Buying an alphard - advice

[Kerryn]

If I was to go down the route of buying one from importer how do I choose which to use? I'm near Cambridge and don't really want to travel much more than 2 hours. There are lots in London but many won't have experience of alphards. Are there any recommended ones?

 

Pipsyp, you mentioned Stuart Spencer autos. They don't have anything suitable at the moment but do have alphards in stock. What made you choose them?

[Rojie]

28 minutes ago, Kerryn said:

If I was to go down the route of buying one from importer how do I choose which to use? I'm near Cambridge and don't really want to travel much more than 2 hours. There are lots in London but many won't have experience of alphards. Are there any recommended ones?

 

Pipsyp, you mentioned Stuart Spencer autos. They don't have anything suitable at the moment but do have alphards in stock. What made you choose them?

 

Picasso also recommends Stuart Spencer as his Alphie was bought there.

[Rojie]

15 hours ago, Kerryn said:

Thanks for the input Rojie.

 

23k is to have one imported and then converted to our spec which is obviously going to be top money.

 

The problem with getting one already converted is with wanting a rear kitchen and 3.0 there are very few we would be interested in.

 

I have been in contact with Northstar. They haven't given an exact quote yet but it looks to be comfortably less than 9k which brings it all in at a price I would be happy with. I am also excited at the prospect of having it taylor converted.

 

It will be my main car and we will hopefully use it lots for 8 plus years so I need to make sure I make the right decisions now!

 

North Star are one of the best companies, just a little awkward to get to.

[Rojie]

15 hours ago, pipsyp said:

Ooooh another point....Insurance.

 

These things aren't the cheapest to insure anyway.  Converted it's definitely more of a challenge.  Less companies are interested in covering them and many that will want quite a premium.  You may find you end up having to go with someone that specialises in camper van conversions to get a more reasonable premium.

 

I agree with this also.

 

Another definite line of enquiry, preferably well in advance before you buy (which makes getting a quote even more difficult). 

[Rojie]

You may wish to view the recent YouTube video posted by Cuttothechase, a member of the Forum but not under that name, about Scams.

 

Imho, worth watching as it raises everyones' awareness of the 'traps'.

[Kerryn]

Thanks Rojie, will do.

 

Insurance wise I haven't yet but as I know I want one whatever the cost I was just going to sort it after. I will check first though just in case getting quotes proves difficult.

 

I have now come full circle and am look at new acre cars. They have two in I would be interested in within budget. Has anyone on here had experience of them? I've seen their name come up a few times and there reviews read very well.

[pipsyp]

I've so far had a good experience with JustKampers Insurance for what it's worth.

 

They are just a brokerage (think it's Sterling underneath the facade), they also wanted lots of info upfront that most insurers don't ask for, a bit irritating but was worthwhile for the cost.  I think my van is insured with Aviva.  Premium is more than I expected but far more reasonable than most, though you'll also find the moment you go for higher mileage cover the premiums go up exponentially.  I tested the water by requesting a quote to up the mileage by 2k pa to see what'd happen and the premium was to increase by about 150 quid a year.  Will see how they are come renewal time.

 

If you try the price comparison sites you'll probably laugh out loud at 1. The prices quoted and 2. The number of companies that will provide a quote (probably only a couple).

[Rojie]

3 hours ago, Kerryn said:

Thanks Rojie, will do.

 

Insurance wise I haven't yet but as I know I want one whatever the cost I was just going to sort it after. I will check first though just in case getting quotes proves difficult.

 

I have now come full circle and am look at new acre cars. They have two in I would be interested in within budget. Has anyone on here had experience of them? I've seen their name come up a few times and there reviews read very well.

 

Getting insurance for your vehicle should be quite easy; if a little more expensive than you would like.

 

It is post conversion that the issues can occur.

 

I was with Aviva, and very satisfied, until I had the rear conversion ! They asked me to find another insurer. which I did quite easily.

 

Have you identified your convertor yet ? Go speak with them. Get some tips.

 

Most convertors get to see a vehicle in the raw; in all the spaces that cannot be inspected before purchase.

 

Having said that, my convertor who has converted many a vehicle; has only once had to refuse a conversion due to the condition of the vehicle.

 

Getting quotes on line for an Alphie is time consuming.

You will need to phone the target companies; even more so with a conversion.

 

Be reassured though. pick the right vehicle, and the right convertor and you will enjoy your motoring like never before.

 

Me. I would go for a Gen 1 facelift V6 (which I did). They have an extra gear compared to the 2.4 and the earlier V6.

 

What are you finding so difficult finding a suitable V6 for conversion ?

 

 

[Kerryn]

I've now had a quote back from Northstar and it quite quickly mounts up. With all the effort sourcing a base car and then getting it to them for several days I'm not sure it is the best option.

 

I have found this which is 2h ish away and to my untrained eyes looks pretty good.

 

http://newacrecars.com/vehicle/toyota-alphard-camper-conversion-3-0-mz-high-spec-10-2005-5-seats-high-grade-52000-miles-number-w11-925/

 

I will try to ring them tomorrow but my main questions will be:

 

Ulez?

Does the pop top have bed boards?

The rear looks a little grimy under the v6 sign

Is LPG, or is the sign just for the oven gas?

 

Any thought that any of you have on it are very welcome.

Edited October 29, 2023 by Kerryn

[Torq2u]

Paul at Newacre cars has a good reputation in my experience for supplying good motors and providing support post sale. I'd recommend a visit and chat with Paul. It's worth the drive to Evesham!

[Rojie]

3 hours ago, Kerryn said:

I've now had a quote back from Northstar and it quite quickly mounts up. With all the effort sourcing a base car and then getting it to them for several days I'm not sure it is the best option.

 

I have found this which is 2h ish away and to my untrained eyes looks pretty good.

 

http://newacrecars.com/vehicle/toyota-alphard-camper-conversion-3-0-mz-high-spec-10-2005-5-seats-high-grade-52000-miles-number-w11-925/

 

I will try to ring them tomorrow but my main questions will be:

 

Ulez?

Does the pop top have bed boards?

The rear looks a little grimy under the v6 sign

Is LPG, or is the sign just for the oven gas?

 

Any thought that any of you have on it are very welcome.

 

Me again.

 

This is an interesting one.

 

New Acre, by reputation, is one of the better vendors.

I am trying to see if the gear gate supports a 5 speed. Judging by the manufactured date, it should.

(Downloads from the site a very slow !).

 

It would appear the machine has been 'off the road' for quite some time.

I feel sure there will be a very good reason for this, but I would want to hear it.

There is a missing MOT; and the kilometre difference between the 2 MOTs is only 1km !

Be sure the odometer is in miles or kilometres. MOT stations sometimes get it incorrect on imports.

Check the AUCTION Sheet. The Auction Sheet will identify mileage, all dents and dings, repairs, and the classification the inspector gave to the vehicle.

 

The tail gate could use a more thorough clean.

If that is the only overlooked grime, I would not care. Toothbrush needed.

Good places to look for cleanliness are around the shutting surfaces of the sliding doors.

 

The MZ is almost top of the range, so will have plenty of 'bells and whistles'.

Check they all work properly, and be sure to understand any warranty given.

 

I'll try and check the photos again.

 

Based on the photos, if I were looking for an Alphie camper, I would be very interested in this one.

I would certainly recommend you visit Evesham to view asap.

 

I doubt it has LPG, although I don't see a gas canister (or gas hook up) there is enough room for one.

I think the sticker is for the gas for the hob.

 

There seems to be a (blue) cooler too, although access will be interesting

 

The gearbox is a 5 speed, which to me, is important.

 

AND a bonus not mentioned in the description; I would expect those middle seats to rotate.

A very useful feature at meal times.

 

The only negative I see, and it is tiny, is the size of the fresh water and grey water 'tanks'.

[dezufo]

It does not have LPG, the sticker is for the gas bottle that would fit in the cupboard under the hob, The blue container is the freshwater tank it has a 12v pump for the tap. The middle row seat do swivel in that model/year, New Acre fit an electronic chip to convert the speed/odometr signals to mph/miles they issue paper work stating the original km reading before the chip is fitted, They also issue an auction sheet and afaik a CarVX report

[Kerryn]

Thank you both.

 

I tried to ring today but was too late, I will try to find time at work tomorrow.

 

Rojie how do you know it's a 5 speed? On the dash it only say 1,2,3,4.

 

I would rather it doesn't have LPG, it's a complication I don't want as I'm not too fussed about mpg. Why does it have an LPG sticker though for cannister gas?

 

Don't all of the 8 seaters, ie 3 seats in the middle row, rotate as that's how the bed is made?

[Kerryn]

Also do any of you know if it would be ULEZ? I have read conflicting information about this.

[Rojie]

13 hours ago, Kerryn said:

Also do any of you know if it would be ULEZ? I have read conflicting information about this.

 

Hello Kerryn,

 

I have checked your vehicle on the TfL site (Transport for London), as anyone can.

 

The good news is the site recognises the vehicle, the bad news is it does not confirm the vehicle to be compliant.

 

That, in itself, does not mean it isn't compliant BUT ....  it could be a problem.

(Several members have reported issues with ULEZ and TfL. Much reading required).

 

Discuss this with NewAcre. It is very important that you know whether it is or isn't.

Any reassurance you get (anywhere) needs to be recognised by TfL (and possibly the DVLA).

 

'Non compliant' vehicles (that are compliant) can be 'certified' as compliant; but often it is a very onerous task.

Maybe one NewAcre could perform prior to sale !

 

The age of your vehicle manufacture implies it is a Gen 1 facelifted model, as it was made in October 2005.

After checking, all the Gen 1 V6 models came with a five speed auto 

Both the gear lever and the instrument cluster inform what gear the vehicle is in.

D4, D3, etc. D (on its own) is fifth gear on your model.

 

It was the early 4 cylinder cars that had the four speed.

 

If you buy, when you buy, do not drive around in D4 unless you need to, fuel consumption will rocket.

 

Most LPG installations are in the spare wheel well. So you can look for the tank.

 

I believe motorhomes must display an LPG if they carry gas cannisters.

A far as I am aware, camper conversions do not.

But it is advisable to.

 

I don't have an eight seater. I had thought the bed could be used with those seats facing either way.

I am probably wrong on this point.

It may depend on which end of the bed space you wish to have as the head end.

 

Don't be put off.

 

The ULEZ thing is very important, imho, the other issues aren't

 

 

[Kerryn]

Thank you Rojie.

 

I have spoken to them and it is either ulez or they can apply for certificate to make it definitely ulez, it costs around £300 apparently.

 

They have confirmed, as you say, it is 5 speed. Fifth gear being called D rather D5 is confusing!

 

It doesn't have LPG, you are correct it is to warn of the gas on board in case of an accident.

 

The standard way of making the bed is to rotate the middle seats, drop them, and then that and the rear kitchen makes the bed. I don't know if you can do it without rotating them but the 8 seaters definitely always rotate. As you say, very useful when using the table. That is what attracted us to this layout and alphards in the first place! I grew up with espaces as my childhood car which have rotating seats. I don't know more cars don't offer it really!

 

I have reserved it and will hopefully view it at the weekend. Fingers crossed it is a good one and that I can make a purchase!

[Rojie]

18 hours ago, Kerryn said:

Thank you Rojie.

 

I have spoken to them and it is either ulez or they can apply for certificate to make it definitely ulez, it costs around £300 apparently.

 

They have confirmed, as you say, it is 5 speed. Fifth gear being called D rather D5 is confusing!

 

It doesn't have LPG, you are correct it is to warn of the gas on board in case of an accident.

 

The standard way of making the bed is to rotate the middle seats, drop them, and then that and the rear kitchen makes the bed. I don't know if you can do it without rotating them but the 8 seaters definitely always rotate. As you say, very useful when using the table. That is what attracted us to this layout and alphards in the first place! I grew up with espaces as my childhood car which have rotating seats. I don't know more cars don't offer it really!

 

I have reserved it and will hopefully view it at the weekend. Fingers crossed it is a good one and that I can make a purchase!

 

You are proceeding with Due Diligence.

 

IMHO, it is ULEZ compliant, but it needs to be officially recognised as such.

You would even hasve some spare change from your original budget to pay for the Certificate ( if NewAcre won't).

 

Bon Voyage, and Happy Camparding.

 

ps. Let us all know how you get on.

[Kerryn]

They will get the certificate for me as part of the sale so that all sorted.

 

The next hurdle (hopefully the last!) is that it has a cool box but we want a fridge. Unfortunately that means quite a lot of reworking of the cabinet, changing the electrics and the hob/sink. Hopefully it won't cost too much, it's perfect for us otherwise are keen to get it now.

 

A couple of question for any camper owners, is there a kettle you can get that works well? How have you found using the hob/sink?

[pipsyp]

3 hours ago, Kerryn said:

They will get the certificate for me as part of the sale so that all sorted.

 

The next hurdle (hopefully the last!) is that it has a cool box but we want a fridge. Unfortunately that means quite a lot of reworking of the cabinet, changing the electrics and the hob/sink. Hopefully it won't cost too much, it's perfect for us otherwise are keen to get it now.

 

A couple of question for any camper owners, is there a kettle you can get that works well? How have you found using the hob/sink?

Not sure on kettle, ours has 240v but only works when hooked up.  On that basis any kettle ought to do really.

 

Sink, haven't really ever used it TBH.  One thing I do like about ours is that it drains straight out rather than into a grey water tank.  People I bought it off opted to have it converted that way as having researched with others they know with campers the resounding feedback was if you aren't remotely sensible with what you put down there it can get smelly.  Think of it what you will but I too prefer the idea of not gathering grey water (it's hardly toilet waste after all).

 

Hob wise, naturally it's propane and you really have to have the tailgate up to cook, so depending on the weather conditions it can take quite a while to a long time to cook stuff.  Being used to mains gas at home you can very much tell the difference!  We used to holiday in a remote part of Portugal (family used to have a house there) and most houses have propane for cooking and hot water....trying to cook a roast dinner one Christmas in a propane powered oven was a very interesting affair!

 

 

 

 

[Kerryn]

Interesting to hear pipsyp.

 

I am aware that we may not use some of it however would rather have it still just in case.

 

Is there not a slow kettle you can get that would work off the leisure battery or would it still draw too much power?

 

The sink I guess is mainly just a convenient way of carry water for making drinks etc. If we were to wash it would hopefully be emptied straight out.

 

Where does yours drain to, onto the floor?

 

We have done a bit camping with camping stove and camping gas so aren't expecting anything spectacular! Just the ability to pasta and make toast etc.. then again could a toaster work off the battery?

 

 

[Kerryn]

I now realise that kettles and toasters are not going to work! We use a small stove when camping so are happy to use the gas.

[Rojie]

On 11/2/2023 at 10:29 PM, Kerryn said:

I now realise that kettles and toasters are not going to work! We use a small stove when camping so are happy to use the gas.

 

An electric kettle will work if you have an EHU and are parked at a suitable pitch.

We carry a fan heater for use "on site".

A Jackery may work, but I don't have one so an untested idea; but they are expensive and take valuable space.

 

Your gas hob will boil a kettle, or two if you have a dual unit.

Use a thin bottomed kettle. they don't last long, and you need to check the bottom before each time you use it.

 

There are pans that will do toast, can't remember the brand atm (something Monkey) but the van will have an aroma for quite a while !

You can toast over a gas hob, difficult but not much fun.

 

As I said in my PM, you need to plan how you use your space carefully !

 

Grey water should be caught in a vessel of some kind, and not drained "roadside".

 

When do you visit Evesham ?

[Kerryn]

Useful tips, thanks.

 

It's a single hob as the fridge will be a top loading one but that's fine for us I think, we will just have to plan round it.

 

We haven't got a date yet but hopefully in the next couple of weeks. I will keep thread updated all the way through.

[pipsyp]

On 11/2/2023 at 9:40 PM, Kerryn said:

Interesting to hear pipsyp.

 

I am aware that we may not use some of it however would rather have it still just in case.

 

Is there not a slow kettle you can get that would work off the leisure battery or would it still draw too much power?

 

The sink I guess is mainly just a convenient way of carry water for making drinks etc. If we were to wash it would hopefully be emptied straight out.

 

Where does yours drain to, onto the floor?

 

We have done a bit camping with camping stove and camping gas so aren't expecting anything spectacular! Just the ability to pasta and make toast etc.. then again could a toaster work off the battery?

 

 

As Rojie said in his post, if you have mains/EHU on the van then use of any old kettle/toaster will be fine.  I think my mains has a 20A breaker on it, so would have to be doing quite alot at once to get it to trip.  I don't think there's anything of that ilk that'll run off 12v.  I don't think I'd go to the trouble of having a conversion done that didn't make provision for mains TBH.  Something I don't like about mine is that it only has split relay charging for the leisure battery (so only charges on the move) and the battery/12v services don't charge or work off the mains hook up as it doesn't have a charger installed.  Is something I am going to sort at some point, as we've found the 12v fridge freezer will only run for about a day on battery before it stops.

 

Yes, technically the sink does drain straight out.  Certainly we're not heathens (😂) so if we were going to waste anything more substantial/unpleasant in the sink than a small amount of run off/washing up water then absolutely would use something to catch it and dispose of it as needed.  It's of course a common sense approach.

 

The nice thing however is at no point do you have that stuff retained in the van, or face the situation where the grey waste backs up and overflows as it physically can't happen.  I'd have lived with a grey waste bottle if it had one, but I like it without.

 

 

 

 

 

Edited November 4, 2023 by pipsyp

[Kerryn]

Ok, I didn't pick that up from Rojie post. So if hooked up the plugs work as mains? So a kettle/toaster/hair dryer will work as normal?

 

Oh I see, so the fridge doesn't charge from hook up, only the leisure battery? And the leisure battery won't charge up either?

 

I might enquire about ours to see how that works.

 

Ok, thanks for clarifying on the water. I think what I will try to do is empty it really regularly. Surely though if the two tanks are the same size it's not possible for the grey one to overfill? I think we mainly use it for fill up drinks and washing hands so not much would go into the tank and if emptied regularly it shouldn't smell.

 

Another question for those with camper conversions, what are your top purchases? Currently I am thinking of getting:

A windscreen cover

A drive away awning (use tool magnets to attach as suggested on here?)

Soft bag suitcase set, one colour per person

Levelling ramps

 

Our plan is to use it as a day van over the winter and slowly add bits that we need. Any tips are very welcome though! I've tried to find a blog (do they even exist anymore?!) or website where someone documents their alphard travels but haven't had any luck.