Van Tour | Our New Tiny Home On Wheels (With Bathroom)

Thank you to Jackery for sponsoring this video. Click uk.jackery.com/pages/jackery-day to learn more about Jackery Day 2022, for the exciting new product launch on May 13th , starting from 4 A.M. (UK Time) via a worldwide live stream! There will also be giveaways too!
This van life video we give you a van tour of our new tiny home on wheels. This is our 80's vintage rv campervan that cost $7500. We have a VW t4 campervan back in England but we now have a Ford Econoline 250 in the US to add to the bean family. It can sleep 4 people and has a built-in kitchen and bathroom with shower and toilet.
#JackeryDay
We will be experiencing vanlife in US soon so be sure to hit that notification bell to be notified of future content coming soon! 🔔
⭐ Featured product: Jackery Solar Generator 1000 (uk.jackery.com/products/jacke...)
⭐ Come Say Hello!
▹Facebook: / travelbeans
▹Instagram: / travel_beans
⭐ EQUIPMENT WE USE:
Our Drone: geni.us/beansdrone
Our Camera: geni.us/beanscamera
Our Lenses:
Wide - geni.us/beansmainlens
Tight - geni.us/beanslonglens
Microphone - geni.us/beansmic
GoPro - geni.us/beansgopro
Small Tripod - geni.us/beanstripod1
Big Tripod - geni.us/beanstripod2
Laptop - geni.us/beanslaptop
⭐ SERVICES WE USE:
▹Where We Find Our Music (Epidemic Sound) - share.epidemicsound.com/travel...
▹Helpful KZbin Tools (TubeBuddy) - www.tubebuddy.com/TRAVELBEANS
▹Teach English Online & Earn Money - www.cambly.com/en/tutors?refe...
▹Travel + Medical Insurance For Nomads (SafetyWing) Now Includes COVID-19 Coverage
Nomad Insurance: www.safetywing.com/?reference...
Remote Health: safetywing.com/remote-health?...
▹SkyRoam Personal WiFi - www.skyroam.com/?rfsn=2382845...
NOTE: Some of these may be affiliate links, which means when you buy something we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you, and it really helps to support us - so thank you! :)
⭐ About Travel Beans:
Welcome to the official Travel Beans KZbin channel! On this channel, you’ll find a variety of travel and vlog content, in which you’ll see us in places like Thailand, Japan, USA, Slovenia, and more.
In 2017 we left home with just £500 in our bank account and a dream to make a sustainable travel lifestyle happen! We are now living our dream as digital nomads and want to inspire you to create your own story, whatever it may be!
After 5 years of aimless, yet enjoyable, backpacking around the world we found ourselves in New York City battling with depression. At this point, we decided to go home and confront this problem head-on. After 6 tough months at home we decided to go away again, but this time with a goal in mind.. to turn travel into a lifestyle.
Our time spent battling depression has influenced our outlook on life dramatically! We are now traveling the world in search of what makes us happy. In our vlogs, we talk openly and honestly about our travel experiences, the digital nomad life and depression. We hope our videos can help to inspire you to create a life that makes you happy!
⭐ Make sure to Subscribe to our channel for more videos like this one! ⭐

[@TravelBeans]

Thank you to Jackery for sponsoring this video. Click uk.jackery.com/pages/jackery-day to learn more about Jackery Day 2022, for the exciting new product launch on May 13th , starting from 4 A.M. (UK Time) via a worldwide live stream! There will also be giveaways too!

[@MrMrmcook2008]

Microwave wont use a huge amount of electricity/battery , especially as it cooks so quickly.....

[@lisadoran8622]

I've been thinking about buying a Jackery for Larry when we go camping!

[@asifmuniruniverse7732]

Hi

[@sensitivecake]

I own one of these! To answer your questions... 1. It has 2 fuel tanks because you're only going to get about 10 miles to the gallon, and 2 different tanks help spread out the weight of all of the fuel you will need. Sorry... 2. The microwave only works on Shore power. 3. Pro tip: If you drill a 2-3 inch hole between the generator box (that's the outside box on the driver's side) and the area under the couch, you can pull the shore power cord all the way into the van, thread it into the generator box, and plug it into the jakery using an adapter (they're $6 at lowes). If your jackery is fully charged, you will be able to use the regular electrical outlets while you are driving, and you won't need to update your battery to something bigger cause everything will run off the jackery. If you put solar on the roof you can run the cables behind the pantry and into the generator box using the same hole under the couch and charge your jackery while you drive. (note: it probably won't be powerful enough to run your microwave) 4. buy a big bottle of fuel additive and use it on a regular basis (it's the stuff you add to your gas tank to clean your engine parts) Your fuel pumps are a pain to replace, this will give them some TLC if they have residue from old, bad gas 5. the coffee maker toaster oven is made for dorm rooms and is a smart idea.

[@davidwolstenholme3672]

Ive never had a car cant even drive in the early 1960s i had a motorbike.But obviously the second tank on frank is a reserve tank so if you run out or nearly out of fuel in the main tank take the reserve tank will take over, so you are english .My late wife and i were born in the city of york ,yorkshire i in 1944 and she in 1948.

[@jaygold4467]

Change out ALL the fluids the first thing. Including transmission and rear differential fluids. You will notice a dramatic difference in performance immediately. Also, air filter, and fuel filter. Just do these things alone can dramatically improve your gas mileage. Also, consider new spark plugs and wires.

[@aaronweiser5421]

They probably won't do it

[@jaygold4467]

@@aaronweiser5421 I agree. Ignorance.

[@christywright4039]

@@aaronweiser5421 it went up in flames they put a video of it completely ingulfed in flames. So scary they weren't injured but frank is completely roasted 😳.

[@Motormad196]

You've found a real gem in Frank.The interior looks in really good condition for its age. The chairs and bed hardly used. Happy days ahead

[@TravelBeans]

We don’t want to jinx it but few we have found a gem as well

[@angcam42]

Agree no bad condition at all

[@millyslife9170]

Great find may I ask how much did you pay for such a beauty?

[@Ec1ipse..]

Frank went boom

[@rebekahritchie9012]

Think frank was jinxed! 👀

[@toycarcollector]

2 fuel tanks because 8 to 10 miles per gallon. Did your mechanic check all the cooling system hoses of the engine? Over heating and blow a hose is a common problem on a very old van. Also make sure the tires are less than 10 years old, some say 7. Good luck.

[@TravelBeans]

It’s in the mechanics now to be ready for a big trip. I will double check they check that though, thanks

[@mdsign001]

"Over heating" Well ... You were right, this van suffered a very bad case if overheating.

[@sandramillward8759]

You have two fuel tanks so that you can travel longer distances when out west or long distances between gas stations. That way you won't run out of gas in the middle of nowhere.

[@stum8374]

Where on this green earth did the word gas come from when talking about fuel ! What happens when you ask at the fuel station for gas (for cooking)do they at attempt to fill the car ?? Any way a passenger vehicle doing 15mpg should never been on the road.stop complaining about the price of fuel you've made ur bed so lie in it,I can get 60-68 mpg from my car,are you sick now !!!

[@tayahmoon]

@@stum8374 if people want it for cooking they ask for propane

[@maplecloud9855]

@@stum8374 in the USA they call it Gas for fuel. Acknowledge that

[@mary.1984]

@@stum8374 Gas is petrol. They're in America, the terms are different here. And we use propane for things like camp stoves or cooking. ( unless they get a solo stove which uses wood. )

[@Chantal_4107]

@@stum8374 are you alright mate? 🤣

[@flyfishing1776]

Locked empty outside compartment was for generator. Small fuel tank COULD be for a generator that was taken out. Blessings Be safe

[@drivepro1]

Frank is awesome, well so are you guys. I have only recently found your channel and well, I gotta say I love it. I have had three rv's in the States over the years. (I am from NZ). Having an old van is an adventure, there is usually something breaking down, but honestly, that is part of the fun. Things to keep on top of... Give it a birthday with all new fluids, engine, trans, diff, power steering etc. Wheel bearings and tierod ends etc. New brakes all round. Tyres, probably are old so consider something with a bit of grip rather than highway tyres. They will be noisier but will be so much better in the dirt, sand and snow. Hoses, consider replacing them all, a blown radiator hose can destroy the entire engine but the water hoses etc are cheap and it's nice having new ones that you know are clean. Get rubber gloves and hand sanitiser for those black water emptying jobs, always top up the drinking water before doing the dirty stuff and have a seperate hose for washing down the poo pipes! Get rid of the home fridge and go with a 3 way if you can afford it, then it will run on gas, (I presume you have propane for the hot water?). A couple of outdoor chairs are worth having. An awning would be a great addition for a little shade when parked up in the desert. I could go on but hey, you will get lots of advice. Main thing is have fun. I have been to 45 states so far, I challenge you to beat that😃

[@jt.s.7418]

Wow, listen to this advice!😃

[@spiritflame]

r.i.p Frank

[@mariondiemert430]

Frank will be your friend if, and only if, you buy an attachable screen to both doors. They sell them with double faced velcro for easy install. Happy and safe travels!

[@shiralleehaggart72]

Keep it's original layout because it is what makes Frank such a unique van.

[@tonytiangco]

Can't wait to see your first itinerary. The adventure of Frank and Beans !

[@deekayunited3445]

Is is the Frank or the beans? I think it might be a bit of both :-)

[@PR-lw2oq]

Freaking Hilarious

[@JOHNMONO]

I love the simplicity of a retro van, less to go wrong and so much character , just looking at the instrument cluster , no LED's just good old fashioned dials, i'm sure Frank is a gud un

[@DVaccarelli1988]

The company that originally built out this van was Coachman, which the model name of this Class B camper van is the Dearborn. It looks like the Whirlpool refrigerator in this van wasn't original, as it does look modern.

[@debbylou5729]

I had a full sized ford van....v8 so it could actually go uphill. I had 4 kids and,drove cross country from the east coast to Seattle many times. We are super clean...baths, showers, washed hair every day. The smells that lived in that van were unbelievable. After 6 days I had to wash everything and leave the doors and windows open. Can't even imagine LIVING in one

[@oggie1967]

Man, I love Frank in all of his retro coolness! Just give him a Deeeeep clean, fix what needs to be fixed and hit the road! Sooo jealous, we love doing huge road trips when we come to the US, last time we used Las Vegas as a base & clocked up just over 1000 miles in a week in our rental SUV! Bloody loved every minute! Enjoy Beans!👍😊👏👏👏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇺🇸

[@RidingElevators]

I’m impressed by how well it looks for being its age! Can’t wait to see y’all adventures in it!

[@James_71]

Frank n Beans 👍😁 Looks really good for it's age.

[@OldBaron5664]

Main thing is you are safe, thank god you were not sleeping when the fire broke out stay safe

[@mrf792]

Hi! Love the video and wish you both lots of fun adventures with Frank in the US! A few things I noticed... The reason there is outside access to the back of the fridge is probably because the original fridge used to run off of propane which was/is a very common thing in RVs. Someone replaced it at some point with the fridge you currently have that now runs off of electric and is clearly newer. (there's more proof of this on the outside. The silver rectangle with 2 holes would have been for the propane fridge as well) More proof that there was once propane is the big wooden cutting board acting as your countertop. This was where the propane stove used to be and someone replaced that as well which is why you have an electric stove now. The second fuel tank could either be just a backup fuel tank or could have been for a generator that frank may have once had. Not uncommon either. There is an easy way to clean off the corrosion on the battery. Just a little diet coke and a brush will do the trick but probably a good idea to get something better anyway since you have a lot of things that draw heavy power. You're right about cassettes at thrift shops! Check out a Goodwill, I see them there all the time. Also vintage record stores will have them as well. Frank is super cool and I'm excited to see more. CHEERS!!

[@rubnsracn]

@Spring is in The Air 🇺🇸 Only if you're looking for specific cassettes. You might have shipping charges which will be more than the cassette itself. Thrift stores and yard sales are the best place to look. You never know which ones you might find for a dime or a quarter. Frank seems to fit the two of you like a glove. But he'll never pick up your accent.

[@stephenewing6370]

I owned a 90 model look just like it I was is white with brown striping

[@drenelt]

This sums up all the ideosyncracies...the fridge, the lack of off grid capabilities and the hot water capability. Not required but not the Europe experience.

[@mrf792]

@@rubnsracn I agree…And if you’re going to be on adventures anyway (like you do in an RV), the hunt for cassettes is much more fun than waiting for an online order. If you’re on the move, where do you ship it to anyway? 😆

[@bobnicholls]

'Frank - A poo with a view'. Don't change the layout, it's a classic. Maybe add a worktop extension flap to the left of the taps, and fly nets to the windows, especially at the top bunk area. Looking forward to your adventure across the pond.

[@siperkins6475]

The smaller tank is kinda setup as a reserve tank basically for emergencies. It was common in the older style Ford trucks/vans.

[@Hei_hey]

I like that you can tow a small trailer for extra things, like water gear (canoe) or dining tent. Also a sleep tent that you cover with a second story canvas is good for hot seasons. Can weatherproof it using Nikwax ...has no pfas chemicals (big problem at airports since 1940s water quality) Think you should store on a cheap land lot that can build septic water carport. ..or natural rammed earth double wall garage shed, hemp insulation. Can plant native species to keep "yard" like small trees or perennial grasses.

[@tylersavannabrown6720]

Can’t wait to watch later when home from work; looks like a lovely travel van

[@sandrap6321]

Love Frank. Hold on to all his retro vibeness & accessories- even if you never use them. Someday down the road, those 1988 original details may be the selling points that attract a new buyer into making a nice offer for Frank.

[@billfish5913]

My wife and I bought a Slide In truck camper last year, with full bathroom, kitchen, queen bed, etc. We love that we can unload the camper and have our truck to use, when we aren’t going on a camping trip. My only regret is that my wife can’t get up while we are on the road and get me a coffee and a sandwich. I do all of the driving. I like that you can get up and get things from the back of Frank, or ride back there. Frank rocks!!😎👍

[@harryrimmer6830]

Ah, remember when.... My wife and I started our RVing lifefstyle in a Class B, 1973 Open Road camper, which was very similar to you RV. It was a great weekend camper. However, .... The Bed. You will find that, ultimately, one of you is going to have to sleep on the part of the sofa that serves as the backrest. It is just a little too narrow for an adult to comfortably sleep on. Ours tended to lean towards that edge after someone has slept on it for a while. I eventually made a couple of props to keep that edge of the bed level. The Refrigerator. Your refrigerator seems to be one that was made for a university dorm room and not an RV. That is why the straps are necessary (to hold the door shut while traveling). A good RV refrigerator runs on 120 Volt AC, 12 Volt DC, and/or propane. This is especially necessary if you "boondock" on a regular basis. When boondocking, the ability to run the refrigerator on propane is priceless. The Cooking Units. I recently saw a video which highlighted an RV where the propane stove had been exchanged for a built-in induction cooktop. You might want to consider this. Unfortunately, an induction cooktop normally runs on 120 Volt AC, so it limits your abilities when boondocking. As a work around, you could carry a very small butane burner to put on the countertop just so you can heat water, or to warm up some soup or canned chili. Don't dismiss the microwave oven. If you are hooked up to 120 Volt AC, it is very handy in the morning to heat up a breakfast burrito, or sausage, egg, and cheese biscuit for a quick breakfast with no clean up required. A Generator. Your walk through did not show that your unit has a built in 120 Volt AC generator. Again, this is a very handy thing to have if you want to boondock. My wife and I like to boondock, and it is nice to be able to run the generator just long enough run the air conditioner in the evening to cool the camper down, to heat your breakfast burrito in the morning, or to heat your dinner on the induction cooktop. Adding a built in unit might not be practical, or cost effective, in which case a properly sized portable generator might be worth considering.

[@vicki9929]

Love, Love, Love Frank!! I was so excited to see your post with a tour of inside!!!! I think with a butane/propane stove top, like you have in the UK, it will be perfect for you! And I love the layout! With the windows open by the top bunk, it will be considerably cooler even during the day, the cross breeze will really help. I think you will be surprised at the air movement going through when you have all the windows open. We did that in our 20 foot Class C. Yes, a microwave is common in U.S. rvs, and the coffee pot/toaster oven is common as well, usually used for small spaces, ie: apartments, dorm rooms, camper kitchens, etc…. Many, many Happy Trails! Looking forward to watching y’all’s trip with Endless Adventures (I also follow them). So exciting!

[@carolineoneill5145]

Frank is the cutest van and in such great condition. I might rethink the bathroom area eventually but for now it's a brilliant rv. Enjoy every moment 💜

[@rogerwa123]

To save you potential breakdowns in something of this vintage, have the tie rod ends and ball joints checked (if these go, you will have a bad day). Also find someone who knows how to do a tune up. This is earlier than the computer controlled vehicle and will need plugs, wires, points replaced and adjusted, cap rotor, and timing checked. Also check fuel filter(s) and hoses. Sounds like a lot but most of this is what would have been called a tune up in 1988. Dual fuel tanks are there because there is not a big enough cavity in one place to have a large enough tank. They add a second one where there is a big enough cavity underneath.

[@kathrynkai738]

Maybe painting the inside of the cupboards white would help with the smell. You guys are going to have so much fun in the US! The microwave will be useless if you’re going to use the coffee/toaster oven. Frank is a beauty.

[@carolinelythgoe2794]

I love Frank! So retro! You will make many many years of fun and adventure!! Xx

[@CleaningLady1972]

Good luck with Frank. Hope you get his engine checked out thoroughly given his age. Fords of that age also had the option to come with 2 fuel tanks so it was an option and not unusual for the time. Happy motoring and hope you enjoy your trip around the US. Be sure to check out the Adirondack Park if you make it to NY :)

[@stevenmoser7233]

The big outside storage is a generator bay. A 4k generator will run all the systems. Frank looks like the ultimate tour van. Enjoy your adv.

[@elliottmanning]

Sure looked like a really nice van, RIP Frank... So sorry for your loss...

[@WilliamL1988]

Love the new camper, it might sound weird but I like the sound of closing those old school doors lol. But having your own bathroom is a must, I've grown up traveling to every state pulling camper with my family and campground bathrooms can be a nightmare. Sometimes they aren't cleaned that often.

[@nickthomas181]

Don't change it, it's retro loveliness. I've never seen a bath in a van or a loo in the rear I suppose you can open the doors to let the air through if it's a heavy load!

[@TravelBeans]

We really love the retro feel of it too and definitely plan to keep it that way going forward ☺️🙏

[@nickthomas181]

@@TravelBeans Question do think you can have a KZbin pow-wow with Chris and Marriane from Tread The Globe who are in the USA?

[@liberationenabled4593]

As for the second fuel tank - this is a reserve tank so that if the main one runs out, you have fuel to get to the gas station.

[@tpaairman]

The reason for the second fuel tank is they take an existing van design and modify it to be a camper, so part of that is adding an extra fuel tank. Also the gear shift handle in the steering column is actually still very common in pickup trucks and some vans.

[@boppermacca9346]

Cool van, I find the gear shift on the steering column leaves more space in the center. An old school 4 speed manual gear box column shift would freak you out. An old 4 on the tree takes a little getting used too

[@hunter17hmr]

Great video Beans, can't wait to see your adventures in Frank 😁. Personally I'd lose the fixed toilet and shower area at the back, and have a fixed bed. With storage underneath (more batteries), and above. Then guests could sleep on the bed at the front, and make the roof bed into permanent storage. That's what I'd do, can't wait to see what.you choose to do. Stay safe 😁

[@thomasmurray4407]

Before you hook up "city" water at a campground purchase a pressure regulator to connect in line on the water hose. High pressure campground water can and often does destroy the water hoses in a camper. Especially older units. This will be inconvenient and likely costly to repair. Looks like a camper in good condition for the age.

[@monikahagen4561]

Frank is really a smart guy. I love his design. Perhaps the smaller tank is for the diesel heater.

[@neilfraser1235]

Thanks for the tour, looks like you got yourself a real solid van. Of course once you add the beans touch it will be even better. After you get the mechanic to take a look at it and get the a/c fixed, the first thing I would do is steam clean the carpet and upholstery to clean out the years of dust it has accumulated, especially if you are going to be sleeping on it. You wouldn't want to be breathing all that stuff in.

[@M16Scow]

Great looking Van, I'm glad you got the purchasing figured out. I would want to get a 12v fridge and upgrade the leisure battery to SOK's, or similar, with solar. A 1 or 2 burner propane or butane stove and a BBQ would cover the cooking

[@PeterChelmsford]

I would have to sleep on the sofa bed as I know I would bang my head all the time in the other one. Looking forward to seeing Frank on tour. 😁

[@YasinNabi]

You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life. --Steve Jobs;';'

[@Angela-1974]

Frank looks awesome, definitely got a retro vibe 😎 Looking forward to seeing your adventures around the U.S with Frank 😁

[@TravelBeans]

Yeah, we love the retro vibe ❤️

[@jenniferluna1211]

Frank’s layout is awesome! The bathroom in the rear is perfect because is leaves the van as “open concept” as possible and makes the space seem larger. I would get some solar on top of the van as well as the Jackery and you may be able to run the appliances off grid which could be nice. Another change might be to change the carpet for vinyl flooring since it’s easier to keep clean. And perhaps paint the cabinets or stain them lighter. Congrats on such a great find! There is so much to see here in the US and I hope you enjoy your time here. ❤️

[@garyaaron8425]

Still love you guys....the sheer comedy/comments/narrative gets me each time. So, since your basically American (have an rv purchased in TX), you must have an American theme song--of which I STRONGLY nominate Neil Diamond's "America!!!" And, I'm POSITIVE you can find an 8-track, or regular cassette in any garage sale/flea market. Safe travels you Beans and can't wait for the next video.

[@clvecooledge2407]

Emma & Alex the second fuel filler cap could have been for an onboard generator that's no longer there ,if it was for a generator if Frank was mine I would restore it back to original ,solar panels are great as well ,a generator gives you instant power & allow you to do wild camping for ever same as solar panels,Eric & alison had a generator In clementine got rid of it to noisy which ever way you go should be perfect happy travelling beans.

[@donaldwallace7934]

Many types of vehicles in the US have two fuel tanks, especially pickup trucks, and in your case, motor homes. Not unusual in the United States. Also, the gear shift on the steering column was pretty standard back in the day, and is still common on US pickup trucks today. As for using the microwave, that will likely only operate when you’re plugged into shore power. The batteries won’t handle it. Enjoy your travels in the United States!! I wish I could do what you’re doing here in the US, in the UK!

[@ColinBarrett001]

Where there's a will there's a way Donald. I was lucky enough to spend nearly a year touring the States almost twenty years ago now. I wish I could do it again! Maybe one day. But you will always be welcome here in the UK.

[@jetsetjourneysofficial]

what is the purpose of the two tanks?

[@donaldwallace7934]

@@jetsetjourneysofficial Simply to drive longer between fill ups. In the States, especially out west, that can be very helpful, as in some areas out west, gas stations are fewer in the remote areas.

[@rubnsracn]

@@jetsetjourneysofficial And to also help in the event you run out of gas trying to get to the next station. Lose a lot of stress knowing you have at least a few miles if worse comes to worse.

[@r33gts]

I have a microwave in my van,just need a 2kW inverter (240v UK)and bigger batteries...mine are 24v lithium ones 200Ah with solar panel 🌞👍

[@Andy-Gilbert]

A lot of Newer Vans and Caravans in the UK have built in Microwaves but they are only really for hook up use. Our 2006 Caravan has one and I am surprised how much we use it. Two fuel tanks for increased range which is useful when you don't get many MPG. Will be interested to see what you do to make it your own, Cleaning the sofas then putting throws on is a cheap and easy method for the interior bits, cupboard paint on the surfaces can give a freshen up too.

[@cyndeeh]

Yes,the toaster oven thingy is an American thing. Love frank. What a gem. Most rvs this age,have fallen apart.

[@LaureReminick]

Such a classic gem! May it take care of you well. Love seeing you guys so happy

[@WillsWhereabouts]

I bloody love Frank! Looking forward to watching the adventures 🚐

[@TravelBeans]

We love it, it’s so cheeky. Hope you are well ❤️

[@FreezyAbitKT7A]

@@TravelBeans Not enough room for 1 big gas tank. Get a cassette adapter and connect your phone or mp3 player. Coleman makes a nice folding propane stove (hob?) that could be ran off a larger cylinder with a reducer regulator and an adapter hose.

[@haydenbarr8265]

Will I love your energy! Hope you are well sir❤️ You and the beans need to get some content created sir 😉

[@justwant2Bfree]

Love this van!! Almost perfect in so many ways! Personally, I would take out the carpet and switch the positions of the shower and the toilet, so you could stand in the shower and look out the window/doors when sat on the toilet 😊

[@ethelmini]

Expect the shower is designed to also be used outside, standing by the back door.

[@camaroacrossamerica7266]

Having owned a old rv a 1994. It was a 30ft one. I have to say frank is in amazing shape. I paid 5000 for mine it was rough but i lived in it for 6 months. As far as were to go. Ive traveled 43 states. I highly recommend south dakota black hills and sturgis. Beautiful area.i stayed 2 weeks in a campground there with full hook ups drive through spots. Amaizing owners and hot showers. Very clean park. Days end rv park is its name. Found your channel by accident. Cant wait to see your adventures. Have fun

[@teresalewelling7318]

I’m so excited for y’all. I’ve been missing seeing you’re video’s. And seeing the full you’re having. Looking forward to seeing more. Great job please keep it up.

[@brigand13]

I discovered y'all because I've been a long time fan of Eric and Allison's Endless Adventure series. I'm so glad I did. I cannot wait to follow the four of y'all on your road trip adventure this summer!! And since you registered your van in Montana, you should try to visit that state as part of the journey. There are some wonderful National Parks in the region around eastern Montana and the western part of the Dakotas and they are well worth visiting. BTW< the US Parks Pass is a great value if you plan to visit multiple parks and it is one of the best ways to support the US National Park system. Also, thanks for showing off your Jackery unit. That thing looks awesome!!

[@RevGerryRM]

It's called an auxiliary fuel tank. Its purpose was for additional mileage without having to stop for fuel. They were popular back then. I do not know if they're used on today RVs. I think you're cute, being so young and all😍

[@toddsholtis4470]

I like Frank and he has potential! A few pointers/things for general safety and maintenance that should not be over looked; New battery and battery cables need installed (is the current battery holder or method of holding the battery in place okay?). New tires need purchased as well as wheel/rims if possible. Purchase a new spare tire & wheel/rim. Do you have a good enough jack and tire iron to change the tire if it goes flat? New brakes all around, have the pads and rotors/drums turned or replaced (very cheap). When doing anything on this camper, try to use OEM Ford parts when possible, also Motorcraft parts - Ford branded parts). Absolutely have the radiator flushed and thermostat replaced. Have the transmission fluids changed as well as the filter. Change the engine oil and filter. Change the spark plugs, spark plug wires and rotor/cap if it has one. Replace the fuel filter. Replace the air filter and cabin air filter if it has one. Change the belts on the front of the engine such as the alternator belt, air conditioning belt and the fan belt (it may be one serpentine belt, not sure). Change the differential fluid. Change the power steering fluid. Replace the windshield wiper blades and carry an extra 1 gallon windshield washer fluid container in the camper. Have the mechanic check the suspension bushings, tie rods, steering rack and shocks too. Have the mechanic check all rubber hoses/fuel lines/PVC lines, radiator hoses, etc... Carry extra fuses, that would be nice as well. If upgrading to more batteries make sure the installed area is in a well ventilated area and will not get hot - I like a Lithium Battery Upgrade - Lithionics brand batteries are the best and can be purchased and installed at an RV dealer. My opinion, spend the money now because you do not want to get stuck on the side of the road in no mans land for safety and security reasons. Also see if you can buy AAA RV Plus membership. The reason for dual fuel tanks is to increase your travel distance since this camper will get 6 to 8 miles per gallon maybe. Good luck!

[@JohnandCaraRetiredTravellers]

So happy for you! We LOVE Frank! Safe happy travels Beans! 💖~Cara & John

[@rikdeere]

Hi, actually a new subscriber from Texas - where "Frank" apparently hailed from. We have a class C motorhome that's only a bit bigger than this vehicle and spend a lot of time out on Texas and Western US highways. I am a bit curious about the refrigerator. It looks like a newer compressor based unit, which would need a continual source of electricity to stay cold while in transit. Most of these types of conversion vans were likely outfitted with absorption fridges, that would require propane. It also looks like this RV has a propane tank - which would be used for heater, hot water, and originally for the propane refrigerator. In any case, yes need to replace that battery. I would replace the (corroded) lead/acid with high quality AGM. You could also consider "drop-in" lithium (which would be super nice), but I would make sure that the charging components from the alternator and shore power will be compatible.

[@Justafonso]

I got a question (not related with the van, but equally impressive ahah): How do you record and/or edit your sound? Cause it's crystal clear, one doesn't even hear the surrounding sounds/noise.

[@thriftabout5110]

The "thing on the steering wheel" is called a column shifter (automatic, as you noted) and up until a few years ago, was very common on most full size truck/van chassis. Also, You can buy a Bluetooth FM transmitter for a car for around $20 from Amazon that is inserted into the cigarette lighter socket (some even come with extra USB charging ports). Then you can get an app for your phone (mobile/UK) such as "Tune In Radio" that will broadcast from your phone to the device and then on to the van's radio. It will give you access to many stations from around the country/world as well as specialty stations, kind of like Sirius but it's free as long as your data plan is unlimited. The bonus is that you can receive phone calls through it almost like a modern Bluetooth radio as well as navigation voice directions from Waze, etc. Please buy a NEW white sanitary drinking water hose and filter for your city water connection and throw the old ones away, even if you plan to drink only bottled water. Wal-Mart carries a 90 degree tube that screws into the water port and allows the filter and hose to hang straight down, relieving the stress on the water port. Unfortunately, your city water port is on the wrong side for most campgrounds should you spend time in them but a 25 foot hose should be sufficient to reach under the van to make the connection on the other side. Have a great time!

[@aWanderlustForLife]

This looks so great and I hope you and Frank have so many years together! Thanks for the tour and safe travels 🤗

[@iamfaithfullyhis]

Cool van! Leave it same! New battery & air conditioning & great!👍🏻🇺🇸🌭🍔🍟🥧

[@TravelBeans]

Love the emoji’s 😅

[@johnwilliams640]

Really nice rig. Looks to be in great shape. Stay safe and enjoy.

[@paulahatch9955]

Hi guys! Franks magnificent! I can’t wait to see you transform him over the years to come...I’ll still be watching you from south London , much love to you both take care xx❤️

[@luke125]

Emma is looking absolutely ravishing as always. Congratulations on the new van guys!

[@TravelBeans]

Thanks

[@ryanh4889]

Nice van! I would recommend replacing the coach/leisure battery with a Battleborn Lifepo4 battery. Then add solar panels on the front of the roof. It looks like 2 x 150 watt panels would fit. Along with a good solar mppt controller, battery monitor, and inverter so that home style fridge could be left on all the time. There is a youtube channel called rv prepper wayne that might be able to help you out. Safe travels!

[@jetsetjourneysofficial]

they are sponsored by jackory

[@fj1100mark]

Hopefully when you’ve got a new battery and solo perhaps they stand really easy microwave will be usable with an inverter

[@alfamaize]

There are other good options for LiFePO4 batteries- I subscribe to DIY Solar Power with Will Prose- and he reviews batteries on a very regular basis. But if you do change, you will need to get a DC-DC converter to make sure the charge voltage is correct. Given that it seems that you have a compressor fridge, getting the updated battery would be a great thing.

[@banzaipinball]

Like the van, lots for you to upgrade and make it your own. Good luck

[@Contemplationsinnature]

Congratulations guys - Frank looks amazing - retro vans have so much more character than modern ones ! Looking forward to watching the adventures to come in your new US home !

[@TravelBeans]

We love the character compared to the modern ones as well. I know it means it will come with more problems but you have to spend your money on something I guess 😅

[@philgreenough9730]

Thanks for the van tour guys, but please, for the love of God, keep your excellent diction, Emma and stop using Americanisms like bunch and awesome. I've never seen a "thrift" store anywhere in the UK. 😁😁

[@littleoneofmany]

Love frank & of course the beans!! Can not wait to watch the adventures y'all get into with him!!

[@kathyc6698]

Great find! Love the layout, and the downstairs bed is so easy to fix everyday. Enjoy the us and Welcome!

[@LeisureBit]

Awesome van and amazing idea to do it - love that bed back cushion and how it makes so easily into a bed. Microwave, essential 😀 you’re going to love your adventures in Frank - all the best, David & Rachel 👍

[@davewarren401]

Brilliant!! I wouldn’t change anything keep Frank as he was built!!

[@SarahsAtticOfTreasures]

I really can't believe how well maintained everything else. That dash for one. Love love it.

[@danofiremano]

I would get rid of the upper bunk mattress & fix that slide in place to make extra storage. Next, take out that toilet & convert the black tank to a second gray tank and add a composting toilet. I'd also take out the tub to make room for the new toilet so there would be an open "hallway" to the outdoors! Other than that, I really like Frank and hope he treats you well over the years!

[@walesu.k.2108]

This Van is So Retro! It’s Epic! ❤️✌🏻Such a lovely Couple ☺️

[@Chillaxing113]

So excited for y'all and your new home here in the USA! Frank is going take y'all on some excellent adventures. I can't wait to hear all about them. 🚘

[@amandamoon9]

Love it! Can’t wait to see where you guys go! I hope in your travels someday you venture up the coast of Maine - the norther part is so beautiful and is where we venture to every summer.

[@kaitlyndobson3281]

Makes me so sad. This came up on my feed after seeing the fire one. Rip Frank. So glade yall are ok.

[@vickytroyer5111]

I love watching you guys so much, I can't wait to watch you as you are traveling.

[@lisaangell8702]

Love Frank and that bed design it is genius we watched it several times 😀 Your plan is the best, fix air conditioning, deep clean and then get on the road. We wanted so many things that weren’t used and discovered so many more when we were out and about - so excited to see your adventures.

[@salanicus]

We're so impressed with the deal you guys got with this wonderful van. It's literally one of if not the best preserved (not restored) camper vans we've seen. Sure you'll have upgrades, improvements and fixes but Wow, it's way cheaper than doing a build out like we're doing. Really excited for you all:) Best Wishes and Blessings, James and Kim ❤️

[@Bel-ej9go]

Ah, lovely retro van. Everything you need. Reminds me of a caramac bar. Safe travels x

[@davidevans4089]

Nice van, hope it serves you well over many years. Good luck with your travels.

[@lesliesnowdon8490]

The toaster/coffee maker is sold for dorms. It's easy to hide in dorms where appliances aren't allowed. The strap on the fridge is so it stays closed while you drive.

[@kenandcoreen7179]

Frank looks great. You guys will be able to make it nice and cozy, and functional with your own touches. There really is more room in it then I expected.

[@rondamon8004]

Lots of possibilities in that van....I think it's perfect. Came out when I was a teenager back in the good old 80s. Hope you enjoy it very much...!!!!!

[@dorothynichols8901]

This van brought back memories as my parents had one. Their's was painted blue. Mother was on the loo one day when dad opened the back door :) They went to Alaska one summer and Maine another summer. They had a blast in the van !

[@jimm3756]

Wow that's a nice camper. It's in really good shape. Have fun traveling in it.

[@ColinBarrett001]

Great van Beans! Love it. Sure, it's a little dated, but its originality is all part of it's charm. Happy travels!

[@shawneeswanson3819]

Happy travels. There are lots of great things to see in our country. Have fun making memories.

[@livinglikarockstar]

Franks looks great! Once on your first trip you'll quickly understand why there's two fuel tanks. Frank is either power by a 5.0 or more likely the might 5.8 liter 351 Windsor engine. Hauling that type of load with only a 3 speed automatic transmission with no overdrive will afford you approx 8-13 miles per gallon as they say here in the states, you can do the metric conversation yourself:). Join a fuel club, costco or shop groceries at kroger for discounts on fuel, you'll need all the help you can get! But no sweat just save like crazy and happy trails!

[@bcole3442]

7.5 L - 460 Cubic Inch

[@2Travelis2Live]

Wow! You can have all sorts of bambinos. It's really nice. The endless adventure will enjoy the loft accommodations.

[@SKSK-rz7br]

I absolutely love your van ... i run a 1990 VW T25 Westfalia back here in the UK which i love ... but i have to say i really do love yours .. having a shower, hot water,air con .. and as for the retro styling - just wow

[@welloilbeefhooked4984]

Is that the T3 shape??? Love the older VW vans, Id love to own one but worry about long journeys as we like to travel to Europe from the UK and id stress if anything breaks, Ive just sold my T5,1 and got to wait 12 months until my new T6.1 arrives, killing me not having a van at the moment.

[@GerardPalmeri]

I'd recommend you get bug nets to cover the openings over both sets of double doors. You may have seen other vanlifers with these black nets that connect via magnets. You'll probably encounter a lot of flying bugs on your travels.

[@veeemit9719]

Can’t wait to see your road trip!