I think you're right to take your time Anne. If you are interested in an Alphard you might want to take a look at a company called "Wheelquick" as they are in Wigan, not too far from you and are highly regarded I believe. I've never dealt with them myself but the folks on the Bongo forum seem to rate them highly.
I had a Bongo for ten years and it was also my everyday vehicle. I felt it was perfect as a campervan and a car, just the height could be occasionally a problem on height restricted car parks.
As a family of four it suited us, and we had some amazing holidays in it. I personally didn't think it was too small, in fact I liked the fact it was the size it was; cheap for ferries, easy to park, masses of storage space and seven seats.
In ten years it never broke down and I wouldn't hesitate to jump in it and go anywhere, it was a dream to drive.
I sold it because the kids had outgrown it and we hadn't camped in it for a couple of years. It also needed some TLC as the wheel arches were suffering with rust (something to look out for on Bongos, they are getting on!).
Never had any issues with running it, it was cheap to maintain and there are plenty of spares about. It didn't owe me anything; bought it for £5000, and managed to sell it 10 years later (at 21 years old) with no MOT and serious rust issues for £1000, someone had a bargain first campervan!
I loved my Bongo. It wasn't converted, just an 8 seater, but it was my everyday car. I bought it mainly because it doubled as a van for carrying all sorts of stuff for various jobs that I did. 4WD diesel automatic, and a dream to drive. I had it for 5 years without any problems, and would have had it much longer if someone hadn't stolen it from outside my house! It was never traced, and I'm convinced it was stolen to order. Either to strip for parts or to export, as several went from this area in a short period of time, and none were ever found.
Quote: Originally posted by Colin21 on 24/4/2019
I loved my Bongo. It wasn't converted, just an 8 seater, but it was my everyday car. I bought it mainly because it doubled as a van for carrying all sorts of stuff for various jobs that I did. 4WD diesel automatic, and a dream to drive. I had it for 5 years without any problems, and would have had it much longer if someone hadn't stolen it from outside my house! It was never traced, and I'm convinced it was stolen to order. Either to strip for parts or to export, as several went from this area in a short period of time, and none were ever found.
I had mine broken into once, but luckily it had a very loud alarm which sent them scattering! I was gutted though, they bent the door out with a crowbar. The hire car replacement was a complete disappointment!
Thanks everyone! I am still thinking, so hard to decide what to do for the best. Does anyone know the link to the Toyota campervan owners forum? I joined last year but have lost the link as bought a new computer!! Thanks
Not sure if you mean the alphard forum on faceboook Anne? There are 2. If you just go on facebook and type toyota alphard club you will get to the one I use. Hope that helps.
A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Changing Camper Van
via mobile 23/4/2019 at 7:40pm
