Van Service & Upgrades

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Pop-Top Camper Myths Busted: Wind, Leaks, and Insulation Tips for Lightweight Pop-Up Campers

— Santi, Head Van Engineer
Tagged: camper maintenance insulation pop top camper pop up camper under 1500 lbs wind safety
Debunking common pop-top camper myths with practical thresholds, leak diagnostics, and lightweight insulation tips for safer, more comfortable camping.

Ford Transit Trail vs AWD Transit: Which One Should You Choose?

— Santi, Head Van Engineer
Tagged: ford transit all wheel drive ford transit trail suspension upgrades transit awd transit trail tire fitment transit trail vs awd transit van conversion vanlife
Clear, practical comparison of the Ford Transit Trail and factory AWD Transit to help you pick the best platform for overlanding, winter driving, or a conversion build.
Van Life Essentials: Off-Grid Power for Weekenders The Vansmith

Van Life Essentials: Off-Grid Power for Weekenders

— Santi, Head Van Engineer
Tagged: alternator charging off-grid power shore power basics small rvs solar for rv van life essentials weekender van
A practical guide to off-grid power for weekenders and small RVs. Learn how much solar and battery you need, when to use a DC-DC charger, and simple builds for 1–3 night trips.

2019 Mercedes Sprinter: Essential Inspections Before You Purchase

— Santi, Head Van Engineer
Tagged: 2015 mercedes benz sprinter for sale 2019 mercedes sprinter sprinter dpf def sprinter inspection checklist sprinter rust used sprinter rv
A practical inspection checklist for buying a used 2019 Mercedes Sprinter. Spot DPF/DEF, wiring, rust, transmission, and RV conversion issues so you can buy with confidence.
Mounted van battery bank with BMS and wiring neatly organized

Van Life Essentials: Power & Charging 101 — Batteries, Alternator Charging, Inverters & Safety

— Santi — Head Van Engineer
Tagged: batteries electrical inverters solar van build van life essentials
A practical guide to van power systems: battery chemistries and sizing, alternator vs DC‑DC charging, solar and MPPT, inverter selection, wiring, and safety tips for weekend rigs to full‑time builds.