Chris Dempsey

I thought it was just me with my size 13 work boots, but when I test-drove the Promaster, I tripped every time I got in or out. The first couple of times, I thought maybe I was the awkward one, but I soon realized it was the Ram. It's not "quirky", it's poorly designed. Very happy I bought the NV.

Thanks, Rick. I just built the cabinets and am starting on the van's electrical soon. Hopefully, will have the electrical up and running in a couple of weeks and will be able to report back.

Thanks for the input, but ended up with the Trpplite 2000W inverter. Seems to be a crap-shoot with inverters; I couldn't find one that had either consistently good reviews or enough reviews to be reliable. Time will tell.

Dustin- Can't really help you with the MPG numbers, as I have new 6-cylinder that I've only filled up twice; not enough for any real numbers. I can tell you why I went with the Nissan, though. It was basically a process of elimination. I didnt even look at the Mercedes because of the price and that I only drive 10-12K a year. The diesel might make more economic sense if you put on a lot of miles. Looked at the Dodge Promaster- too "quirky" and just felt uncomfortable. I liked the Ford Transit, but it's a first-year model, in the U.S. anyway, and was significantly more expensive. What really tipped the scales for me was the 5 year, 100K warranty, the pickup-style platform and the ergonomics and comfort of the cabin. Ive had mine for about a month and really like it. Others on this site have had issues with the sonar, steering, etc. in previous year models. I've had none of those problems with my 2014 Cargo Hi-top. Either Nissan has addressed them or I got lucky. The only issue I've had is the voice-recognition, which worked well initially, seems to no longer recognize English. I haven't taken it in for a fix, so can't comment on the severity of the problem. I was wondering about the wind-loading myself. I've driven in fairly windy conditions - 20-25 mph ( about 40 kph for you ) in fairly open country and was surprised That I wasn't blown around more. Certainly more than my old E-250, but nothing that I couldn't easily correct. Good luck and if you have any questions, let me know. Chris

Thanks, Mr. Olaf. I did everything I could think of to prevent future rust: I filed the hole smooth, cleaned it with denatured alcohol, double-primed and painted it. My old E-250 had holes everywhere from the up fitters- not a single one was painted, they couldn't even be bothered to use a rubber washer. I did check Amazonwith varying success. Some folks one-star products because of shipping damage; doesn't really reflect on the product. I think I'm going to go with the 2K Tripplite.

Thanks for the feedback, I appreciate it.] Chris

Hey - Bought my NV a few weeks ago and finally was able to do something today. I very nervously cut a 2 3/4" hole through the side of the van. I then plugged it with a 30A inlet to power the eventual inverter and charge the eventual batteries. Ultimately, I will be turning my NV into a mobile showroom and very basic cabinet shop. I have two questions: although I've learned a tremendous amount from this site, among others, I'm still unsure of what brand of inverter to purchase. I'm fairly certain I will be buying a 2K watt pure sine inverter and am considering Tripp-lite and Xantrex. Anyone out there feel strongly for or against, or have a recommendation? Also, probably going with sealed AGM batteries, but am open to any input. Last- I know it's three things now- I'm considering documenting this conversion from beginning to end; are you folks interested? If so, is there a preference for video over photos or is that unimportant? Thanks and I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Chris

Hey all- I ended up purchasing a 2014 NV2500 SV with the factory Nav/Bluetooth and am glad I chose the factory unit. Since my previous vehicle, an E-250, and my wife's car, a 2005 Honda CR-V don't have any "newfangled" technology, I didn't realize what I was missing. I really appreciate all the features of this technology- especially the Navigation. I have no idea how I ever found my way before! Since I haven't had much experience with this technology, I can't make a head-to-head comparison between systems and I kno w there are aftermarket systems that have the same functionality, but as Chris says above, the seamless fit and finish along with factory warranty go a long way towards justifying the price.

That is civilized! And The Viking Princess hands you a hot cup of coffee: perfect.

Thanks, Dennis. By the way, I've decided to set up my electrical independent of the NVs, like yours. Do you find 1250 watts to be enough capacity from your inverter?

I just bought a NV2500 Hi-roof and removed the protective panels from the cargo area. I know it's a long shot, but if anyone in the Detroit area wants them and most of the clips,let me know. Hate to throw them out if, on the off chance, someone local wants them.

Dennis- it looks like you have a Fantastic fan installed? Did it fit between the roof supports? Also, how did you seal the roof where the ribs are? Thanks. Chris

Hey Bobby- did you but one or are you still considering? I just bought a 2500 and have driven it in light snow and it was fine; in fact", the traction control wouldn't let me slide the back end out. I live just outside of Detroit..

Hey Chris- as I mentioned in another post, my #1 reason for buying my NV2500 HTop: 1) warranty 2) warranty 3) cab layout (ergonomics/comfort) 4) price The fact that I live in metro Detroit made it difficult to buy a "Japanese" vehicle. While vandalism of foreign cars doesn't happen here anymore, some will still give you side-eyes if you drive foreign. In fact, the first client of mine to see the van said, with resignation, "oh, you got the Nissan". I told him I tried to buy the Dodge -proudly made in Mexico- but would have been a fool to not buy the Made in America Nissan. So, Chris, do you have any idea what the US part content is on the Nissan And/or Transit and Promaster. I'd love to be able to respond intelleligently to those who think there's such a thing as an "American" car anymore.

Great idea- looks really good. I'm getting my 2500 today. I'm going to use it as a mobile workshop / showroom. What are you doing for power and heat?

Thanks for the input, Chris.

Warranty

When I heard about the extended warranty, I stopped looking at the competition. Should be getting mine very soon.

Looks great- what type of wood did you "side" it with?

Hey all- I'm hoping to get some advice. I'll be purchasing an NV2500 SV high-roof within the next week or so. My question: should I get the Nav/Bluetooth option, or do something aftermarket? Also, does anyone know if the 5-year/100K bumper-to-bumper applies to the 2013 NV? Thanks, Chris