gone.
Thanks for sharing~ great ideas! The golf clubs will easily fit in the garage portion of the vehicle. I’ve seen many videos of van conversions where people even have room for bicycles and skis.
True but we keep too much stuff back there. You’d have to really love golf. 😅
@@FromShetoMe Maybe a roof rack option~ I love golf 🏌️♀️
Thanks for all your tips! We are considering getting a Pleasure Way Lexor, and if we do, i'll definitely be coming back to this video for some things to make storage easier!!
The Lexor is a great rig. Good luck.
Thank you for your thoughtful video with great ideas. We are eager to hear about the refrigerator change out. No unnecessary travel in Washington state! Hopefully we can get out soon! Safe and healthy travels!
Seems the fridge is stuck in transit before reaching the distributor, and then it has to be trucked from the east coast to the west. Who knows when we'll get to it but I'm excited about the project.
Hope it opens up a bit up in Washington as we would like to get to Spokane to see some family.
@@FromShetoMe Spokane County is in Phase 2 of the 4 Phase reopening plan. Phase 3 is when we can resume non-essential travel. Here is a link for your planning purposes. Stay safe and healthy.
www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/inslee-statement-progression-safe-start-phases
Idaho here across the border between CDA and Sandpoint. The state parks opening May 31.
Hi, haven't commented in quite a while but we're still following! When traveling it's difficult to keep up. You and I have the same organizing gene. I love making things easier, less complicated, simpler. Thanks for all the info. We're heading up to No. Arizona soon.
We were thinking of heading to Northern AZ but first to Tahoe to celebrate some birthdays. Enjoy your trip.
Well done again! Very clever and helpful upgrades. I appreciate your Thorough and honest review of products. It helps to narrow down the search of so many products out there. Thank you so much!
Really love all your videos Sue, they have given me some great ideas, I live in Australia qld, and have a e- bike, so many things you talk about are relevant. Loved the scenery in your Joshua Tree camping, look forward to the next one, enjoy and stay well.
Love these Greatest Hits mod videos! For your golfing friend... We carry 2 sets of clubs permanently in our Ascent. We walk so smallest & lightest bags: mine is Mizuno carry / stand bag & his is a Ping Moonlight. They fit in the ‘garage.’ If they leave their bed down as we do, they could also live crosswise in the footwell of sofa. Thanks for compiling your mods and hacks. Hope we’re all on the road soon!
Thanks for the tips!
How did you like Joshua Tree? I rode my motorcycle from Florida to there in the month August a few years ago. Next time would do it by RV !
We always enjoy going to Joshua Tree. Except in the summer...too hot!
Cute haircut Deb, I luv it!
Here's the Australian who cut my hair: th-cam.com/channels/hazTzl92FxFpjcMQ0ZCTsw.html
He was here just before the lockdown.
I installed the Vancillary shelf last week (very nice) and we’re about half way through the fabrication & installation of the wam window curtains. 😀 We’re looking to getting on the road pretty soon. Thanks for sharing your mods with us!
Awesome. Let me know how it works out for you. We'll be getting out there soon ourselves.
Great ideas and solutions. Thanks for sharing.
WOW, I thought I was the gadget queen 👸, but you blew my mind, so many kool helpful tools Thanks soooo much
You're hacks are great! Can you tell me the brand of your jeans? Thanks
Thanks. I think they are Second Yoga Jeans.
Thank you!
I dream of owning a Pleasureway van when I retire. I enjoy watching your videos. I like seeing actual van modifications. You are great at explaining each idea. It is fun to watch you and John enjoy yourselves.
Thankyou for sharing all of your clever ideas! Your sweater is very pretty too.
GREAT video I picked up several tips i will use.. Thank you!!
Great video. You mentioned camping in the winter. Don’t you have to worry about the water tanks freezing?
We don't go places where temps get much below 30. Luckily we have the southwest in our backyard and it gives us plenty of options.
Thanks Debbie!! Great ideas and tips. So many good ones, I took notes while watching. I can most of these to my RoadTrek easily.
This couple is on a whole nother level! 10 Thumbs way up.Thanks for the cool ideas. Thinking of putting a treadmill in my van for bad weather woes. Would a low profile treadmill work? WDY think?
LOL. Just drive away from bad weather. 😅
i've always wanted follow your foot steps but my current situation wont let me to it yet , i always watch your videos and id like to thank you and know that your efforts are inspiring me, giving me hope and they're really bvery informative. thank you so much! keep up the good work, take care always and God bless :-)
There are many difference from my old 2008 Ascent. Being 10 yrs older, I don't worry about drilling holes, lol. But still good deals l can apply to my older Ascent in some area. Keep it up
Thanks for the helpful tips. Love the mods, gadgets, and your vibe.
Hello ! I just picked up my 2018 Pleasureway Ascent and have watched a number of your videos and love many of your ideas.
You showed the Pikavo Security Screen, and I'd like to know if that is ordered already made ro fit exactly on that screen.
I'd like more information if you don't mind ! Thank you. It is 100 degrees here in Portland and obviously a horrible time to
test out the darn Dometic fridge. I watched your other video specifically about the Fridge , with great interest as well as
trepidation. Im new to RVing , and wish I had been aware of the potential problems with cooling to acceptable level.
Thank you so much for your videos !!!!
The screen should fit fine but you will likely have to drill one or two holes. As to the fridge, consider buying the SensorPush device so you can monitor the temperature: www.amazon.com/dp/B01AEQ9X9I/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
Just found your channel. Just got a small very small camper and looking for ideas to organize and you have a bunch. That little trash thing.... already ordered. Keeping the link to your store because you have a lot for good inexpensive tips for making a small space work.
Thank you! Enjoy every square inch and pass on any ideas you come up with.
Wonderful hacks. Thank you
Thank you so much for all of your tips! I am a newbie with a Roadtrek Zion SRT and will hopefully make my van as organized as yours. Stay safe and thanks again!
It's only organized on Day 1 of a trip. Then it looks like a cyclone came through. Her name is Debbie
😁 Love you guys!
Thanks for the hacks and as usual a great job on the video. As you know I have incorporated some of them in our Lexor. Have a safe Memorial Day weekend!
FYI, the single magnet was not strong enough to hold the bolster on bumpy or windy roads. May add a second one.
From She to Me. Thanks for the feedback and we haven’t had any problem of them falling or moving, but I usually have a few heavy items on them and they don’t move at all.
Thanks for your interesting ideas. I love seeing people using their Rvs as great "piggy banks". After more than 40 years of camping (tents, trailers, van) one room in my basement is needed for storage although I throw or give away quite a lot of my equipment from time to time. Why is there always some item/tool better than the one before??? - Good luck with the replacing of your fridge. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
Thanks for all your upgrades in this video. My husband and I just purchased an Ascent 2021.5, and are working through problems and with a big change overs not mention. Please let listeners know Pleasureway eliminated all the extentions on the counter top for food prep. It is not mentioned in any material we read or saw. However with the compressor refrigerator there was room for a food pantry, but no place to prep food.
Still trying to figure that logic out. Debbie would you post type of glue used to put magnets on the sides of the panel for bolsters. Thank you again for your inspiring videos.
Funny you should mention the extension because I just met a viewer today who told me about that. Apparently they moved the control panel to where the extension table is now. I'm wondering if the Lagun table they now use helps with prep space. I've been considering removing that extension and replacing it with a Lagun table that would give me even more prep space.
As far as the glue used, I didn't use glue but relied on the adhesive backing that came with my magnets. But if you put them on plastic, then it is important to use the 3M primer first. You could also use the magnets with the whole in the center for screws.
It will be a few weeks before I can mention the changes that have been made but that's a good idea. Thanks.
@@FromShetoMe We thought about the lagun table and you have to make sure to cover the leather from any spills ,or hot food. We are looking at having an extention made on the couch side of the countertop,and cover the leather , especially for morning prep when the table is down because the bed is extended. Your videos are truly encouraging to me, and looking forward to being on the road. Thanks
What dashcam do you have? Thank you.
It was a Kenwood 520NS we think.
26:00 Pepper Spray - you cannot bring into Canada any spray marketed for “attack/defense against people” however you can bring it if it is marketed for “attack/defense against dogs/animals”.
Love the two of you!
Wonderful ideas too!
Thank you for sharing!
I have a 2011 Pleasure-Way.
MommaFaye 🌺
Found your channel because we’re buying a Pleasure Way, not sure which one yet, they’re so hard to find right now. We’re looking at a Lexor tomorrow. 🤞🏻 we really like your videos, you do a very good job. I love all your organizing tips and I’m looking forward to looking at some of the travel vlogs too. Great outfits too, Im so curious where you got this top from that you’re wearing in this video? (Sorry not van related)
No problem. I got it at REI a year or so ago in the cycling department. We’re on the road so I can’t tell you the brand but it has pockets in the back.
Thank you so much for this Debbie.
So helpful and informative. You have the best rig. One day hope to have the same!
Love your video. Lots of great ideas
Great ideas! we really like weathertech liner too. Thank you for sharing 😊
ya'll are very organized
Great ideas! Thanks! (Jane)
Can you provide the model number for the Weathertek Mats? thank you!
Best if you go to weathertech.com and enter your year and model to get the right mats.
Only 50$ 🧐😂. Great tips n gadgets ! Wonderful.
I love that you put all theses things in a couple of videos. Great tips and I can’t wait to see what I can do or what I need. Unfortunately I haven’t hit the road yet. I was going to start in April and travel through August. Well obviously that plan didn’t work out. I have a van but don’t really know what I’m going to need yet. I did buy the warm window coverings fabric. I had to take an unexpected trip to Missouri in January and the fabric Im Sure helped immensely since I traveled through snow. I didn’t have time to sew coverings on the fabric I just cut it out and used the magnets you suggested to hang them using the metal window frames. Thanks again for your informative channel. Stay safe and healthy 🚐😷❤️💐
maitilda mcintyre b
I'm building my van rv and using some of your great ideas!!! Thank you and be safe.
Great video! It’s given me lots ideas to use in my Motorhome 👍🏼
Where did you get that awesome shelf basket that you attached to the ceiling and it collapses?
Check my Amazon storefront: www.amazon.com/shop/fromshetome
Great video Debbie. I learned a few more things. 😃
Great tips !
We just bought our Lexor. I was going to add the Fiamma roof rack and put our Thule sky box on top for golf clubs, Coleman pack n go
BBQ etc.
Let me know how it works if you do that. Will it require a ladder? I'm not familiar with the Fiamma roof rack but will check it out.
As a followup question, I would like your views on a spare tire rack. You had one installed but I did get where it was from. My research suggests that Owl seems good and it includes a ladder to the roof. Have you ever really needed to get to the roof on your Ascent? Just trying to figure out if that makes sense.
Thanks,
Jim
We’ve never needed to get to the roof. Owl is a good option. Ours was from Agile Off-road. Owl has made a nice improvement to theirs. We recently tried to contact them and never got a response. So you may have to be persistent.
I love your videos, for both the travel and tips! How do you like the shower head? Our outdoor shower didn’t come with a shower hose and head. Thanks!
We really like our newer shower heads. Unfortunately, the one we bought for the outdoor shower was discontinued. We bought the new model for the indoor shower and like it too but not sure it would fit in the small outside compartment.
The drink cozy rattle so funny
Thank you for all your videos. You and John are an inspiration on many levels. Question: I noticed on one of your videos that you have a shade (Sunbrella material?) on your Fantastic fan. Did you make it or purchase it? Did you use Contact Cement for the velcro on the ceiling? Does it really stick over time?
I made it using a product called "warm window" fabric. You can get it at Joanne's fabrics. It is terrific for keeping out heat and cold. I use the same fabric on all my window curtains. I used velcro for several years but then discovered I could screw in snaps in the four corners and replaced the velcro. I purchased the snaps and tools from Sailrite.com
Thank you for these amazing Hacks it’s incredible how you organized everything and the little magnets that are powerful at something new Mollys wanting to find new ways for storage you having credible designs thank you so much for sharing I’d love to know about your curtains and if you made them or if you ordered them both of you having a beautiful day many blessings to both of you
Thanks. Yes, I made the curtains and would send the link to the video but we’re on the move. I may have the link in the description box. The material is a product called “warm windows” purchased from Joanne’s fabrics. It makes all the difference.
Thank you have a good safe adventure
Wondering How you settled on the isotherm 115 refrigerator. There are several others available such as the Nova Kool 4500. About the same price and size and is what Winnabago is currently using in some of their Travados. I have a 2020 Ascent and am looking at doing the refrigerator change. It's a shame the Dometics don't work very well. But on hot days they allow temps to go up to near 45 degrees in the refrigerator. I tried both internal and external fans with no luck. Looking forward to any thing you come up with that helps, thanks for the research
Lots of people have recommended the NovaKool. I don't think the 4500 would work in the Ascent though. There is a vent pipe that runs up the back side which reduces the depth of the opening. The NovaKool 3800 would certainly work. We really won't know all that is entailed until we start the install but the Isotherm has an interesting back side. The top and bottom are shallower than the middle. We are hoping that this will help with the installation. I may be wrong, but I think the power use is better on the Isotherm. It also seems to have a larger freezer compartment which is something I would like. Our new fridge has been ordered so hopefully we'll be able to share more and better info with everyone before too long.
I loved your ideas and improvements so I subbed ... mainly because you are gorgeous :o)
Did you replace the initial method of attaching the warm window curtains with the neodymium magnets and if so did you enlarge the covering to reach the metal on the coach? Thank you for all you do to make my RV life so much easier.
I haven’t finished the conversion yet but on my side of the bed I used snaps in the valence and magnets at bottom and side and had to extend the fabric a little. Just pieced it with additional fabric. John’s side still has velcro. Also changed out the back curtains with magnets.
How did you add a alarm to your Ascent? Haven't found anyone up here who can?
That's bizarre. Any car stereo place should be able to do it. We had ours done at Beach Auto Sound.
@@FromShetoMe- are all the doors alarm triggered? Maybe because mine is a 2008 and a Little different??
@@doggonervn211 I don't know. We have to get a new windshield, which means new window tint, so I'll ask our guy if they are all alarmed. But I know that if you bang on the car, the alarm will go off.
You did a pretty good job of describing and demonstrating the accessories in your van except, except, for those rechargeable fans. WHERE DID YOU GET THOSE?? We have had to resort to a 110 volt fan which is big and tends to draw a lot of battery power.
Larry
Thanks. Fan is on my Amazon storefront. Link in description box. Let me know if you can’t find it.
What do you use to affix the round magnet onto the window? I like the idea of using a magnet to keep the bolster from moving during driving instead of using the Velcro! Thanks! So many good ideas!
We just got back from a trip and the single magnet was not strong enough to hold the bolster. I'm going to experiment with additional magnets. The round magnets that I purchased have an adhesive backing. Because it is going on to plastic and not glass, you need to use a primer on the plastic before attaching the adhesive.
Great video. Try nano tape instead of the magnets. It holds really well and is removable and washable. You can use it anywhere.
For the paper towel holder
Completely off topic! I love your shirt!!! Where did you get it???
You're a great speaker, informative vid, very pleasant.
Thanks. I got it from REI last year in bike department.
Cool ~ thanks
Apologies if this was asked and answered but would you mind letting just know the make/model of the dash cam you bought please? Thanks in advance.
Kenwood stereo DNX994s: amzn.to/2EcH8cE
integrates with Kenwood Dash Cam DRV-N520
Once again, I learn so much from you. Thank you. I’m still trying to figure out what we want to do about bedding. What are you doing now? Someone recommended RV Superbag. Have you looked at this? Thank you
We have a slightly different situation from most folks. John is very tall and his feet have to hang over. He does not want a sleeping bag type of arrangement. But lots of folks like that type. I've looked at a bunch of them, like the one from Beddy's Bags: beddys.com/collections/rvs-campers
We use a down comforter covered by a duvet and that has worked quite well. On the bottom we just use a twin fitted sheet on the top part of the bed and another twin fitted sheet on the bottom part. Has worked quite well and doesn't take up a bunch of room.
Dianne, hello, nice stuff, that dashboard cover , on my 91 TAURUS, was UNBEARABLE, I like you just put a piece of fabric, but design, made it fall until I flung a readymade heavy fabric cover held on with 3 pieces of double stick tape , new car is 90 % better Then that ‘refrigerator skinny spigot container,,behind your seat is great, but , is your potable water filtered? Or do you have a ‘travel sized BRKEY FILTER ?, as hey say, ‘’necessity is the MOTHER of all ideas’ as you found out in time. Great ides overall, do stat well &safe, we are still on LOCKDOWN here, in N.J. going to COSTCO, hoping to find what we need
Cheers FROM NJ🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
We refill our bottle with filtered water. Prefer to do that than drink from the RV tank. I had originally purchased a Berkey but there is just no place to put it in the RV so we gave it to our son. Things are easing up here but we will continue to play it safe, as best we can.
Great ideas. Thanks for sharing.
I was hoping you could tell me the name of the silicone holder you have in the bathroom I can't find them at Ulta Thanks in advance I love your videos
They are made by "Real Techniques" the company that does makeup brushes.
Hi ! Wondering where you got that extra cup holder ? It’s not in the amazon ! Thanks
Do you mean this one? Hopkins SMT Go Gear Twin Cupholder, (Black) www.amazon.com/dp/B000FGIBYQ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_w8u3EbMD3X70D
Could you please send the name and where to order this cup holder adapter?? I see ones, but they don't seem to have the base to attach in the console pull out of the sprinter. Thank you,
cavevan.myshopify.com/products/sprinter-cupholder-snack-tray-bamboo-and-stainless
Debbie, you are the female version of MacGyver. You rock!
Thanks for another great video!!!
Cool Van. Where can I get the mosquitto sticks?
I purchased on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B074TRFZHG/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
@@FromShetoMe awesome. Ty so much. Mosquittos are treacherous in FL.
Great ideas. Love your top, will u share where it's from? Thanks
REI. It is a cycling top and purchased over a year ago so don't know if you can find it.
@@FromShetoMe Thanks for info
I’m looking for ways to travel with golf clubs in our Pleasure way.
That’s a tough one but I seem to recall there were a couple suggestions in the comments.
I see on your Amazon page your have listed the Fan-Tastic Vent cover but you did not mention it in your upgrades. Do you like the cover and does it work well for you?
LOL, I should probably remove it because the solar panels are too close to the vent and couldn’t get it on. Thanks for the reminder.
From She to Me Thanks for the quick reply! I just getting ready to
going to order one for our 2020 Ascent!
Hi Great video . Thanks for the tips.
I don’t know about dimensions but maybe a Thule cargo carrier on the roof might fit the golf clubs in it.
So... Many... Modifications!
I had a couple of questions...
At 9 minutes you showed an "indentation" behind the drivers seat. Would that have been so you could lean the chair back more?
At 31 minutes, you mentioned a ceramic heater for winter. Are you having issues with the heating system in the Pleasure Way?
Thanks as always for all the information!
Be seeing you!
Yes, that is what it is for.